Offense: Intelligence & Scheme Changes

[xwalker]

This is a review of the offensive with regards to football intelligence.

In order to use a more varied offensive scheme, the players must execute the new changes.

I'm confident that Kellen Moore can make the scheme much better and less predictable; however, my concern is that he might implement too many changes too soon. I don't think that will happen; however, it's always possible with a new coach or new (modified) scheme.

In the past the Cowboys were limited by a few dumb players like Dez and TWill.

The increase in intelligence just at the WR position as compared to 2017 and earlier is huge. Cooper/Cobb vs Dez/TWill is like upgrading your son's science fair partner from Dexter Manley and Terry Bradshaw to a reincarnation of Albert Einstein and Stephen Hawking.

Looney over-achieved his talent last year but getting Frederick back is huge with regards to the overall intelligence of the offense. They missed Frederick's line calls.


Wide Receivers
Amari Cooper

The best route runner in the NFL according to Aikman. Game knowledge appears to be off the charts.​

Michael Gallup

Advanced route runner in college. Adapted quickly as a rookie.​

Randall Cobb

Known for being a smart player. Very experienced.​

Noah Brown

The opposite of a ready-now player when drafted because injury limited his experience in college. Very polished as a blocker. Receiving ability (mental and physical) still in question. Was 4th in Special Teams Snaps played as a percent of possible ST snaps in the games that he played.​

Cedrick Wilson

Advanced route runner in college.​

Tavon Austin

Reported to be exceptional in regards to football knowledge in training camp last year.​

Allen Hurns

Might not make the roster, but is an experienced and versatile backup.​

Jalen Guyton
Jon'Vea Johnson
Devin Smith
Lance Lenoir Jr.
Reggie Davis

Tight Ends
Jason Witten

Extremely experienced (16 years). Just don’t ask him to explain football while in a TV game booth...
​

Blake Jarwin

Things seemed to “click” for him as a receiver as the 2018 season progressed. Reported to be in sync with Dak with regards to “seeing” the defense.​

Dalton Schultz

Adapted quickly as a blocker during his rookie season.​

Rico Gathers

Paraphrasing Forrest Gump “Not a smart man”.​

Codey McElroy

Running Backs
Ezekiel Elliott

Showed great attention to detail and understanding of defenses in 2018 including blocking/receiving as well as rushing.​

Tony Pollard

Saavy player based on game footage. In college showed a great understanding of the Memphis scheme which was unique and varied. He was a very versatile player and showed a good understanding of his roles as a lead blocker, runner and receiver.​

Jamize Olawale

Jack-of-All Trades type player.​

Mike Weber Jr.

From draft reports: Savvy, slippery runner who sets up blocks well at the point of attack. Quick to identify vacancies in the defensive front or when he needs to get his head around vs. pressure as a pass outlet. Has that "do it all" vibe. High motor player who has been the consummate teammate.​

Darius Jackson
Jordan Chunn

Quarterbacks
Dak Prescott

Adapted to the NFL very quickly as a rookie and as football smart (or smarter) as compared to other 4th year QBs.
​

Cooper Rush
Mike White

Offensive Linemen
Travis Frederick

Smartest player on the team according to teammates.​

Zack Martin

Technique master and was one of the most ready-now players his rookie season that’s ever come out of college.​

Connor Williams

Struggled physically as a rookie that was 296 pounds when drafted; however, mentally he adapted quickly to the NFL game and position change. The 4th ever player in UT history to receive All-American honors as a Sophomore.​

Tyron Smith

Ninth year.​

La'el Collins

They can’t all be smart.​

Joe Looney

Incredibly well prepared as a backup that became a season long starter. As a starter probably a bit lagging in the ability to “read” a defense and make line calls.​

Cameron Fleming

Experienced backup.​

Connor McGovern

Started as a freshman. Started 35 of 39 possible college games.​

Xavier Su'a-Filo

Experienced backup.​

Mitch Hyatt

A 4 year starter in college known for his advanced understanding of how to play the position.​

Larry Allen Jr.

