**Dallas Cowboys Bench Ezekiel Elliott, Elevate Dalvin Cook for Sunday's Game Against Falcons**

In a move that has surprised many, the Dallas Cowboys have decided not to include star running back Ezekiel Elliott in their travel squad to Atlanta, citing disciplinary reasons. Consequently, Elliott will be inactive for Sunday's face-off with the Falcons. This update was disclosed by NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport on Saturday.

In Elliott's absence, the Cowboys have turned to veteran running back Dalvin Cook, elevating him from the practice squad to the active roster for the second week in a row. Cook, who made his debut for Dallas in last week's loss to the San Francisco 49ers, recorded 12 yards on six attempts. With Elliott sidelined, Cook is expected to share the backfield duties this Sunday alongside Rico Dowdle.

The Cowboys have struggled in the rushing department this season, ranking last in the NFL with an average of 74.1 rushing yards per game. This Sunday, they will face a Falcons defense that is allowing an average of 132.6 rushing yards per game, putting them at 21st in the league.

Elliott, who has so far amassed 149 yards on 3.1 yards per attempt, is second on the team in rushing yards and leads the team with two rushing touchdowns as they approach Week 9. His absence will undoubtedly be felt, but the Cowboys are hopeful that Cook can step up and help fill the void against Atlanta.