The Dallas Cowboys are having an unusual year with a coach on the way out and three unsigned superstars. As a fan base, we do not know if CeeDee Lamb will even play, and that is a scary thought.
However, if CeeDee does play, what could impact him as a prime receiver?
We can look at the other wide receivers, but that might be too easy. Fans always call out the quarterback. We get a little warmer if we dig into the running back position.
The position that will impact CeeDee Lamb’s production the most, however, will be the offensive line.
Cowboys Offensive Line Woes
The Cowboys offensive line is a concern heading into the upcoming season. They have lost their All-Pro and potential Hall-of-Fame left tackle, Tyron Smith, and will be without center Tyler Biadasz as well.
This could pose a problem from a continuity standpoint.
The Cowboys opted to fill the void left by these players with two rookies. They have chosen Tyler Guyton and Cooper Beebe to take on the new left tackle and center roles.
Cooper Beebe, in particular, will face competition for his spot on the 53-man roster, from Brock Hoffman.
In training camp, Brock Hoffman, a second-year player, may have the upper hand over Cooper Beebe, a rookie playing a position with which he is unfamiliar. This could be the battle to keep an eye on in Oxnard.
Cooper Beebe holds the upper hand regarding draft pedigree, but Brock Hoffman boasts two years of experience in the NFL. This experience alone could trigger a significant position battle, ultimately culminating in appointing a new center once the season begins.
Entering the league as a first-round draft pick, Tyler Guyton will have every opportunity to secure the left tackle spot without facing the same level of competition as Beebe.
You may be wondering how this will impact CeeDee Lamb.
What Does CeeDee Lamb Need To Succeed?
As a wide receiver, the running game and the amount of time a quarterback has to throw the ball are paramount. Two new players on the offensive line could cause issues for the Cowboys’ superstar receiver.
I am a strong proponent of allowing the quarterback enough time to go through his progressions and ensuring that our running game is strong enough to prevent the defense from focusing on a particular offensive strategy.
Who can create running lanes and sustain blocks to execute the offense’s strategy?
That answer is the offensive line.
These massive human beings have an enormous job that affects all facets of the offensive game plan. They are the unsung heroes of the offense, keeping it moving.
These players can create numerous opportunities for CeeDee Lamb by keeping the quarterback upright long enough to find his receiver downfield.
When Dak Prescott has sufficient time to progress through his reads, CeeDee Lamb can exhibit his skills by running crisp routes, shaking off the cornerback, and capitalizing on open-field opportunities after the catch.
The Running Game’s & Offensive Line’s Impact on Lamb
If effective, the running game creates numerous opportunities for the offense and CeeDee Lamb.
Who makes the running game better? The offensive line plays a crucial role in our game plan.
By creating openings for the Cowboys’ committee of running backs, they pave the way for a solid rushing attack, which could create opportunities for Lamb to capitalize on during the game.
An effective running game in this offense will open up the game plan and could help CeeDee go so far as to set records in various receiving categories (again).
Everyone wants to see a Dallas Cowboy breaking records on the way to an incredible season!
The Offensive Line Is CeeDee’s Best Friend
Creating holes for the running game makes Lamb’s job much easier on the outside, so it’s safe to say that his offensive linemen are his favorite people come game day.
If the opposing defense is unaware of what’s coming and unable to stop Ezekiel Elliott & Co., they will have to focus more on the running game. When a defense is on the ice, the offensive line can better anticipate and block the linemen, providing Dak Prescott ample time for big plays downfield.
As much as people crave additional options at the receiver position, the offensive line can create significant opportunities for CeeDee Lamb and the rest of the Cowboys’ wide outs.
It’s essential to recognize that without a solid offensive line, we may see significant changes in the coaching staff, quarterback, and even the receiving corps.
None of us wants to see a complete overhaul right now, but it’s a possibility that we should consider in the future. Hopefully, the front office made the right decision by letting go of key offensive linemen in the offseason and that rookies and second-year players alike can step up.