Harvard​

Brandon Knight

From draft reports: Outstanding football intelligence and awareness in pass pro. Eyes work fast to process twists and stunts. He's a quick processor.​

Derrick Puni
Cody Wichmann
Adam Redmond
Jake Campos

 

[DogFace]

Great breakdown and I think you’re right. We are much more intelligent as a group.

Jimmy was all about smart players. Or at least wasn’t all about stupid players.

 

[Bleu Star]

This is a review of the offensive with regards to football intelligence.

In order to use a more varied offensive scheme, the players must execute the new changes.

I'm confident that Kellen Moore can make the scheme much better and less predictable; however, my concern is that he might implement too many changes too soon. I don't think that will happen; however, it's always possible with a new coach or new (modified) scheme.

In the past the Cowboys were limited by a few dumb players like Dez and TWill.

The increase in intelligence just at the WR position as compared to 2017 and earlier is huge. Cooper/Cobb vs Dez/TWill is like upgrading your son's science fair partner from Dexter Manley and Terry Bradshaw to a reincarnation of Albert Einstein and Stephen Hawking.

Looney over-achieved his talent last year but getting Frederick back is huge with regards to the overall intelligence of the offense. They missed Frederick's line calls.


Wide Receivers
Amari Cooper

The best route runner in the NFL according to Aikman. Game knowledge appears to be off the charts.​

Michael Gallup

Advanced route runner in college. Adapted quickly as a rookie.​

Randall Cobb

Known for being a smart player. Very experienced.​

Noah Brown

The opposite of a ready-now player when drafted because injury limited his experience in college. Very polished as a blocker. Receiving ability (mental and physical) still in question. Was 4th in Special Teams Snaps played as a percent of possible ST snaps in the games that he played.​

Cedrick Wilson

Advanced route runner in college.​

Tavon Austin

Reported to be exceptional in regards to football knowledge in training camp last year.​

Allen Hurns

Might not make the roster, but is an experienced and versatile backup.​

Jalen Guyton
Jon'Vea Johnson
Devin Smith
Lance Lenoir Jr.
Reggie Davis

Tight Ends
Jason Witten

Extremely experienced (16 years). Just don’t ask him to explain football while in a TV game booth...
​

Blake Jarwin

Things seemed to “click” for him as a receiver as the 2018 season progressed. Reported to be in sync with Dak with regards to “seeing” the defense.​

Dalton Schultz

Adapted quickly as a blocker during his rookie season.​

Rico Gathers

Paraphrasing Forrest Gump “Not a smart man”.​

Codey McElroy

Running Backs
Ezekiel Elliott

Showed great attention to detail and understanding of defenses in 2018 including blocking/receiving as well as rushing.​

Tony Pollard

Saavy player based on game footage. In college showed a great understanding of the Memphis scheme which was unique and varied. He was a very versatile player and showed a good understanding of his roles as a lead blocker, runner and receiver.​

Jamize Olawale

Jack-of-All Trades type player.​

Mike Weber Jr.

From draft reports: Savvy, slippery runner who sets up blocks well at the point of attack. Quick to identify vacancies in the defensive front or when he needs to get his head around vs. pressure as a pass outlet. Has that "do it all" vibe. High motor player who has been the consummate teammate.​

Darius Jackson
Jordan Chunn

Quarterbacks
Dak Prescott

Adapted to the NFL very quickly as a rookie and as football smart (or smarter) as compared to other 4th year QBs.
​

Cooper Rush
Mike White

Offensive Linemen
Travis Frederick

Smartest player on the team according to teammates.​

Zack Martin

Technique master and was one of the most ready-now players his rookie season that’s ever come out of college.​

Connor Williams

Struggled physically as a rookie that was 296 pounds when drafted; however, mentally he adapted quickly to the NFL game and position change. The 4th ever player in UT history to receive All-American honors as a Sophomore.​

Tyron Smith

Ninth year.​

La'el Collins

They can’t all be smart.​

Joe Looney

Incredibly well prepared as a backup that became a season long starter. As a starter probably a bit lagging in the ability to “read” a defense and make line calls.​

Cameron Fleming

Experienced backup.​

Connor McGovern

Started as a freshman. Started 35 of 39 possible college games.​

Xavier Su'a-Filo

Experienced backup.​

Mitch Hyatt

A 4 year starter in college known for his advanced understanding of how to play the position.​

Larry Allen Jr.

