After the Week 1 loss to the Buccaneers, many fans had a couple of takeaways from the Dallas Cowboys offense. Firstly, the offensive line needs to give Dak Prescott more time to survey the field. Secondly, Ezekiel Elliott was very impressive in pass protection.
Many people even commented that the offensive game plan looked like something out of Mike Leach’s “Air Raid” scheme. That was due to how little the running game was incorporated and the amount of quick passes to the talented Dallas receivers.
It looks like that was more out of necessity than anything.
Dak Prescott had an average of 2.39 seconds to throw per play, which ranked 2nd lowest in NFL. Facing Joey Bosa next week, the Cowboys will have to keep up with the quick passing.
(Per @NextGenStats)
— Mauricio Rodríguez (@MauNFL) September 14, 2021
The Cowboys coaches knew that the offensive line may have issues sustaining blocks against one of the best defensive lines in football. In Week 2, it does not get much easier. They’ll face off against one of the best pass-rushers in the league in Joey Bosa and a talented Chargers defensive line.
Don’t be surprised if we see more two tight end sets as well. With the loss of Michael Gallup, Offensive Coordinator Kellen Moore may incorporate some more schemed touches for Blake Jarwin and Dalton Schultz. Not to mention, they will almost certainly be asked to block inline a bit more to give Prescott more time.
The Return of Zack Martin
Getting Zack Martin back on the line in any capacity is vital as well. Reports are saying that he will still start at guard even with the La’El Collins suspension. Regardless, he makes life a lot easier for both the running and passing game.
How important is Zack Martin? According to ESPN Stats & Info, the Cowboys averaged 4.5 yards per rush with him on the field last season and just 3.8 yards without him.
— Todd Archer (@toddarcher) September 6, 2021
Cowboys All-Pro right guard Zack Martin on moving to right tackle last year: “I think that was different circumstances last year. I play right guard and that’s what I’m going to do. … Listen, I’m open to do whatever they need me to do, but … yeah.” pic.twitter.com/CORGRdMioC
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) September 16, 2021
Going Forward
Backup OT Terrance Steele will replace Collins at tackle – for now at least. Dallas will need him to play the best football of his career in order to weather the storm during Collins’ absence.
The Cowboys’ quick-passing game was efficient and impressive in Week 1. Nonetheless, they need the offensive line to give them more time to be a bit more multiple with their play-calling because defenses will make adjustments.
Featured Image via USA TODAY-Sports
