The Dallas Cowboys haven't had a 100-yard rusher in 19 consecutive games, but Rico Dowdle might be the key to ending that negative streak this Sunday.

The Dallas run game has not been good this season, but Rico Dowdle showed progress against the Steelers and it's something to build on.

Rico Dowdle had a breakout performance in Week 5 for the Dallas Cowboys. The fifth-year back had 87 yards on the ground and another 27 through the air and was instrumental in their comeback win over the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The last time the Cowboys started the season 0-3 at home was 2010 when Jason Garrett became the interim coach after Wade Phillips was fired during the season.

The Detroit Lions (3-1), fresh off their bye, will make their second road trip of the season when they visit the Dallas Cowboys (3-2), who are winless at home to start the season. Sunday's matchup will mark the Lions' third consecutive game at AT&T Stadium in as many seasons and is the first of the next 4-of-5 games on the road this year.

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Jalen Tolbert (1) celebrates his touchdown catch with running back Rico Dowdle (23) during the second half of an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, early Monday, Oct. 7, 2024, in Pittsburgh. The Cowboys won 20-17. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

What was a backfield by committee is now becoming Dowdle's domain. Why is that, and what can Dallas expect from the 26-year-old?

After a night of career highs in rushing yards and carries, Dowdle kept a souvenir from his best game as a pro.

After a career game that saw him post 114 yards from scrimmage, Cowboys RB Rico Dowdle is offering more optimism out of the backfield.

In his past three games, Dowdle has rushed for 165 yards on 39 carries, with zero touchdowns, and has 66 yards receiving on six catches (eight targets) with two TDs. He has accumulated 35.1 fantasy points (11.7 per game).