Harvard​

Brandon Knight

From draft reports: Outstanding football intelligence and awareness in pass pro. Eyes work fast to process twists and stunts. He's a quick processor.​

Derrick Puni
Cody Wichmann
Adam Redmond
Jake Campos

Dez would feel completely out of place with these cerebral WRs.

 

[Cowboy4ever]

Acquiring players is a tricky thing and not everyone is good at it. Jimmy and Bill both drafted Football players that were athletes. Wade seem to draft athletes that played football. Garrett has gotten back to getting football players that are also good athletes. It makes a big difference IMO

 

[Stash]

A lot of work to try to blame the lame offenses of the past on Dez.

 

[Montanalo]

Cooper/Cobb vs Dez/TWill is like upgrading your son's science fair partner from Dexter Manley and Terry Bradshaw to a reincarnation of Albert Einstein and Stephen Hawking.

Great post, @xwalker. However, you get multiple "likes" from me for this sentence alone. Hilarious!!

 

[ItzKelz]

My biggest concern is a lot of glitz with no substance. If play calling sucks it will not matter how pretty the plays are.

 

[FuzzyLumpkins]

This is a review of the offensive with regards to football intelligence.

In order to use a more varied offensive scheme, the players must execute the new changes.

I'm confident that Kellen Moore can make the scheme much better and less predictable; however, my concern is that he might implement too many changes too soon. I don't think that will happen; however, it's always possible with a new coach or new (modified) scheme.

In the past the Cowboys were limited by a few dumb players like Dez and TWill.

The increase in intelligence just at the WR position as compared to 2017 and earlier is huge. Cooper/Cobb vs Dez/TWill is like upgrading your son's science fair partner from Dexter Manley and Terry Bradshaw to a reincarnation of Albert Einstein and Stephen Hawking.

Looney over-achieved his talent last year but getting Frederick back is huge with regards to the overall intelligence of the offense. They missed Frederick's line calls.


Wide Receivers
Amari Cooper

The best route runner in the NFL according to Aikman. Game knowledge appears to be off the charts.​

Michael Gallup

Advanced route runner in college. Adapted quickly as a rookie.​

Randall Cobb

Known for being a smart player. Very experienced.​

Noah Brown

The opposite of a ready-now player when drafted because injury limited his experience in college. Very polished as a blocker. Receiving ability (mental and physical) still in question. Was 4th in Special Teams Snaps played as a percent of possible ST snaps in the games that he played.​

Cedrick Wilson

Advanced route runner in college.​

Tavon Austin

Reported to be exceptional in regards to football knowledge in training camp last year.​

Allen Hurns

Might not make the roster, but is an experienced and versatile backup.​

Jalen Guyton
Jon'Vea Johnson
Devin Smith
Lance Lenoir Jr.
Reggie Davis

Tight Ends
Jason Witten

Extremely experienced (16 years). Just don’t ask him to explain football while in a TV game booth...
​

Blake Jarwin

Things seemed to “click” for him as a receiver as the 2018 season progressed. Reported to be in sync with Dak with regards to “seeing” the defense.​

Dalton Schultz

Adapted quickly as a blocker during his rookie season.​

Rico Gathers

Paraphrasing Forrest Gump “Not a smart man”.​

Codey McElroy

Running Backs
Ezekiel Elliott

Showed great attention to detail and understanding of defenses in 2018 including blocking/receiving as well as rushing.​

Tony Pollard

Saavy player based on game footage. In college showed a great understanding of the Memphis scheme which was unique and varied. He was a very versatile player and showed a good understanding of his roles as a lead blocker, runner and receiver.​

Jamize Olawale

Jack-of-All Trades type player.​

Mike Weber Jr.

