Explaining the Cowboy's running game:
The Cowboy's running game is currently a rubix cube of reflection. Dallas has spent all offseason reflecting on the loss of DeMarco Murray and trying to figure out how to replace his production. It appears that they have figured out a formula as they enter into training camp. Darren McFadden is entering training camp as the Cowboy's number two running back behind Joseph Randle. Randle is expected to lead the offensive ground game and with less than 150 carries in his career with the Cowboys he is hardly a sure thing. The curious thing about Randle is that he is currently averaging 7 yards a carry which is better than good. Randle is arguably the Cowboy's best option for a workhorse back, he is also pretty skilled at catching the ball out of the backfield as he averages 7 yards a reception.
McFadden on the other hand has only one 1,000 yard season under his belt with the Raiders but let's understand he ran behind the Raiders curiously, terrible, offensive line. McFadden netted 25 touchdowns in his time with the Raiders which is woefully average. McFadden however is a first round draft pick thrust into a terrible situation for a running back; running behind an offensive line that allows constant defensive penetration into the backfield. This will be the first time McFadden has had the ability to run behind a good offensive line and he's 27. The concern with McFadden is can he hold off injury long enough to produce another 1,000 yard season, the offensive line of the Cowboys will give him no more excuses.
Lance Dunbar is another intriguing prospect however his strength is in the passing game. It would not surprise me in the slightest if Dunbar was predominantly used as a third down receiving back. He can line up as a running back and as a wide receiver which will allow the Cowboys to run an offense similar to the spread. This allows the offense to match the pace of many of the Cowboy's NFC foes. The Cowboy's may have lost their hammer but may have a Swiss Army knife in their back pocket.
