The two play concepts I hope to see more in the future with 1) better player execution (especially the deeper route) and 2) better sideline and on-field presnap situational awareness of what the defense presents are:
2) Smash Concept
This is a high-low route combination on the outside that traditionally involves a hitch by the outermost receiver and a corner from the slot.
The Flat-7 variation was this team’s most frequently called smash route in 2018. Prescott’s overall completion percentage when they ran this concept was 57.1. He managed to make two explosive passes, one to Amari Cooper against the Eagles in Week 14.
The Cowboys’ receivers ran some form of smash at least 3.3 times per game, as it was their second-most used passing concept.
and
6) Bootleg
The bootleg is a play-action rollout pass. Its inclusion on this list should come as no surprise to anyone who watches the games.
Dallas runs some form of this play 2.5 times per game. Unfortunately, Prescott hits on only 56.8 percent of these designed rollouts.
IF the offense will continue 'staying the course' despite a possible change up in offensive coordinators, I think improvement with these two play concepts in particular will open up the offense. True, predictability will remain an asset for opposing defenses but that advantage can be made a liability by executing the plays better and calling them at the right time.
It will involve quarterback and receivers improving their timing, plus coaches and quarterback (via audible) defering to them more versus other commonly called play sets. Doing so will both take greater advantage of Prescott's mobility (e.g. bootleg) and soften up the opposing defenses' run prevent (e.g. smash/more emphasis and completion of corner route throws).
There is a whole offseason and training camp ahead for the offense having two dynamic #1 and #2 receivers especially. Get more flexibility out of the slot WITH those receivers. Make it happen.
