The Cowboys activated running backs Rico Dowdle and Ezekiel Elliott as well as fullback Hunter Luepke.

One of the reasons for Vaughn’s suspension was that rookie receiver Ryan Flournoy wanted to play while starting receiver Brandin Cooks was sidelined with a knee injury. Flournoy made his season debut on Sunday night.

The Cowboys’ running game struggled early in the season. Heading into Week 5 games, the Cowboys had the fewest rushing yards (301) and second-fewest rushing attempts (85) in the NFL.

Coach Mike McCarthy has determined that his team needs more attempts to establish their lead. He also said that overwhelming losses to New Orleans and Baltimore allowed his team to compete more often, especially early in the competition.

The Steelers’ run defense has allowed the third-fewest yards (347) in the league.

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