Cowboys: Playmaker's under-the-radar performance a big part of Sunday's win
The Dallas Cowboys beat the Washington Commanders 25-10 to record their third consecutive win, all of them with Cooper Rush at quarterback. The win – which puts Dallas at 3-1 – featured things Cowboys Nation might be getting used to by now; Cooper Rush connecting with Noah Brown, opposing quarterbacks being under constant fire, and […]
The Dallas Cowboys beat the Washington Commanders 25-10 to record their third consecutive win, all of them with Cooper Rush at quarterback.
The win – which puts Dallas at 3-1 – featured things Cowboys Nation might be getting used to by now; Cooper Rush connecting with Noah Brown, opposing quarterbacks being under constant fire, and Trevon Diggs showing up in coverage among them.
However, one thing was particularly refreshing. Michael Gallup was back at wide receiver and for more than just a "pitch count."
Gallup – who hadn't played since tearing his ACL last season – finished the day with only two catches for 24 yards in three targets. While that stat line isn't that impressive, his impact was felt on Sunday.
Consider this: Gallup drew two flags in coverage that resulted in 65 yards combined. Add that to his total yardage and that would put him at 89 yards, only behind Lamb's total.
On top of that, one of his catches was a clutch touchdown catch that he completed after running a filthy route in the end zone that put six points on the scoreboard for the Cowboys.
But mostly, Gallup's presence changes how opposing defenses line up against Dallas' offense. Instead of rolling coverage toward #88 every single snap, they're forced to respect Gallup as the isolated receiver.
The talent on the field with Gallup and Schultz being back also helped Dallas run from 11 personnel.
Clearly, the Cowboys offense isn't a well-oiled machine just yet. But Sunday's win against the Commanders was a reminder of how things can look like with a healthier lineup. Dak Prescott's return is expected soon while the team sits at a comfortable 3-1 record and within reach of the still undefeated Philadelphia Eagles.
Featured image via Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
