Rico Dowdle had the best performance by a Cowboys RB in over a year

The Dallas Cowboys have been waiting for a performance like this for a long time.

Oct 6, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Rico Dowdle (23) runs the ball against Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Payton Wilson (rear) during the fourth quarter at Acrisure Stadium. / Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Running the ball has been very tough for the Dallas Cowboys, which is why it was so encouraging to see Rico Dowdle have a breakout performance in their win over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday Night Football.

Dowdle ran for 87 yards on 20 attempts, which was the best output the team has had this season. While their struggles in 2024 have been well-documented due to their inactivity at the position, Dowdle's performance might have ended a streak that goes back more than a calendar year.

The last time a running back managed at least 87 yards in a game was in Week 3 of the 2023 season when Tony Pollard went for 122 yards against the Arizona Cardinals.

MORE: 4 takeaways from Dallas Cowboys massive Week 5 win over Steelers

Dallas Cowboys running back Rico Dowdle had 87 yards rushing for the team on Sunday night in Pittsburgh.

It was the first time a Cowboys running back reached at least 87 yards since Tony Pollard in Week 3 of 2023.

It had been over an entire year.

(via @Stathead, @pfref)

— RJ Ochoa (@rjochoa) October 7, 2024

For Dowdle, who also had 27 yards and a touchdown through the air, it was the best performance of his career. Hopefully, it leads to a more balanced attack on offense since Dallas has been reluctant to stick with the run all year.

MORE: Cowboys' top plays & highlights vs. Steelers on Week 5 SNF

After five games, Dowdle now has 221 yards on 54 attempts. He has yet to score on a rushing attempt but does have 11 receptions for 101 yards with two touchdowns. He's asserted himself as the RB1 and should continue to be fed.

— Enjoy free coverage of the Cowboys from Dallas Cowboys on SI —

4 takeaways from Dallas Cowboys massive Week 5 win over Steelers

4 winners & 3 losers in Cowboys Week 5: Jalen Tolbert hauls in game-winner

​​Cowboys' top plays & highlights vs. Steelers on Week 5 SNF

4 pass rushers Cowboys can sign to fill in for Marshawn Kneeland

Dallas Cowboys vs. Pittsburgh Steelers: Week 5 Player of the Game

Meet Kelly Villares: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Rookie