NFL Takeaways: 32 Truths Ahead Of Opening Day
By Erik Lambert
Jan 4, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA;
Dallas Cowboys tackle Jermey Parnell (78) and guard Zack Martin (70) and center Travis Frederick (72) and guard Ronald Leary (65) and tackle Tyron Smith (77) on the field before the game against the Detroit Lions in the NFC Wild Card Playoff Game at AT&T Stadium. Dallas beat Detroit 24-20. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Dallas Cowboys
Offensive line will decide their playoff fate
Things haven’t looked all that steady for the Dallas Cowboys offense so far. Yes, it’s preseason and no time to panic but it’s disconcerting nonetheless. This team made a series of daring moves in the off-season to ensure that they have a shot at the Super Bowl. That includes letting NFL leading rusher DeMarco Murray leave in free agency and no investing in the quarterback position yet again in the draft. Why? Everything comes back to their offensive line.
Led by Pro Bowl left tackle Tyronn Smith and Pro Bowl right guard Zack Martin, it’s a group that ranked among the elite in 2014 and was a big reason they had one of the most balanced offenses in football. What makes this year different is they’ll be expected to carry the load without Murray on the ground and protect a 34-year old Romo who has a history of injury problems.
Not performing up to their new level of expectations could means a steep regression for America’s Team this season.
Next: Denver