FRISCO, Texas – Coming off a 13-3 season in 2016, expectations were high for the Cowboys 2017 season. Many thought the team would make it all the way to the big one, the Super Bowl. The Cowboys faced many setbacks during the season including injuries of kicker Dan Bailey, linebacker Sean Lee, left tackle Tyron Smith, and Ezekiel Elliott out for six weeks fulfilling his suspension. As a result of the injuries, the Cowboys pass protection suffered. The passing game was non-existent due to the receiver’s inability to connect and find chemistry with quarterback Dak Prescott. Three players stood out during the season to make an impact for “America’s Team” as it struggled: Sean Lee, DeMarcus Lawrence, and Rod Smith.
Sean Lee did miss five games due to his hamstring injury, but his presence and dominance on the gridiron when he was healthy was unmatched. His instincts at the line of scrimmage are incredible and he was all over the ball play after play. There is a reason commentators call Sean Lee the “quarterback of the defense” and teammate D-Law dubbed him “ the motor of our defense.” He is a very perceptive player and has immense knowledge of the game.
In the ‘All or Nothing’ series on Amazon Prime, Lee led multiple meetings by teaching his teammates the function of the opponent’s offense and he was spot on come game day. He coached his teammates on QB Russell Wilson’s ability to get out of the pocket with spin moves to gain space, and how to counter attack RB Marshawn Lynch from gaining yardage by the right footwork and blocking technique. Lee is the heart of the Cowboys defense, and it has trouble functioning without him. Not just because of his performance on the field, but the energy he brings to his teammates by cheering them on. During his 11 starts in 2017, he amassed 101 combined tackles, 70 total, an interception, and a pass deflection. If you cannot find the ball carrier, just look for No.50 wearing a star because he will be there. As soon as the 2017 season concluded and the last team meeting ended, Lee began studying film and working for the 2018 season. He never quits!
DeMarcus Lawrence leads the Cowboys defense with his pass rush ability. He has the nickname ‘tank’ for a reason. As soon as the ball is snapped, quarterbacks do not see him coming. As the offense struggled on the field in 2017, D-Law made up for it on the defensive side of the ball accumulating 14.5 sacks, 58 combined tackles, and 35 total during his 16 game starts. He had a huge impact in the win against the Cardinals in week three with three sacks and five total tackles, and in the week 13 win against the Redskins with two sacks and 4 total tackles.
Offenses fear D-Law and do not know how to stop him. In 2017 he racked up several awards for his efforts on the field: Pro-Bowl nominee, Week three NFC Defensive Player of the Week, and he led the league in sacks with 14.5. Lawrence was ranked in the NFL’s Top 100 at No.34 for 2018: an honor awarded by his peers voting him in. He is a power on the edge of the Cowboys defensive line tackling ball carriers and getting to the quarterback. Offenses better start preparing for Lawrence!
Rod Smith had a huge opportunity thrust at him when Zeke was out for six weeks. He was able to make a statement on the field for the Cowboys as a running back. He beat out Darren McFadden for the No.2 back, behind Alfred Morris at No.1. Smith played backup to Zeke at Ohio State and working with the leading rusher in college before the NFL, made the transition that much smoother for him when Zeke was out. Smith is a versatile player who strengthened the Cowboys running game when it mattered the most.
In the ‘All or Nothing’ series, after Smith’s career leading rushing game against the Giants, Garrett remarked to him stating “ you are playing with a hell of a spirit. It’s contagious!” His energy and impact on the field for his team during their time of need, gave the offense and his fellow teammates hope. During his 15 game starts he amassed 232 rushing yards, a 4.2 average, and four touchdowns. He had a big role in the win against the Giants in week 14 with 47 rushing yards and a touchdown. He stepped up and carried the torch for his team. He has had a wonderful off-season and Marinelli stated during practice that Smith has “matched well with Armstrong.” I am sure we will see more from Rod Smith in 2018!
