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Lance Dunbar injury: Cowboys RB needs knee surgery

An already weak rushing attack takes a hit following Lance Dunbar’s best game.

Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
James Dator
James Dator has been covering a wide range of sports for SB Nation for over a decade, with a special focus on the NFL.

Dallas Cowboys running back Lance Dunbar had a Thanksgiving to remember, but his breakout game had a lasting impact. The organization announced Friday that he will require knee surgery, and will likely miss the remainder of the 2013 season.

Dunbar saw his role increased against Oakland with the second year running back carrying the ball a career-high 12 times for 82 yards in the Cowboys' win. He averaged 6.8 yards per carry, and could have seen seen more use moving forward with DeMarco Murray struggling against Raiders run defense.

The Cowboys have struggled to run the ball effectively in 2013, ranking 27th in the NFL with just over 85 yards per game. Murray has had up-and-down games this season, increasing the need to have a reliable backup. Dallas will lean on rookie Joseph Randle who has struggled with poor performance and an MCL strain this season.

Dunbar's injury comes at an inopportune time with the Cowboys fighting the Philadelphia Eagles for the lead in the NFC East.

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