Cowboys QB Dak Prescott's luck continues to haunt him in practice
Unless you've gone on an isolation retreat for nine months or longer, you're aware of Dak Prescott's interceptions in 2022. The Dallas Cowboys quarterback led the NFL with 15 of them, which has naturally sparked all sorts of debates among fans and even media members. Anyone who has studied them closely, however, knows that many […]
Unless you've gone on an isolation retreat for nine months or longer, you're aware of Dak Prescott's interceptions in 2022. The Dallas Cowboys quarterback led the NFL with 15 of them, which has naturally sparked all sorts of debates among fans and even media members.
Anyone who has studied them closely, however, knows that many of them are not to be blamed on him. Some had to do with miscommunications like the one witnessed at Lambeau Stadium in Week 10 after CeeDee Lamb misread the safety or while some others had to do with unlucky bounces, like when Noah Brown let go of the football only for it to bounce off of his helmet into the hands of the Jacksonville Jaguars in overtime.
Well, the Cowboys could mitigate some of the risks the offense takes and HC Mike McCarthy has hinted that he'll opt for a more conservative approach as he takes over as the team's play-caller. But that can only go so far as plain luck will continue to be a factor. And according to Dallas Morning News' Michael Gehlken, that part isn't changing just yet.
"But there were also moments like the one Thursday," wrote Gehlken on a Twitter thread describing Thursday's practice. "TE Peyton Hendershot dropped a pass in a short red-zone drill. Sixth-round rookie CB Eric Scott there for (the) pick."
No, forget about pressing all of the panic red buttons you can find. That is certainly not the intent behind this article. It's only practice, guys!
It is, however, a reminder that Prescott will be under the microscope in every throw he makes this offseason whether that's right or wrong.
The coaching staff wants fewer interceptions, sure. But let's not forget about one of the biggest reasons why those existed in the first place.
The Cowboys found themselves in many third-and-long situations, of which Prescott consistently bailed them out when asked to throw. Perhaps more aggressive play-calling in early downs could help avoid facing so many unfavorable third downs.
As much as McCarthy has talked about running the football more, his offenses in Green Bay consistently passed the ball in early downs. It'll be intriguing to see what things actually look like when football is being played and not discussed.
Featured image via Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
