NFL: 5 bold predictions for the Dallas Cowboys in 2018

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ARLINGTON, TX – DECEMBER 24: Ezekiel Elliott #21 of the Dallas Cowboys walks off the field after the Seattle Seahawks beat the Dallas Cowboys 21-12 at AT&T Stadium on December 24, 2017 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /

1. Ezekiel Elliott will flirt with 2,000 yards rushing

The lack of talent at receiver makes it very plain the Cowboys will need a massive season from Elliott on the ground. Expect him to get a ton of carries. That’s going to lead to a ton of yards for their former Ohio State star.

The question is whether or not Elliott can get his yards per carry average back to where it was during his rookie season. In 2016 he averaged 5.1 yards per carry, but last year that dipped a full yard to 4.1. Elliott is hoping the lack of distractions this offseason can get him back up to full speed.

The lack of receiving threats is going to work against his efficiency. Teams are going to stack the box against the Cowboys and dare their receivers to win one on one matchups. Fortunately, Dallas also sports an excellent offensive line. Elliott may not find a ton of space, but he should be able to pop some big plays against defenses crowding the line of scrimmage.

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Factor all of those things together and it’s clear to see that Elliott is going to carry the ball a ton. Look for him to have some massive individual games. He’ll be able to flirt with a 2,000 yard season, but in the end, he’s going to fall just short. It’s still going to be an exceptional year for one of the NFL’s top running backs.

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