From draft reports: Savvy, slippery runner who sets up blocks well at the point of attack. Quick to identify vacancies in the defensive front or when he needs to get his head around vs. pressure as a pass outlet. Has that "do it all" vibe. High motor player who has been the consummate teammate.​

Darius Jackson
Jordan Chunn

Quarterbacks
Dak Prescott

Adapted to the NFL very quickly as a rookie and as football smart (or smarter) as compared to other 4th year QBs.
​

Cooper Rush
Mike White

Offensive Linemen
Travis Frederick

Smartest player on the team according to teammates.​

Zack Martin

Technique master and was one of the most ready-now players his rookie season that’s ever come out of college.​

Connor Williams

Struggled physically as a rookie that was 296 pounds when drafted; however, mentally he adapted quickly to the NFL game and position change. The 4th ever player in UT history to receive All-American honors as a Sophomore.​

Tyron Smith

Ninth year.​

La'el Collins

They can’t all be smart.​

Joe Looney

Incredibly well prepared as a backup that became a season long starter. As a starter probably a bit lagging in the ability to “read” a defense and make line calls.​

Cameron Fleming

Experienced backup.​

Connor McGovern

Started as a freshman. Started 35 of 39 possible college games.​

Xavier Su'a-Filo

Experienced backup.​

Mitch Hyatt

A 4 year starter in college known for his advanced understanding of how to play the position.​

Larry Allen Jr.

Harvard​

Brandon Knight

From draft reports: Outstanding football intelligence and awareness in pass pro. Eyes work fast to process twists and stunts. He's a quick processor.​

Derrick Puni
Cody Wichmann
Adam Redmond
Jake Campos

Cedrick Wilson is not someone I would describe as polished in college. He ran post and goes. His underneath game left a whole lot to be desired much less double moves and option routes.

Gathers had not played organized football outside of middle school. He has made huge strides in all of his techniques and shown a feel for angle and ZBS concepts. He has more than a little knucklehead in him but you don't come as far as he has if he was a dummy.

 

[Legend]

On third and short, do not go to empty back set (where D knows a pass is more than likely to happen). Leave Zeke in, maybe add a FB, and then playaction... similar to play below.

 

[Oz-of-Cowboy-Country]

TLDR.

Stop myself as soon as he called Dez and T.will dumb. I've called people dumb before but only after I'd directly rubbed elbows with them.

So I wouldn't call Dez or T.Will dumb because I don't know them. I also wouldn't say the guys we have now are smarter.

Then again maybe X.WALKER administered an IQ test to these guys personally. But I haven't. Just saying.

 

[CowboyRoy]

This is a review of the offensive with regards to football intelligence.

In order to use a more varied offensive scheme, the players must execute the new changes.

I'm confident that Kellen Moore can make the scheme much better and less predictable; however, my concern is that he might implement too many changes too soon. I don't think that will happen; however, it's always possible with a new coach or new (modified) scheme.

In the past the Cowboys were limited by a few dumb players like Dez and TWill.

The increase in intelligence just at the WR position as compared to 2017 and earlier is huge. Cooper/Cobb vs Dez/TWill is like upgrading your son's science fair partner from Dexter Manley and Terry Bradshaw to a reincarnation of Albert Einstein and Stephen Hawking.

Looney over-achieved his talent last year but getting Frederick back is huge with regards to the overall intelligence of the offense. They missed Frederick's line calls.


Wide Receivers
Amari Cooper

The best route runner in the NFL according to Aikman. Game knowledge appears to be off the charts.​

Michael Gallup

Advanced route runner in college. Adapted quickly as a rookie.​

Randall Cobb

Known for being a smart player. Very experienced.​

Noah Brown

The opposite of a ready-now player when drafted because injury limited his experience in college. Very polished as a blocker. Receiving ability (mental and physical) still in question. Was 4th in Special Teams Snaps played as a percent of possible ST snaps in the games that he played.​

Cedrick Wilson

Advanced route runner in college.​

Tavon Austin

Reported to be exceptional in regards to football knowledge in training camp last year.​

Allen Hurns

Might not make the roster, but is an experienced and versatile backup.​

Jalen Guyton
Jon'Vea Johnson
Devin Smith
Lance Lenoir Jr.
Reggie Davis

Tight Ends
Jason Witten

Extremely experienced (16 years). Just don’t ask him to explain football while in a TV game booth...
​

Blake Jarwin

Things seemed to “click” for him as a receiver as the 2018 season progressed. Reported to be in sync with Dak with regards to “seeing” the defense.​

