Thursday, October 14, 2010

Jones wrestles away lead in Cowboys backfield

In quite possibly the league's most erratic backfield situation, Felix Jones has regained the lead for carries in Dallas.


Talking during their bye about how Jones would get more work beginning in Week Five, the Cowboys lived up to their promise on Sunday. While Marion Barber gained a mere 19 yards on six carries, Jones exploded for the first time in 2010, taking 15 carries for 109 and adding four receptions for 17 yards against Tennessee. The only problem? Dallas lost the game.

But it wasn't a lack of offense that cost the 'Boys this contest, as they posted a season-high 511 yards, including QB Tony Romo throwing for 406 yards and three TDs (with three interceptions). Considering how well they moved the ball, it's likely this backfield arrangement is here to stay.

What does it mean for those patient enough to hold on to Jones? Well, as one of the most explosive backs in football, he will be difficult to bench moving forward and is worthy of at least flex status in most formats. No, he probably won't run for 100 yards every week as long as Barber is cutting into his work, but the Cowboys know they have been underutilizing the third-year player and will make it a point to keep him heavily involved.

The only thing standing between Jones and a big final 12 games is his health, which has been an issue during his time as a pro.

Source: yahoo.com/sports
Author: Michael Blunda, ProFootballWeekly.com

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