Austin Ekeler has high praise for Tony Pollard

Los Angeles Chargers running back Austin Ekeler. Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

Chargers' Austin Ekeler has high praise for Cowboys RB Tony Pollard

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 11/3/22

Tony Pollard's three-touchdown performance in the Dallas Cowboys' win over the Chicago Bears last week opened the eyes of many, including Los Angeles Chargers running back Austin Ekeler's.

On his fantasy football podcast "Ekeler's Edge," Ekeler weighed in on the growing debate surrounding the Cowboys backfield and whether or not Pollard should overtake Ezekiel Elliott in the pecking order.

Ekeler said Pollard's sills are becoming "more apparent lately" now that he's receiving more touches while adding that the 25-year-old could be a starter virtually anywhere.

"I think Tony could start on most teams," Ekeler said. "If he was competing in a room, he'd probably be starting a lot of places."

The great Tony Pollard vs. Ezekiel Elliott debate.@austinekeler weighs in on what he's seen from Pollard and their split going forward.

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Looking at Pollard's numbers this season only proves Ekeler's point.

Pollard is one of four players averaging more than six yards per carry this season. Only Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (7.37) averages more than Pollard's 6.25 yards per carry heading into Week 9.

While Pollard burst onto the scene after burying the Bears for 131 yards and three touchdowns, the backup running back was already playing at a high level when given the opportunity before Week 8's breakout. Heading into last Sunday's matchup with the Bears, Pollard averaged 5.60 yards per carry, rushing for 375 yards and two touchdowns over seven games.

The Cowboys are on a bye this week, giving Elliott time to nurse a sprained knee, which kept him out of action last Sunday. When they resume their schedule on Nov. 13 against the Green Bay Packers, the Cowboys will have an interesting decision to make if Elliott is ready to go.

Earlier this week, Jerry Jones weighed in on the running back conversation, and it doesn't sound like Pollard's recent play has swayed the Cowboys owner just yet.

"We're going to go as Zeke goes, Jones said. "He's that integral to our success this year."

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