With Ezekiel Elliot getting drafted into an ideal spot, it raises the comparisons between Ezekiel and last year rookie sensation Todd Gurley. Gurley played in 13 games last year and ran for 1,106 yards and 1o touchdowns, exceeding most expectations and launching himself into RB1 discussion. While Elliot wasn’t quite seen as the same prospect as Gurley was, his landing spot has pushed his expectations up a notch. Running behind the Dallas O-line he should have plenty of holes. Dallas was ranked as the number one pass blocking o-line, as well as the number one run blocking group by Pro Football Focus this season. This is an even better version of the O-line that helped Demarco Murray be the rushing leader only two years ago. So who is the better pick for fantasy this year and who will have the brighter future? It’s impossible to tell but by looking at their game footage and stats, we can have a pretty good idea.

Speed: While the forty yard dash may be the most overrated combine drill, and is not a good indicator of future success, it does some of the break away ability of a running back. Ezekiel Elliot ran a 4.47 at the combine this year, faster than the average for running backs (4.59).

Todd Gurley was injured at his NFL combine, but from what we have seen from him it is apparent he would run faster. Gurley is in a tier of the very elite NFL athletes, and possesses great initial burst that sustains for long runs. In this run against the 49ers, he bursts through the hole and outruns everyone, getting to the end zone untouched on a simple inside run. While Ezekiel is fast, he is not quite on the same level as Gurley and that extra speed will help Gurley on longer runs and getting to holes quicker.

Advantage: Gurley

Shedding Tackles: Again both of these runners shine when shedding tackles, and neither of them are scared of accepting contact. While we have not seen Elliot at the NFL level, we can confidently predict that his running style will stay the same and Elliot has shown that if everything else fails, he will always keep his legs moving. While Gurley can sometimes stand up while running, Ezekiel stays low and is more comfortable running up the middle.

Small Advantage: Elliot

Pass Catching and Pass Blocking: This has been well documented as one of Elliot’s greatest strengths, as he was very involved in the passing game at Ohio State and stayed on the field on third downs. Elliot looked good as a pass blocker and as a receiver, and Jeff Fisher didn’t get Gurley very involved in the passing game. Gurley only had 21 receptions and nothing suggests that will change. Expect Elliot’s receiving numbers to be significantly higher than Gurleys.

Big Advantage: Elliot

Potential: This is the one are where dynasty fantasy league owners may be most interested in and this is where Gurley pulls ahead. We haven’t seen a running back with Gurley’s freaky athleticism since Adrian Peterson. If Gurley can put it all together and take the yards that are there instead of looking for the big play, then he can become one of the top backs of the decade.

Advantage: Gurley

Final Verdict: Gurley and Ezekiel are neck and neck but the deciding factor is the fact that Gurley has proven himself in the NFL, putting up over 1000 yards shortly after returning from a torn ACL. In addition to this, the fact that Gurley has a freakish blend of speed and size pushes him to another level, one which we hope to see him at next season.

Winner: Todd Gurley