Cowboys: Micah Parsons shows his genius in recent interview
All-Pro linebacker/edge Micah Parsons has been the main catalyst for the turnaround on defense for the Dallas Cowboys over the last two seasons with his speed, athleticism, versatility, and power. Having those particular traits doesn't mean anything of course unless there's an understanding of the game from a mental standpoint. Well, Parsons recently showed his […]
All-Pro linebacker/edge Micah Parsons has been the main catalyst for the turnaround on defense for the Dallas Cowboys over the last two seasons with his speed, athleticism, versatility, and power.
Having those particular traits doesn't mean anything of course unless there's an understanding of the game from a mental standpoint. Well, Parsons recently showed his knowledge of the sport.
Parsons spoke with Brian Baldinger of NFL Network on NFL Total Access. He goes on to describe what's going on during two specific plays from the 2022 season.
The first is a read-option play against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 16.
"So really, it's hard because in these read options you gotta read all three people," Parsons said. "If the tight end was going to block me he would have cut me already but I'm trying to stay at the level of the tight end so that way I can kind of force it back in or spill it based off of what he's doing. The tight end really gives the tale but once I'm like egging it and I see Jalen pull it's just all motor and effort from there and speed."
Hurts fakes the handoff to Miles Sanders on this play and Dallas Goedert doesn't make contact with Parsons. So, Parsons redirects and hits the burners toward the sideline and chases Hurts down for a minimal gain.
The next play came in the playoffs against the San Francisco 49ers.
"So all throughout film, they said if Deebo is in the backfield there's a 90% chance of run, so right now I'm getting prepared for run. But as soon as I see Deebo jet out and I see Trent, you know Trent if he wants to get his hands on me he's going to get his hands on me.
"I'm feeling Trent and I see Deebo I instantly take Deebo away because I know it's something towards him, you know what I'm saying? The best player on the defense or the best player on offense just not gonna block each other and touch each other so instantly I'm like somethings up and I just follow Deebo and we just made the play."
Parsons recognizes the play immediately and shoots past All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams and takes away the quick out to Deebo Samuel and it leads to a sack by defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa.
Talk about astute football knowledge.
It's completely understandable after hearing this why Parsons is such a dominant player. The physical attributes are a given there but it's his mastery of the game between his ears that truly makes him elite.
Feature image via Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
