NFL--Why Ezekiel Elliott will run for less than 55.5 yards against the Bengals on Sunday

The Bengals' strong defensive effort against Pittsburgh in a 23-20 overtime loss in Week 1 was overshadowed by game management issues and turnovers.

This year, Cincinnati's defence could be frightening, especially against the run.

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The Steelers only gained 75 yards on the ground (3.4 yards per carry), and they had three more negative runs than double-digit gains.

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Cincinnati's impressive run defence performance from the previous season is continued here.

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When it came to rushing defence, Cincinnati concluded the season ranked No. 23 in the NFL after limiting opposition offences to fewer than 100 yards in eight games (102.5 yards allowed per game).

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Will Cincinnati hold up against Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott in Week 2 and keep him under 55.5 rushing yards?

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Elliott is still highly regarded in the league, but he has fallen short of the level of production he had right out of college in recent years. Last season, he only ran for more than 55 yards five times.

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The Bengals limited Elliott to 48 yards on 12 carries two years ago.

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To force opposing defenders to adapt for their different playing styles, the Cowboys have also included fellow running back Tony Pollard more into the game.

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