Across the Shield: Ezekiel Elliott Tops Dorsett, Ted Ginn Jr. Goes Deep & Kurt Coleman Nabs an Interception

Zeke Breaks Cowboy Record

Once again, we lead off with Ezekiel Elliott doing good things on a football field.

This week, the rookie reached yet another milestone as he topped Tony Dorsett's Cowboy's rookie rushing record.

After Dallas selected him with the second-overall pick in the 1977 draft, Dorsett ripped off 1,007 rushing yards in his rookie campaign, setting a franchise record which stood for 39 years.

Sunday, Elliott topped the record, and far ahead of Dorsett's pace. It took Dorsett a full season to set the record; Elliott broke it on the first carry of his 10th game.

Also, in a shocking turn of events, he hurdled someone in the process.

Elliott finished the game with 25 carries for 97 yards and four catches for 30 yards and is still the NFL's leading rusher.

Understandably, he was feeling pretty upbeat after the game.

Mood pic.twitter.com/hRqVROWYaV

— Ezekiel Elliott (@EzekielElliott) November 20, 2016

Former Silver Bullets Shine

Defensive players don't get much love around these parts unless they find themselves in the end zone. However, this week, the former Silver Bullets outshone their offensive counterparts. Here are some of the top performances.

Donte Whitner

Whitner began the season retired, but was signed by the Washington Redskins to aid their struggling secondary. Since then, he's been one of the team's leading tacklers week in and week out. Sunday was no exception as Whitner led the team with 10 total tackles against the Packers.

Ryan Shazier

Shazier is quickly turning into one of the most dominant linebackers in the league. Sunday, the former Buckeye was everywhere for the Steelers defense. Shazier finished the game with seven total tackles, three tackles for a loss and his strip-sack on Josh McCown: 

Eli Apple

Apple had perhaps the best game of his young professional career Sunday, statistically at least. The rookie led the team with nine total tackles, had a tackle for a loss and had a crucial fumble recovery on a Bears muffed punt.

Kurt Coleman

I didn't guarantee flashy, but you're going to get it here.

During the Panthers' game against the Saints, Coleman stepped in front of a Drew Brees pass, intercepting it in New Orleans territory. Coleman had a nice return and followed his blocks well, but he couldn't find the end zone. I guess not everyone can be Malik Hooker.

Coleman also finished the game with nine total tackles, good for second on the team.

Vonn Bell

Bell has grown from a player that saw occasional minutes to a definite difference maker and leader in the Saints defense. Sunday, that was put on display again as he finished second in the team in total tackles with seven and had 0.5 tackles for a loss.

Malcolm Jenkins

Jenkins led the Eagles defense in total tackles finishing the game with 7, and added 0.5 tackles for a loss.

Season's Pass

Unfortunately, two former Buckeyes saw their seasons come to a close this week due to injuries.

Steelers defensive end Cameron Heyward announced his season-ending injury on social media  He suffered a pectoral injury and has been ruled out for the remainder of the season.

 

I would like to thank everyone who has been in my corner this season. It pains me to say that I will not get to continue playing this season. My role will change as I can not play but it will not change the goals the team has set out. My support for this team will only grow and I look forward in watching this team grow and fight on. Hate being on the sideline but there is a greater plan taking place. My patience will be tested but I look forward to 2017. My hand will remain in the pile no matter what!

A photo posted by Cam Heyward (@camhey97) on Nov 15, 2016 at 10:28am PST

He then proceeded to Crying Jordan himself on Twitter, which is a baller move.

And I thought I could play this season. Just love being a Pittsburgh steeler! pic.twitter.com/m3UB1UYua6

— Cam Heyward (@CamHeyward) November 16, 2016

It appears as though James Laurinaitus' season is over as well, or at least it is in New Orleans. The Saints cut Laurinaitis this week after he'd been put on the team's injured/reserve list about two weeks before.

Laurinaitus is now free to sign with another team.

Play of the Week

Entering the week, Ted Ginn Jr. did not have a single touchdown catch this season. He had a huge one Thursday night.

Somehow, New Orleans gave a linebacker the tall task of running with a former sprinter on a deep ball. Shockingly, Ginn won and made a great grab for a touchfown.

The officials initially ruled it incomplete, but after review overturned the call and awarded Ginn with his touchdown.

Ohio Against the World

This week, I'm putting all blame exclusively on Mike Nugent. Fair or not, you decide.

Also, it's week 11 and I have changed my mind. I no longer think I will win a game with this team, bit it's remarkable that I've actually had a legitimate chance in past games. I just need a quarterback and a tight end.

***Player listed as "Injured/Physically Unable to Perform"