NFL: More Likely To Bounce Back- Ezekiel Elliot or Saquon Barkley

When it comes to the NFC East, there are two names that stick out in the run game, Ezekiel Elliot and Saquon Barkley. Not only are the two big names in their division but they’re easily named as two of the best backs in the NFL. With both the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants struggling last year, which running back will have the bounce-back season in 2021?

The Case For Elliot

After struggling in 2020, the Dallas Cowboys look to be infinitely better in 2021. While Ezekiel Elliot should have a rebounding season as well, the whole team looks to benefit from the return of Dak Prescott. Not only will it take pressure off of the run game, but will add a whole new dimension to the offense. When the defense has to prepare for both weapons it tends to spread their skills thin. More misdirection and mismatches make it easier for opponents to be out of place when it comes to playing at game speed. The NFL struggled two seasons ago keeping up with the Cowboys’ fast-paced offense and 2021 ought to be a reflection of that.

More NFL: Is Jalen Hurts Being Ignore By The Rest of The League?

The Case for Barkley

When it comes to the Giants offense, they’ve done little to improve over the past few seasons. That might be a bad thing for the team but it works wonders for Saquon Barkley’s fantasy football value. While the rest of the NFL has turned towards a pass-first league, the Giants are taking an old-school pound the football approach. That’s not to say that Daniel Jones won’t air it out from time to time, but when it comes to their attack, it’s primarily leaning on Barkley to carry the load, no pun intended. If the Giants’ offensive line can create better lanes to run through that Barkley ought to get back to his pre-2020 form.

Both the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants could benefit from a strong return to form for their star running backs. If neither team can climb back to a winning season, both will be forced to shake things up, and moving on from either running back has to be evaluated. Who will have the better season in 2021?