FRISCO, Texas – In preparation for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, the Dallas Cowboys focused on third down situations today during Thursday’s practice at the Star. Against the Colts, Dallas was 4-12 in third down efficiency and came away with zero points. For the season, the Cowboys have converted 74 of 173 attempts on third down, for a 42.8 average.
The ball needs to be given to Ezekiel Elliott in those critical situations. He is currently ranked No.2 in the league for leading in first downs with 68 rushing, 21 receiving, and 89 total. Elliott is also tied at sixth as a third-down receiving leader with 24 receptions for 136 yards and an average of 5.7 yards on the carry.
The Cowboys issue of capitalizing on opportunities in the red zone has continued. Their offense needs to be able to stay ahead of the chains and get in the end zone. Settling for field goals will not work against Tampa Bay or secure their division title going into playoffs. Dallas’ passing game is currently ranked 24th in the league, while Tampa is tied with Kansas City for first place in the league, largely due to their explosive weapon and favorite target of Jameis Winston- speed and size combo Mike Evans.
Elliott has a relentless spirit and fights for yardage. He has the patience at the line of scrimmage to wait for a lane to open, and the vision and power to cross the needed down marker. He needs more snaps on third downs point blank.
The good news for Dallas is that their premiere right guard, Zack Martin, was back at practice today in full participation. The guy is a warrior and there is no player more dedicated. He missed Sunday’s game against the Colts, his first ever missed game as a Cowboy, after 69 straight, going all the way back to grade school. He has been to the Pro Bowl four times, and will enter his fifth in 2019. Martin is often an underrated player in the interior of Dallas’ offensive line, but he has one of the most critical roles on the offensive side of the ball for America’s Team. He gives Dak Prescott enough time in the pocket to release the ball, and has incredible force in the line, opening up holes and the running game for Zeke.
Against the Colts, the Cowboys were without Martin and Indy added linebackers to the box, jamming the line of scrimmage: forcing Dak out of the pocket and shutting down the run. Elliott finished with 87 yards and a 4.8 average. Thankfully, Martin will be back against Tampa Bay, but they have to minimize the penalties. Tyron Smith has repeatedly been called for holding penalties.
Today Jason Garrett opened up about the red zone woes and remarked that penalties have been a huge factor. He explained the issue with Smith, “ He has big hands and a strong grip, but he has to release quicker. “ The elite offensive tackle will be heading to Orlando for the Pro Bowl in 2019 representing the Cowboys and the NFC. He will no doubt iron out his release and improve, to give his team the best shot at winning the divisional crown heading into playoffs. Smith has the tough task of preventing power edge rushers from getting to his quarterback. He has dealt with a neck stinger this year and battled an elbow injury, to tack on to Dallas’ o-line injury list. Smith continues to persevere each week and has been a standout player for Dallas since his selection in the 2011 Draft. His recognition of his faulty costly penalties and need of improvement, says a lot about the character of the eight-year veteran. Fixing the negative plays is a priority and necessity for the Cowboys heading into week 16.
