The Dallas Cowboys needed a strong offensive performance to see off the Washington Commanders on Christmas Day. Other factors were at play, but head coach Brian Schottenheimer was left thanking an unlikely hero who came through at the right time.
It seemed as if the Cowbopys could get whatever they wanted on the ground against Washington. They steamrolled their way to over 200 rushing yards on the day, seeing out the game comfortably despite a spirited effort from their hated NFC East rival. And thanks to an unfortunate Javonte Williams injury, almost half of these came courtesy of Malik Davis.
While Davis has played second-fiddle in the Cowboys’ running back room this season, he’s stayed ready. He’s patiently awaited an opportunity to showcase what he can bring to a prominent role. Williams’ injury gave him precisely that, and he delivered accordingly.
Malik Davis made a strong case for more involvement in Cowboys’ offense
Whether it was between the tackles or bouncing off the edge, Davis caught the eye whenever his number was called. The third-year pro out of Florida displayed his on-field vision and explosive elusiveness extremely well, going for 103 rushing yards off just 11 carries. He also made a case that the Cowboys can’t ignore.
Davis wants to be more involved. Williams is the top dog right now, and he’s done more than enough for another contract this season. Where that leaves his understudy is anyone’s guess. Still, an exceptional showing at Northwest Stadium did nothing to diminish calls from some sections of the media for more opportunities for the dynamic playmaker.
Time will tell on that, but the Cowboys have nothing to lose by giving Davis all he can handle in their regular-season finale against the New York Giants.
The Cowboys should be in evaluation mode. They are out of playoff contention, so those in power need to see what they have across the roster before embarking on a critical offseason for the organization. Davis staked a strong claim for more looks in Week 17, but much will also depend on Williams’ status and whether Dallas believes playing him in a meaningless contest is a risk worth taking.
Davis has had good games in the past, but nothing to this extent. Washington’s defense is abysmal against the run, which must be factored into the equation. But if the 27-year-old gets carries with the same success versus the vaunted Giants defensive front, his outlook changes completely.
And with nothing to play for other than pride, the Cowboys won’t get a better shot to see if Davis’ sensational performance surge is the start of something more.