Darren McFadden Named Cowboys' Starting RB vs. Seahawks

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones stated Tuesday that Darren McFadden will start at running back in the team's Week 8 clash with the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday.

Charean Williams of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram passed along Jones' confirmation, which came during an appearance on 105.3 The Fan.

McFadden received his first heavy workload as a member of the Cowboys against the rival New York Giants on Sunday. He responded with 152 yards and a touchdown on 29 carries while also catching two passes for 10 yards.

The opportunity arose after starter Joseph Randle suffered a strained oblique early in the contest. Head coach Jason Garrett confirmed Randle was getting worked on Monday and wasn't sure about his availability moving forward, according to Rob Phillips of the team's official site. "He was getting treatment today, and we'll see how he responds to that treatment," Garrett said.

Either way, McFadden earned the opportunity to start with his strong showing against the Giants. The 28-year-old Arkansas product has never lacked dynamic playmaking ability, but an extensive injury history has prevented him from making a consistent impact.

Given that background, it's hard to imagine he'll be able to handle 31 touches like he did last game and stay on the field for an extended period. But he looked as healthy as he's been in a while, and Dallas is going to ride the hot hand, especially with Randle hurting.

The Seahawks own the league's sixth-best run defense, so it's not an easy assignment for McFadden in his first start of the season. That said, the Cowboys don't have much choice but to feature the ground game given their struggles at quarterback with both Brandon Weeden and now Matt Cassel.