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 i
s 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
,that Commander proved out to be a formidable foe when facing US,,,& BRADSHAW's somewhat semi literate spelt signature across OUR forehead is still legible when viewed
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