Dalton Schultz

Adapted quickly as a blocker during his rookie season.​

Rico Gathers

Paraphrasing Forrest Gump “Not a smart man”.​

Codey McElroy

Running Backs
Ezekiel Elliott

Showed great attention to detail and understanding of defenses in 2018 including blocking/receiving as well as rushing.​

Tony Pollard

Saavy player based on game footage. In college showed a great understanding of the Memphis scheme which was unique and varied. He was a very versatile player and showed a good understanding of his roles as a lead blocker, runner and receiver.​

Jamize Olawale

Jack-of-All Trades type player.​

Mike Weber Jr.

From draft reports: Savvy, slippery runner who sets up blocks well at the point of attack. Quick to identify vacancies in the defensive front or when he needs to get his head around vs. pressure as a pass outlet. Has that "do it all" vibe. High motor player who has been the consummate teammate.​

Darius Jackson
Jordan Chunn

Quarterbacks
Dak Prescott

Adapted to the NFL very quickly as a rookie and as football smart (or smarter) as compared to other 4th year QBs.
​

Cooper Rush
Mike White

Offensive Linemen
Travis Frederick

Smartest player on the team according to teammates.​

Zack Martin

Technique master and was one of the most ready-now players his rookie season that’s ever come out of college.​

Connor Williams

Struggled physically as a rookie that was 296 pounds when drafted; however, mentally he adapted quickly to the NFL game and position change. The 4th ever player in UT history to receive All-American honors as a Sophomore.​

Tyron Smith

Ninth year.​

La'el Collins

They can’t all be smart.​

Joe Looney

Incredibly well prepared as a backup that became a season long starter. As a starter probably a bit lagging in the ability to “read” a defense and make line calls.​

Cameron Fleming

Experienced backup.​

Connor McGovern

Started as a freshman. Started 35 of 39 possible college games.​

Xavier Su'a-Filo

Experienced backup.​

Mitch Hyatt

A 4 year starter in college known for his advanced understanding of how to play the position.​

Larry Allen Jr.

Harvard​

Brandon Knight

From draft reports: Outstanding football intelligence and awareness in pass pro. Eyes work fast to process twists and stunts. He's a quick processor.​

Derrick Puni
Cody Wichmann
Adam Redmond
Jake Campos

I think its the opposite. I think he's only going to do a few window dressing type changes as not to piss off the sensitive Garrett. He clearly needs to massage his way into changing the offense. Garrett is clearly offended by his presence.

 

[speedkilz88]

Cedrick Wilson is not someone I would describe as polished in college. He ran post and goes. His underneath game left a whole lot to be desired much less double moves and option routes.

Ourlad's gave him a nice write up.

2018 Guide: What Ourlads' NFL Scouting Services said about CEDRICK WILSON: Boise State, 6022 197 4.56. Started 19 games for the Broncos. From Memphis, TN. A former high school quarterback and transfer from Coffeyville Junior College. A good sized inside and outside receiver who was used in a variety of ways. He is the son of Cedrick Wilson Sr., a former NFL player. Has playmaking ability to his game everywhere. Good set of strong hands and is a natural hands catcher. He is a good route runner on all three levels. He has route savviness to him, creates separation with speed change in his routes and use of good stems. Uses his body lean to shield off defenders on the route, making a lot of successful catches in tight spaces. Adjusts while the ball is in the air with his extra gear. Good ability after the catch to break tackles in the open field. Wilson was successful running jet sweeps and reverses in the open field. Has some ability as a kick and punt returner. Does lack elite top end acceleration. Doesn’t create space for the quarterback to see separation on deep routes. Runs a little high and upright at times, exposing his chest to the defensive back. Has problems with aggressive press man coverage, getting his route timing thrown off. He is a good-sized, talented, instinctual playmaking prospect. 2017 stats: 83-1511, 18.2 ypr, 7 TD, 18-465 KOR, 25.8 avg. OSR:14/45. Fourth/fifth round. (A-31 1/2, H-9 3/4, VJ-37, SS-4.23).

 

[CowboyRoy]

TLDR.

