Jason Garrett says La’el Collins won’t practice today, calls Randall Cobb a “pain in the ass”

It’s time to flip the script and start preparing for the Packers. Let’s find out what coach Jason Garrett has to say about that. (All answers are paraphrased and not actual quotes).

[UPDATE:]

Facing Aaron Rodgers

The Cowboys have faced Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers a few times and asked if there is a specific play that comes to mind, Jason Garrett simply noted that Rodgers is an extremely good player, among the best ever at QB. He commented on how the games have come down to the wire and that he makes a lot of game-defining plays.

Michael Gallup

Jason Garrett noted that Michael Gallup will indeed be limited in practice on Wednesday. He complimented Gallup on his growth as a player and said the mid-point of last season was when things really started to click and that he had his best game against the Rams in the playoffs.

Tyrone Crawford will not practice on Wednesday

Jason Garrett did say that the team was hopeful that as the week goes on that he’ll be able to practice. He also added that this is something they anticipate him having to manage all season. He noted they really miss his versatility, his leadership, and the way he does the dirty work that lot of people don’t notice.

Christian Covington has done very well

Coach said it’s obvious he’s a vet in the league by the way he plays, noting his relentless effort and good technique.

Thoughts on Matt LaFleur

Asked how much he knew about Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur before this season started Jason Garrett was honest in saying not much. He noted that he has a lot of respect from LaFleur from afar.

Jaylon Smith’s versatility

Jason Garrett reiterated that versatility very much matters and that someone who’s able to do different things is really beneficial for the overall group. He commented on Smith’s ability to play the MIKE in both the base and nickel, then in sub-packages he can line up as a defensive lineman and rush the passer. He did say you want to balance that versatility but with such a deep linebacker corps they can move guys around into different roles.

Achieving balance

There’s been a lot of talk about the Cowboys running more than they usually have but Jason Garrett has stressed balance. He noted that you want to be able to run and pass and do both in different ways.

Dynamic that Michael Gallup provides

Coach noted that when you throw Gallup the ball (whether short, medium, or deep) that good things happen and that he can consistently win against one-on-ones. He did mention that the Cowboys feel good about the players that they’ve been playing in Gallup’s absence.

Tougher for Amari Cooper without Gallup?

Asked if Gallup’s absence has made things tougher for Amari Cooper Jason Garrett noted that he feels circumstances are always tough.

Randall Cobb was “a pain in the ass” with Green Bay

Obviously Randall Cobb had a lot of success with the Packers against the Cowboys and Jason Garrett is fully aware of that. He noted that the team really liked what they saw from Cobb which is why they wanted to sign him when they could, noting he was a “pain in the ass” when they played against him and he always makes big plays at big moments.

Tyron Smith won’t practice on Wednesday

Coach said they will monitor him as the week progresses.

La’el Collins will not practice on Wednesday

He’s got a back injury that he’s dealing with.

Connor Williams and Cam Fleming will be the tackles

Instead of calling on a backup tackle for Collins (and Fleming already taking Smith’s spot), the Cowboys will move Williams out there and fill in his guard spot.

Couple of miscellaneous items: