WHATEVER HIS ROLE, CHOICE A GREAT OPTION FOR DALLAS COWBOYS

Idle teams give idle minds the chance to concoct all sorts of scenarios.

A popular one this bye week is that the Cowboys need to get Tashard Choice more touches. Public opinion builds that even if Choice doesn't start, he deserves a more prominent role in the Cowboys' running game.

If you are part of this grassroots movement, one piece of information should be passed along. You're a little late to the party.

Don't let the depth chart, where Choice is listed behind Marion Barber and Felix Jones, fool you. This is no third-string back. And don't restrict your sample to the start of this season.

Choice has amassed 402 more yards than Barber since Thanksgiving of last season and has 56 more touches in those 10 games. Jones is so far back he's not part of the discussion.

Barber is the starter. Jones is the most dangerous offensive weapon the Cowboys possess. But their inability to stay healthy has thrust Choice into the primary role.

It's simply not acknowledged because of that irritating No. 3 next to his name.

"We've got to give him some touches," coach Wade Phillips said. "We can't eliminate him. He makes plays."

How does Choice define his role?

"I don't know," he said. "The X factor?

"It's different with me every week. One week I can be in only on third down and special teams, another week I can be carrying the load.

"It just depends on the week, I guess."

It depends on the workload Barber's strained quadriceps allows him to carry. He's clearly not as explosive as he was before the injury. It could take him weeks to regain the strength he lost.

It depends on when Jones returns from his sprained knee. He's optimistic that will happen for next week's game against Atlanta.

"It's hard when you know you can do it every down, but you've got to play here and there, so you've got to make the most of it," Choice said.

What Choice does know is that he's the Cowboys' third-down back. His ability to recognize defenses and explain protection schemes like a coach earned him the position.

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Story courtesy of www.dallasnews.com