Stop myself as soon as he called Dez and T.will dumb. I've called people dumb before but only after I'd directly rubbed elbows with them.

So I wouldn't call Dez or T.Will dumb because I don't know them. I also wouldn't say the guys we have now are smarter.

Then again maybe X.WALKER administered an IQ test to these guys personally. But I haven't. Just saying.

What more evidence do you need? You need to fully understand the concepts of route running AND the importance of it. Having the work ethic and knowing you will be better for it all is also a sign of intelligence.

NOT much about Dez indicated he was a smart guy.

Just listening to Cooper talk and Dez talk you can see a huge difference in not only the comprehensive ability to speak the English language, but the skills or lack there of in communication.

Then there is the ability to control emotions, leadership, saying the right thing, ect….ect….

All things that give an indication of intelligence levels.

 

[Bullflop]

This is a review of the offensive with regards to football intelligence.

In order to use a more varied offensive scheme, the players must execute the new changes.

I'm confident that Kellen Moore can make the scheme much better and less predictable; however, my concern is that he might implement too many changes too soon. I don't think that will happen; however, it's always possible with a new coach or new (modified) scheme.

In the past the Cowboys were limited by a few dumb players like Dez and TWill.

The increase in intelligence just at the WR position as compared to 2017 and earlier is huge. Cooper/Cobb vs Dez/TWill is like upgrading your son's science fair partner from Dexter Manley and Terry Bradshaw to a reincarnation of Albert Einstein and Stephen Hawking.

Looney over-achieved his talent last year but getting Frederick back is huge with regards to the overall intelligence of the offense. They missed Frederick's line calls.


Wide Receivers
Amari Cooper

The best route runner in the NFL according to Aikman. Game knowledge appears to be off the charts.​

Michael Gallup

Advanced route runner in college. Adapted quickly as a rookie.​

Randall Cobb

Known for being a smart player. Very experienced.​

Noah Brown

The opposite of a ready-now player when drafted because injury limited his experience in college. Very polished as a blocker. Receiving ability (mental and physical) still in question. Was 4th in Special Teams Snaps played as a percent of possible ST snaps in the games that he played.​

Cedrick Wilson

Advanced route runner in college.​

Tavon Austin

Reported to be exceptional in regards to football knowledge in training camp last year.​

Allen Hurns

Might not make the roster, but is an experienced and versatile backup.​

Jalen Guyton
Jon'Vea Johnson
Devin Smith
Lance Lenoir Jr.
Reggie Davis

Tight Ends
Jason Witten

Extremely experienced (16 years). Just don’t ask him to explain football while in a TV game booth...
​

Blake Jarwin

Things seemed to “click” for him as a receiver as the 2018 season progressed. Reported to be in sync with Dak with regards to “seeing” the defense.​

Dalton Schultz

Adapted quickly as a blocker during his rookie season.​

Rico Gathers

Paraphrasing Forrest Gump “Not a smart man”.​

Codey McElroy

Running Backs
Ezekiel Elliott

Showed great attention to detail and understanding of defenses in 2018 including blocking/receiving as well as rushing.​

Tony Pollard

Saavy player based on game footage. In college showed a great understanding of the Memphis scheme which was unique and varied. He was a very versatile player and showed a good understanding of his roles as a lead blocker, runner and receiver.​

Jamize Olawale

Jack-of-All Trades type player.​

Mike Weber Jr.

From draft reports: Savvy, slippery runner who sets up blocks well at the point of attack. Quick to identify vacancies in the defensive front or when he needs to get his head around vs. pressure as a pass outlet. Has that "do it all" vibe. High motor player who has been the consummate teammate.​

Darius Jackson
Jordan Chunn

Quarterbacks
Dak Prescott

Adapted to the NFL very quickly as a rookie and as football smart (or smarter) as compared to other 4th year QBs.
​

Cooper Rush
Mike White

Offensive Linemen
Travis Frederick

Smartest player on the team according to teammates.​

Zack Martin

Technique master and was one of the most ready-now players his rookie season that’s ever come out of college.​

Connor Williams

Struggled physically as a rookie that was 296 pounds when drafted; however, mentally he adapted quickly to the NFL game and position change. The 4th ever player in UT history to receive All-American honors as a Sophomore.​

Tyron Smith

Ninth year.​

La'el Collins

They can’t all be smart.​

Joe Looney

Incredibly well prepared as a backup that became a season long starter. As a starter probably a bit lagging in the ability to “read” a defense and make line calls.​

Cameron Fleming

Experienced backup.​

Connor McGovern

Started as a freshman. Started 35 of 39 possible college games.​

Xavier Su'a-Filo
Experienced backup.

