Why was it impossible for the Cowboys to put Tony Dorsett and Herschel Walker in the same backfield?

Question

In 1986-87, Dallas had what I thought was a potential dream backfield with Heisman Trophy winners Dorsett and Walker on the roster. But they almost never had them both in the backfield at the same time. It seems to be common wisdom in football circles that it was impossible to use them both behind the QB, but I don't know why, even though I know a lot about football. Was it simply a matter of egos and salaries, that there wasn't enough snaps in a game to give enough carries to both million dollar backs, and maintain team harmony? Or was it something to do with the X's and O''s of football that the Cowboys could not use two fast, open field runners at the same time?

Answer 1

I've been a Cowboys fan since the days of Roger Staubach and I still don't understand why Dorsett and Walker weren't used together. My best guess is Landry wanted to keep one of them rested at all times.

Answer 2

What was so hard to understand they played the same position... How could they both be in @ the same time? Hershel Walker wasn't going to block for Dorsett or vice versa they were both tailbacks and split back sets were never part of their attack.

Answer 3

To be able and get the full potentional in your running,you need a great blocking back,like Moose was to Emmit Smith,Herchel was a good running back,and so was Dorsett,and they block on certain plays when needed,but they were not great blockers for running plays

Answer 4

you pretty much answer your own question. once H.Walker came on board with the cowboys everyone feel the same way as you and I. but later in the season (on monday night game) the question was pretty much answer. why don't they used both of them rather one for one situation and the other one from short yardages.

1) T. Dorsett was the main running back and wanted Walker to know it.

2) not enough snap to share with two good running backs in their own rights.

3)  team harmony, some of the teammates like Dorsett over Walker and vise verse.

4) salaires wasn't the issues, just how you can play both of them.