Week 5 NFL Advanced Analytics Superstars

Running Back: Ezekiel Elliott

Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Dallas Cowboys
15 Rushes, 134 Yards, 2 Touchdowns
3 Receptions, 37 Yards, 4 Targets
Performance: 99, NEP: +11.17

Zeke came out hot this week and was able to turn in a terrific performance against a Bengals defense that's quietly allowing big games to opposing running backs. Elliott picked up 134 yards and 2 touchdowns on the ground on just 15 carries and was able to tack on additional 37 receiving yards on 3 receptions.

The Cowboys' offensive line was able to open up big holes for Elliott this week in what amounted to an incredible highlight reel that just needs DMX playing in the background to be considered perfection. Through five weeks, he's paid off his first-round fantasy draft price tag by producing steady points for fantasy owners. His Rushing NEP leads the league, and he's currently top-12 in yards after contact. He currently leads the league in rushing yards (546) with an 85-yard gap between him and the second-place running back, DeMarco Murray.

Zeke finished as the overall RB2 in PPR scoring formats this week, just behind David Johnson. It's remarkable that he was able to turn in such a performance on just 18 total touches. Hopefully Week 5's performance opens up Jason Garrett's eyes to Elliott's potential heading into a tough matchup against Green Bay (our number-two ranked run defense) next week.

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