Mitch Hyatt

A 4 year starter in college known for his advanced understanding of how to play the position.​

Larry Allen Jr.

Harvard​

Brandon Knight

From draft reports: Outstanding football intelligence and awareness in pass pro. Eyes work fast to process twists and stunts. He's a quick processor.​

Derrick Puni
Cody Wichmann
Adam Redmond
Jake Campos

Good stuff . . . as for our possible concerns, I'm hopeful that Moore would know enough to avoid bombarding his players with more information than what they're able to commit to memory and to execute effectively under pressure.

If he's really as sharp as advertised, I'd hope he'd know better than to implement too much change too soon. At least, we're now free from the play calling of Linehan at this juncture, so there's possibly, at least, a reasonable measure of hope for noticeable improvement.

 

[Jinxx13x]

This is a review of the offensive with regards to football intelligence.

In order to use a more varied offensive scheme, the players must execute the new changes.

I'm confident that Kellen Moore can make the scheme much better and less predictable; however, my concern is that he might implement too many changes too soon. I don't think that will happen; however, it's always possible with a new coach or new (modified) scheme.

In the past the Cowboys were limited by a few dumb players like Dez and TWill.

The increase in intelligence just at the WR position as compared to 2017 and earlier is huge. Cooper/Cobb vs Dez/TWill is like upgrading your son's science fair partner from Dexter Manley and Terry Bradshaw to a reincarnation of Albert Einstein and Stephen Hawking.

Looney over-achieved his talent last year but getting Frederick back is huge with regards to the overall intelligence of the offense. They missed Frederick's line calls.


Wide Receivers
Amari Cooper

The best route runner in the NFL according to Aikman. Game knowledge appears to be off the charts.​

Michael Gallup

Advanced route runner in college. Adapted quickly as a rookie.​

Randall Cobb

Known for being a smart player. Very experienced.​

Noah Brown

The opposite of a ready-now player when drafted because injury limited his experience in college. Very polished as a blocker. Receiving ability (mental and physical) still in question. Was 4th in Special Teams Snaps played as a percent of possible ST snaps in the games that he played.​

Cedrick Wilson

Advanced route runner in college.​

Tavon Austin

Reported to be exceptional in regards to football knowledge in training camp last year.​

Allen Hurns

Might not make the roster, but is an experienced and versatile backup.​

Jalen Guyton
Jon'Vea Johnson
Devin Smith
Lance Lenoir Jr.
Reggie Davis

Tight Ends
Jason Witten

Extremely experienced (16 years). Just don’t ask him to explain football while in a TV game booth...
​

Blake Jarwin

Things seemed to “click” for him as a receiver as the 2018 season progressed. Reported to be in sync with Dak with regards to “seeing” the defense.​

Dalton Schultz

Adapted quickly as a blocker during his rookie season.​

Rico Gathers

Paraphrasing Forrest Gump “Not a smart man”.​

Codey McElroy

Running Backs
Ezekiel Elliott

Showed great attention to detail and understanding of defenses in 2018 including blocking/receiving as well as rushing.​

Tony Pollard

Saavy player based on game footage. In college showed a great understanding of the Memphis scheme which was unique and varied. He was a very versatile player and showed a good understanding of his roles as a lead blocker, runner and receiver.​

Jamize Olawale

Jack-of-All Trades type player.​

Mike Weber Jr.

