The Key Point of Advantage the Dallas Cowboys Hold Over the LA Rams
The next challenge for the Dallas Cowboys (3-1) comes by way of the defending Super Bowl Champion, LA Rams (2-2). However, as of late, it's been the Cowboys who have played up to the higher level. Despite having the lesser-known quarterback between Cooper Rush and Matthew Stafford, it's the Cowboys QB with the better statistical […]
The next challenge for the Dallas Cowboys (3-1) comes by way of the defending Super Bowl Champion, LA Rams (2-2). However, as of late, it's been the Cowboys who have played up to the higher level.
Despite having the lesser-known quarterback between Cooper Rush and Matthew Stafford, it's the Cowboys QB with the better statistical season so far.
Except in this case, it isn't the quarterback play that will determine who wins. The winner will come down to two words: Trench Warfare.
The advantage of this game is going to come down to the better offensive and defensive lines.
While the Cowboys are in the middle of deciding who needs to be their left guard for the season, the Rams have it much worse.
Through four games, the Rams have yet to field the same five starters. That is likely to continue with David Edwards returning to the lineup at left guard. Next to Joseph Noteboom at LT, Jeremiah Kolone at C, Alaric Jackson at RG and Rob Havenstein at RT.
The Rams offensive line has allowed the second most sacks (16) and a 22.5% pressure rate. In fact, the Rams are last in running efficiency with the fourth lowest yards per carry rate (3.3 yards).
Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys defense has the second most sacks (15) and pressure rate (32.7%) in the same timeframe.
On the opposite side, the LA Rams are among the worst pressure generating teams in the league. They currently rank last in the NFL in pressure percentage (10.6%), pressures generated (17), and tied for fourth lowest in total sacks (7).
The Cowboys offensive line is playing well above expectations, but still struggles in areas. Allowing only six sacks so far, but allowing a 27.3% pressure rate and 38 pressures (19th) through four games.
This is where the game will come down to on Sunday. The Cowboys have the early advantage on both ends of the ball with their players up front.
At the rates they play, there's no reason to believe Dallas can't maintain this for week five.
Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
