Redskins won't miss Ezekiel Elliott, but will benefit from his absence

The Washington Redskins didn't catch a break with Ezekiel Elliott's suspension -- at least not directly. After all, the Redskins will face him twice even if he fails to win his appeal. Then again, if Dallas stumbles in its first six games minus Elliott, it could be enough to vault the Redskins back into contention in the NFC East. Elliott was suspended for six games under the league's personal conduct policy, the result of a year-long investigation into allegations of domestic violence. He can appeal, but regardless he will face the Redskins twice. As of now, his first game back will be against the Redskins on Oct. 29. We're looking at what this news means from a football perspective and what it means for the Redskins. For those who think Elliott's success was simply about John Riggins Jerseys the Dallas offensive line, think again. Yes, the Cowboys' front was outstanding last season, as Elliott averaged 5.1 yards per carry. The other top running backs -- Alfred Morris Jordan Reed Jerseys and Darren McFadden -- averaged 3.5 and 3.2 yards, respectively. Elliott's presence mattered. As well as quarterback Dak Prescott played, it Ryan Kerrigan Jerseys was Elliott who powered that offense -- and was the guy Washington's defense feared most. He's quick to the hole and runs with power and speed. It also set up Prescott for play-action throws, an Kirk Cousins Jerseys area he thrived in last season. The only NFC East team that directly benefits from Elliott's suspension will be the Giants, who play Dallas in the opener. If the Redskins don't start out strong, it won't matter that Elliott didn't play in the first six games. The question will be, how effective can Elliott be in his first game back (assuming he loses his appeal, and the suspension Sean Taylor Jerseys remains six games)? Last season against Washington, Elliott rushed for 180 yards on 41 carries and scored three touchdowns.