Cowboys: Tony Pollard expected to play vs Panthers after birth of first child

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In the first three games of the 2021 season, the Dallas Cowboys have used more of a two-back attack with Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard. Elliott’s grinding type of running style coupled with Pollard’s explosive ability has worked wonders as the Cowboys are currently fourth in the NFL at 139 yards rushing per game.

Pollard missed Thursday’s practice but fortunately, it was for personal reasons and not due to an injury. According to NFL Network’s Jane Slater, Pollard was absent because of the birth of his first child, a daughter. However, he is expected to play this Sunday against the Carolina Panthers.

I’m told #Cowboys RB Tony Pollard’s absence at practice Thursday was because of the birth of a child. A little girl! Congrats! He’s expected to play this weekend #girldad

— Jane Slater (@SlaterNFL) October 1, 2021

After just 14 yards on three carries in the season opener, Pollard has been excellent running the football this season. In the Cowboys’ 20-17 win against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 2, Pollard was the driving force in the running game with 109 yards on 13 carries. Although Elliott lead the way with 95 yards against the Philadelphia Eagles this past Monday, Pollard contributed another 60 yards on 11 carries.

Pollard has gained first downs or scored a touchdown on 41% of his carries so far this season which is the highest rate for all running backs according to Pro Football Focus. Also, his 7.4 yards per rush on first down is second in the NFL through the first three weeks.

It’ll be interesting to see if the Cowboys will attack the Panthers’ top-ranked rush defense with Elliott’s power or Pollard’s speed. Whatever the case may be, having Pollard to complement Elliott will be big in this game as well as every game the Cowboys play this season.