The Dallas Cowboys were without a number of key players in Thursday's overtime loss to the Las Vegas Raiders.
Based on a report from ESPN's Ed Werder, it's possible that they could be without another next week.
Source: #Cowboys will consider providing running back Ezekiel Elliott time off to heal from the knee injury he’s been managing, including the possibility of holding him out of next Thursday night’s game in New Orleans, according to a source. IR not believed a consideration
— Ed Werder (@WerderEdESPN) November 26, 2021
Fortunately for the Cowboys, Tony Pollard is arguably the league's best backup running back and can be as (if not more) effective as Ezekiel Elliott if Zeke's out in Week 13 (and longer).
Pollard is averaging 5.3 yards per carry and 8.8 yards per reception compared to 4.5 and 6.0, respectively, for Elliott. Pollard has averaged double-digit touches (11.72) this season, but he'll go from being a flex option to a must-start in fantasy football if Elliott is indeed rested next week even though the New Orleans Saints have allowed the second-fewest fantasy points to opposing running backs this season.
More importantly for the Cowboys' offense, they should get their top two receivers -- Amari Cooper (COVID, unvaccinated) and CeeDee Lamb (concussion) -- back in Week 13.
