What was that?
Last Sunday, a brand new version of the Dallas Cowboys appeared in a blowout win over the Los Angeles Rams. The win came seemingly out of nowhere, revitalizing the fanbase and possibly bringing some momentum to the previously reeling Cowboys.
Let’s get into the game notes from the 44-21 victory.
- This was a vintage Ezekiel Elliott game. Zeke ran with a purpose all night long, going for 117 yards and 2 touchdowns on 4.9 yards per carry. He looked like he did his rookie season, breaking off big runs, making defenders miss, and playing like the elite talent we all hoped to see. If Elliott can keep this up going forward, the Cowboys have a chance to truly make a run.
- It wasn’t just Elliott balling out of the backfield, though. RB2 Tony Pollard actually led the team in rushing, with 131 yards and a score on 10.9 yards per carry. Pollard was as slippery as ever, breaking off two long runs after forcing missed tackles. Obviously, Pollard’s usage is very much game-script based, but he’s been incredible when he’s gotten his chances.
- While the stats didn’t look all that pretty, quarterback Dak Prescott broke out of his slump this week. The play of the game came when Prescott eluded a fresh rusher, chucked the ball across his body and found a wide open Tavon Austin for a 59 yard score. Prescott was efficient, in control of the offense, and even ran the ball 7 times. This game went just how Jason Garrett hopes each week, with Prescott simply making a few necessary throws to keep the offense moving along.
- Maybe most importantly, though, was how this offensive line played. Going against Aaron Donald and one of the most hyped defensive lines in all of football, the Cowboys offensive line was as cohesive and dominant as they had been all season. La’el Collins and Tyron Smith were there usual selves, but the interior of this offensive line deserves a major shoutout. It hasn’t always been good for Travis Frederick and Xaver Su’a-Filo this year, but both had strong performances Sunday.
- Jourdan Lewis, man. Jourdan fricken Lewis. This guy is incredible. Lewis had 6 tackles and a sack, finding himself around the ball on seemingly every play. He’s simply a playmaker, and the type of guy you need on your defense. Especially on a defense that fails to create big plays so often.
- Sean Lee had his best game in about two years during Sunday’s win. Lee not only had a sack on a blitz, but also had the interception which basically sealed the game in the first half. Lee is a clear leader on this team, and it was awesome to see him turn back the clock during the victory.
- Last but not least: the importance of Antwuan Woods’ return cannot be understated. Woods pushed the pocket regularly, and was creating havoc in the interior of the defense all night long. It’s no coincidence that Woods’ return went hand-in-hand with the linebackers having their best game in weeks.
