CFZ Looking at the Cowboys through a different lens

[Verdict]

Isn't he supposed to be simplifying things? I don't see how becoming more simple makes you less predictable. If anything, I'd think having less option routes and simpler reads would make you more predictable.

I was not clear. “Predictable” as used in my earlier context was intended to relate to predictability of calling a run or a pass on a particular play regarding down and distance or in a particular situation.

 

[Verdict]

Here is how I’m looking at it:

There is no way Pollard can hold up as the number 1 RB through 17 games and playoffs

As currently constructed we have no shot against Philly or SF without a 100% healthy Pollard who is fresh and available for the entire game

If we don’t get another 1a RB we are toast

I think there is a reasonably good chance that Pollard and Deuce are 1a and 1b.

 

[TwoDeep3]

Let’s say you are the 49ers and you are looking ahead at your options for getting to the SB. That road has two probable road blocks in Dallas and Philly.

You beat Dallas two years in a row in the playoffs. Dallas improved year over year.

Your QB isn’t a big time passer and you need to beat teams by running the ball. Dallas mostly shut down your running game in the 2023 playoff game with a few notable exceptions.

You see that Dallas has added potentially the best RUN STOPPING DT in the draft. Dallas has also added a top flight corner in Gilmore and Hankins back into the fold. Suddenly you start to think —-points are going to come at a premium against this team. And if this version of the Cowboys can keep you behind the chains, Parsons and Co are going to EAT.

On offense they get Pollard back and added the former first rounder Cooks in to the mix. MM is calling plays now so the play calling may force Dak’s hand and the passes may be less predictable. A long handoff to Deuce may pick up 9 on 3rd and 2.

I realize this is all conjecture at this point, but keep this thought process in the back of your mind when you start feeling a bit uneasy about SF or Philly.

I believe this exercise you have begun will prove to be thoughtful. I hope people stick with the premise.

But allow me to alter one aspect of your scenario.

I have noticed over the last week or so you mention losing twice to the 9ers. True is true. But I would like to point out one element which perhaps changes the dynamic slightly.

The offensive line play had eroded over the last quarter of the Cowboy's regular schedule. They lost any semblance of the running game when Pollard went down. And Jerry, in his foolish ways, gutted the WR corps of a playmaker, and an individual which made the other receivers better.

Dallas gave up 19 points. I understand woulda, shoulda, coulda. But the thesis your proposed implies they are moving away from Dallas. What I believe is the results indicate Dallas is catching them.

I'll be interested to see Dallas shut down their running game and put the contest in the hands of their boy wonder. If the offensive line of Dallas can improve this season, I like the odds Dallas sends them home in the play-offs.