DeMarco Murray-led ground game gives Cowboys playoff hopes

[morasp]

• 
• By Bucky Brooks
• NFL Media analyst
• Published: Sept. 23, 2014 at 05:02 p.m.
• Updated: Sept. 23, 2014 at 06:53 p.m.
• 243 Likes | 54 Comments

In past seasons, Jason Garrett's Dallas Cowboys have favored a pass-centric approach on offense. While it certainly made sense to rely on a Pro Bowl quarterback (Tony Romo) and a talented set of receivers (headlined by Dez Bryant), this game plan didn't help the Cowboys land a playoff berth, despite the fact that they routinely fielded one of the most explosive offenses in football.

With the 2014 Cowboys promising a new offensive approach built around a potent running game and diverse passing attack, I thought I'd take a long, hard look at the All-22 Coaches Film, to see if Garrett's attempt to become a blue-collar offense is sensible and effective, given the players on his roster. What I discovered: Dallas (2-1) finally has an offensive identity that could make it a viable threat in the NFC East.

Here are three reasons to think a more balanced offense is yielding fine results in Dallas:

1) The Cowboys have the best offensive line in football.


There are a lot of talented fronts in the NFL, but the Cowboys have assembled a young, athletic offensive line that absolutely dominates opponents at the point of attack. Part of their success has been fueled by the addition of three first-round selections (Tyron Smith, Travis Frederick and Zack Martin) over the past four drafts. Dallas has faced some criticism for constantly spending high picks on O-linemen, particularly with the Frederick selection, but the infusion of talent turned the unit into the team's biggest offensive strength. Thus, it is sensible for Garrett to transform the offense into a blue-collar outfit built around a run-centric approach.

Cowboys occasionally double-team an assigned defender at the point of attack, with a blocker instructed to work to the second level after the initial block is secured. These simple tactics help Dallas create a push at the line of scrimmage, enabling the running back to press the front side of the play or search for a cutback lane on the back side. When executed correctly, the zone-based running scheme allows disciplined runners to thrive against aggressive defenses.

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap30...ayled-ground-game-gives-cowboys-playoff-hopes

 

[Brooksey]

The running game and offensive line are certainly our strength, It will be interesting to see how far that can take us.

Can't wait for our offensive line to play Seattle's defensive front in Seattle. They are absolutely nasty.

That will be a true test.

 

[Trendnet]

I was impressed with play #3 in that breakdown.

Leary and Smith showed good ability on that pull, but I was more impressed with Frederick leading the way all the way downfield.

 

[DallasEast]

The running game and offensive line are certainly our strength, It will be interesting to see how far that can take us.

Can't wait for our offensive line to play Seattle's defensive front in Seattle. They are absolutely nasty.

That will be a true test.

The Seahawks game will a test/proof of DeMarco Murray's pass protection skills as well as his rushing ability. Murray is the best pass blocking back on the roster. He must bring his A-game in that area against Seattle's front seven.

 

[LittleBoyBlue]

The running game and offensive line are certainly our strength

Further explained...

We need to run, run for many reasons.... The most important reason is TOP... Ball control.

Have to reduce the amount of plays the defense had to play.

It's our only chance.

 

[big dog cowboy]

Here are three reasons to think a more balanced offense is yielding fine results in Dallas:

1) The Cowboys have the best offensive line in football.

Work in progress not there yet.

 

[cowboys1981]

The Seahawks game will a test/proof of DeMarco Murray's pass protection skills as well as his rushing ability. Murray is the best pass blocking back on the roster. He must bring his A-game in that area against Seattle's front seven.

If we can beat up Seattle's front 4, we'll have a shot. I can't wait for that match up!

 

[SacramentoKing]

Work in progress not there yet.

From what I've seen so far I think it's true

 

[21Savage]

Work in progress not there yet.

So who's there?

For you to make a statement like that then you have to present a clear number 1 right?

 

[DallasEast]

Work in progress not there yet.

True enough. The offensive line needs a stronger anchor at right tackle than Doug Free.

 

[DiResta]

the Cowboys were going to be historically the worst defense ever fielded during training camp. now playoffs. people are flipping out lol

if the Saints put up a 40 burger and shut down the offense players will be crucified here