How Cowboys rookie's rise is making life much easier for the team
All eyes were on the Dallas Cowboys cornerback group when the game started against the Philadelphia Eagles on Saturday. Finding the correct response to Anthony Brown's injury is among the team's priorities moving forward as it's a driving force behind the recent defensive struggles. While the exact lineup isn't set, it's clear that fifth-round rookie […]
All eyes were on the Dallas Cowboys cornerback group when the game started against the Philadelphia Eagles on Saturday. Finding the correct response to Anthony Brown's injury is among the team's priorities moving forward as it's a driving force behind the recent defensive struggles.
While the exact lineup isn't set, it's clear that fifth-round rookie DaRon Bland is an even bigger part of the answer than we originally thought.
"I think what DaRon Bland has done as a rookie is, I’m trying to think back through my time to have that kind of impact," Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy told reporters following the win. "You know never playing inside, get your start inside as nickel and then moving back outside. I can't say enough about our young guys."
Bland's numbers might not jump off the stat sheet as impressive. He allowed six catches in nine targets (the team's most targeted DB) for 67 yards, and four first downs including a touchdown he gave up in a Cowboys' all-out blitz near the red zone.
But as the head coach notes, the Cowboys asked a lot of him by moving him around the secondary. Bland lined up outside in 23 snaps and 29 snaps in the slot, per Pro Football Focus.
And he delivered with his FIFTH interception of the year (so impressive I had to double check his stats just to make sure right now). And make no mistake about it. The Cowboys might've been playing a backup quarterback but Bland's pick was no "gimme." In fact, it was a clinic-worthy play.
The fact that his interception came playing outside makes things even better. As the Cowboys continue to figure out what's the best possible lineup, Bland's versatility has allowed them to explore options.
- Outside: Diggs, Bland. Slot: Mackensie Alexander.
- Outside: Diggs, Nashson Wright. Slot: Bland.
- Outside: Diggs, Bland. Slot: Kearse/Wilson.
Wright also had a good day for the Cowboys, by the way. The second-year cornerback had an impressive pass breakup and gave up only two first downs in seven targets.
"They’re up here for the early morning meetings, all through training camp, all this week and they’re the guys that are staying late too," revealed McCarthy when asked about the young players on defense. "It’s great to see your players have success when they put the extra time in.”
Featured image via Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
