Dallas Cowboys Run-Game Key: 'Best 5' 'Trending Right,' Says Tony Pollard

The Dallas Cowboys' rushing attack has been the subject of criticism, but Tony Pollard says the run game - keyed by the 'Best 5' - is starting to get its mojo going.

The Dallas Cowboys offense has been firing on nearly all cylinders, as Dak Prescott has been lighting up secondaries at an MVP-level pace - but for much of the season, the running game hasn't been what many had hoped.

With Tony Pollard taking over the lead role from the departed Ezekiel Elliott, it had been a slow climb for the Pro Bowler But after just two rushing touchdowns in the first nine games (both came in Week 1), we have seen Pollard get going over in recent weeks.

And he's feeling it, too.

“I feel like lately we've been getting the rhythm in the run game,” Pollard said. “Being efficient and everything that we've been calling, getting the most out of it, so feel like we're trending towards the right direction.”

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One thing that has been noticeable in the last two games is that Pollard is getting outside the tackles to utilize his speed and quickness.

Tony Pollard and the Cowboys running game is starting to heat up / Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

He has had runs of 14, 22, 27, and 21 yards (touchdown run vs. Carolina) as his explosiveness is starting to return.

His touchdown run against the Panthers was "vintage" Pollard as he powered through a host of defenders to reach pay dirt, not to mention his 27-yarder vs. the Commanders as he powered his way through numerous tackles.

So, what has been the key to getting the run game established?

“Just being out there with that same group over time, just growing together, learning each other's ways and tendencies," Pollard said. 

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The "same group'' Pollard refers to is in part made up ot the offensive line of Tyron Smith, Tyler Smith, Tyler Biadasz, Zack Martin and Terence Steele. All are in good form and are starting to put games together and build that consistency coach Mike McCarthy craves.

McCarthy has noted in particular that Tyron is playing as his highest level in the coach's four seasons in Dallas. CBS Sports' Tony Romo, meanwhile, recently commented that Tyler Smith has the talent to be Hall of Fame-bound. And of course, we know what All-Pro Zack Martin does regularly.

They haven't been perfect; Steele's struggles in pass protection in that loss at the Eagles still stands out. And it's not the finished product by any means. But finally, after 11 weeks, there are signs of life that the running game is starting to make its presence known, with the "Best 5" finally flexing their collective muscles.