From draft reports: Savvy, slippery runner who sets up blocks well at the point of attack. Quick to identify vacancies in the defensive front or when he needs to get his head around vs. pressure as a pass outlet. Has that "do it all" vibe. High motor player who has been the consummate teammate.​

Darius Jackson
Jordan Chunn

Quarterbacks
Dak Prescott

Adapted to the NFL very quickly as a rookie and as football smart (or smarter) as compared to other 4th year QBs.
​

Cooper Rush
Mike White

Offensive Linemen
Travis Frederick

Smartest player on the team according to teammates.​

Zack Martin

Technique master and was one of the most ready-now players his rookie season that’s ever come out of college.​

Connor Williams

Struggled physically as a rookie that was 296 pounds when drafted; however, mentally he adapted quickly to the NFL game and position change. The 4th ever player in UT history to receive All-American honors as a Sophomore.​

Tyron Smith

Ninth year.​

La'el Collins

They can’t all be smart.​

Joe Looney

Incredibly well prepared as a backup that became a season long starter. As a starter probably a bit lagging in the ability to “read” a defense and make line calls.​

Cameron Fleming

Experienced backup.​

Connor McGovern

Started as a freshman. Started 35 of 39 possible college games.​

Xavier Su'a-Filo

Experienced backup.​

Mitch Hyatt

A 4 year starter in college known for his advanced understanding of how to play the position.​

Larry Allen Jr.

Harvard​

Brandon Knight

From draft reports: Outstanding football intelligence and awareness in pass pro. Eyes work fast to process twists and stunts. He's a quick processor.​

Derrick Puni
Cody Wichmann
Adam Redmond
Jake Campos

Absolutely love our depth on O-Line ---- I know there are only so many snaps to go around i was just a little shocked Olawale didn't get more opportunities last year. Hope they don't forget Pollard if he is the real deal !!! WR group has solid route runners and speed whats not to like ! Honestly i am really liking the way this team is coming together --- Just hope we don't have any serious injuries in camp and pre-season !

 

[Chocolate Lab]

LOL. What a reach this thread is.

 

[Oz-of-Cowboy-Country]

What more evidence do you need? You need to fully understand the concepts of route running AND the importance of it. Having the work ethic and knowing you will be better for it all is also a sign of intelligence.

NOT much about Dez indicated he was a smart guy.

Just listening to Cooper talk and Dez talk you can see a huge difference in not only the comprehensive ability to speak the English language, but the skills or lack there of in communication.

Then there is the ability to control emotions, leadership, saying the right thing, ect….ect….

All things that give an indication of intelligence levels.

So everyone that doesn't speak the way you would like them to is dumb. They must use your verbiage to be smart. Well I would like to inform you that people don't get nervous I front of the cameras.

T Will didn't go out of bounds, he's dumb. Dez can't run a china route he's dumb. Nooooo. Actually is less then favorable for the coaches to expect a guy that's 220lbs. to get open on a china route.

So excuse me if I refuse to call someone dumb that I've never rubbed elbows with. That's just me. To each it's own. But I plan on having all the right answers when I get to the Pearly Gates. So when the "Man Upstairs" ask you why'd you continuously call people names year after year? What are you going to say? Are you going to cop an attitude with him like you do with posters on this site?

GOOD LUCK WITH THAT.
I'm going to continue to be me. You be you. And let's see where we end up. The end.

 

[xwalker]

Cedrick Wilson is not someone I would describe as polished in college. He ran post and goes. His underneath game left a whole lot to be desired much less double moves and option routes.

Gathers had not played organized football outside of middle school. He has made huge strides in all of his techniques and shown a feel for angle and ZBS concepts. He has more than a little knucklehead in him but you don't come as far as he has if he was a dummy.

I was referring to Rico's knucklehead factor, not really his progress as a player. He's on the pace development wise that should be expected of a college basketball player.

Rico has big shoes to fill in regards to college basketball player turned NFL football player for the Cowboys and going into his 4th year.

Parnell was a college basketball player. During his 4th year in the NFL, he was The Swing Tackle and rotated series with Free in the final 4 games.

 

[LarryCanadian]

Ever watch "It's A Football Life" about Jimmy Johnson - he is on his boat talking about drafting player(s) and he says he to Belichik of all people I think: "Hit me in the head with a hammer the next time i pick a dumb guy". Football smarts/brains/intuition is an under-rated quality in a player sometimes.....

 

[JoeKing]

Training Camp in Oxnard Ca. can't get here fast enough.