Dallas Cowboys

Dallas Cowboys running back Rico Dowdle got a little extra playing time in a big Week 18 win over the Washington Commanders. Dowdle ran the ball nine times, gaining 46 yards. He was targeted four times in the passing game, making three catches for 54 yards, including a big play in which he caught a pass for a 32-yard gain. With the Cowboys fully in charge of the game, the backups got a little time to play and Dowdle made the most of it. He's a solid backup and at times this season looked better than starter Tony Pollard, but Pollard was ultimately able to fight him off and keep the Dallas depth chart as it was.

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott threw four touchdowns in a Week 18 blowout win over the Washington Commanders. Prescott attempted 36 throws, completing 31 of them for 279 yards, four touchdowns, and one interception. He did not take a sack nor did he record a rushing attempt. It was an excellent game for Prescott after a slightly slow start in the first quarter, and he was even able to take a seat toward the end of the game as backup Cooper Rush wrapped things up for the Cowboys regular season. The Cowboys will host the Green Bay Packers in the first round of the NFL playoffs next weekend.

New England Patriots running back Ezekiel Elliott rushed 13 times for 54 yards during Sunday's loss to the New York Jets. He also caught five of seven targets for an additional 27 yards through the air. The veteran running back logged yet another start with Rhamondre Stevenson (ankle) sidelined and maintained a key role as unfavorable weather conditions interrupted the passing attack. He was particularly impactful in PPR leagues where he added extra points for his five catches. He's headed for free agency where he'll likely earn a spot in a committee or split backfield.

New England Patriots running back Ezekiel Elliott will continue to operate as the lead running back for Week 18 against the New York Jets with Rhamondre Stevenson (ankle) sidelined. Elliott has produced inconsistent results on the ground this year, but his impressive pass-catching role and red-zone usage allow him to sneak into the RB2 tier for fantasy purposes. He remains a solid option this Sunday, especially with a strong Jets secondary and poor weather conditions likely prompting the Patriots to run more than pass. Fantasy managers should feel comfortable starting Elliott in most formats.

Dallas Cowboys running back Rico Dowdle (ankle) was a full participant during Friday's practice session and will be active in Week 18 against the Washington Commanders after he missed the Week 17 win over the Detroit Lions. Dowdle began the week with a limited practice session but was able to practice in full on Thursday and Friday. He figures to operate as the primary backup to Tony Pollard in the backfield in a game the Cowboys need to win to secure the NFC East title. There won't be a ton of streaming appeal here, so fantasy managers should look elsewhere for help.