Blogging The Boys - Dallas Cowboys vs. Chicago Bears, 2022 NFL Week 8Dallas Cowboys, all the time...since 2005.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47663/Picture_4.png2022-11-04T15:30:00-05:00http://www.bloggingtheboys.com/rss/stream/231888112022-11-04T15:30:00-05:002022-11-04T15:30:00-05:00Finalizing stock up and stock down for the Cowboys from Week 8
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<p>Putting a pin in Week 8 for the Cowboys by reviewing what went right and what went wrong.</p> <p id="XWlX54">After eight weeks of the regular season, the <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Dallas Cowboys</a> headed into their bye week with a record of 6-2. The six wins from America’s Team thus far currently ties them for the second-most wins in the entire NFL. Given the trials and tribulations the franchise has gone through already, it is quite remarkable to be in the position that they are currently in. Kudos to this team as it seems to have that grit that some teams unfortunately do not possess.</p>
<p id="YVOWge">In Week 8, Dallas defeated the <a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/">Chicago Bears</a>, 49-29. With the score being what it was, for the most part, the Cowboys stock went up, but there is one area that still is a concern where the stock is trending in the down direction. Let’s break it down.</p>
<h3 id="PmlY7O"><strong>The passing game is starting to find it’s groove</strong></h3>
<p id="BxMziI">Although Cooper Rush guided the Cowboys to a 4-1 record while he was the starter, Rush is not an elite player and he was a backup for a reason. There was a considerable dropoff from a talent perspective going from Dak Prescott to Rush. Rush did a solid job by being a game manager and simply doing just enough to win football games. Prescott, on the other hand, is a game breaker, who does not necessarily need a great overall team performance to win football games. His talent alone, when applied properly, can guide the Cowboys to a lot more wins than losses as his career winning percentage currently resides at 62.5%. </p>
<p id="sR3GOf">At times, Prescott can be a little too free when delivering passes which explains the careless interceptions thrown by him from time to time. From Week 8, Bears defender Eddie Jackson cashed in on one of those careless attempts from Prescott by grabbing an interception. The decision by Prescott which led to that pick by Jackson was very poor, but for the rest of the game, Prescott started to look like his elite self again. In Week 8 alone, he completed nearly 78% of his passes for 250 yards and two touchdowns. This was the first time all season that Prescott looked like the player who received a hefty pay raise not too long ago. </p>
<p id="yH8O0F">These type of games from him are one of the main reasons why he is as well paid as he is. In the NFL, if you don’t have a franchise quarterback, more times than not you’ll be drafting early enough year in and year out looking for one of those quarterbacks. As much as folks complain about Dak’s price tag, he is an elite player who is one of the better quarterbacks in the league today. Be thankful to have him as a Cowboy, because the alternative probably isn’t ideal. As the Cowboys currently enjoy the bye week, it was good to see Prescott putting things together and looking more like himself. If Dallas intends to go deep into the playoffs, they’ll need Dak Prescott in form and it seems to be trending in the right direction.</p>
<h3 id="5RsK8n"><strong>The rushing attack proved to be in good hands without Ezekiel Elliott</strong></h3>
<p id="oGmsGP">Week 8 was a great performance by the lead back (at least this week), Tony Pollard. Pollard carried the mail just 14 times, but cashed in on three of those occasions for touchdowns. One of those three scores, included a tremendous 54-yarder where he was able to show off how electric he is with the ball in his hands. Pollard’s skill set is so flashy that it keeps opposing defense coordinators up late at night as they devise a way to slow him down. The rushing attack, without their lead dog Ezekiel Elliott, ran for 200 yards this past weekend. Prescott carried the ball five times, one of which resulted in a touchdown. Undrafted rookie Malik Davis also carried the ball eight times to help fill the void left by an injured Ezekiel Elliott. </p>
<p id="VZ0YH8">Although the ground game looked good without Elliott, he is still the focal point at the position for the Cowboys. Elliott has had a very solid career since joining the Cowboys in 2016. He’s certainly regressed as a player which is common for the running back position as a player gets close the age of 30. However, when you look at his numbers currently, he is still a quality NFL running back. His style isn’t as flashy as Pollard’s, but with each carry, he’s actually making things that much easier for Pollard. As Zeke pounds the rock as the lead back, he is softening up the defense to help open things up for Pollard. Again, Zeke isn’t flashy and he doesn’t need to be. This dynamic duo should continue to put up good numbers as long as they are given ample opportunities to do so. A balanced offense is key for the success of this team, and given the yardage from both the air and ground proved to be exactly what the Cowboys were looking for.</p>
<h3 id="keVzvw"><strong>The defense as a whole has been elite, but stopping the run is still a big concern</strong></h3>
<p id="BY48Ut">For the majority of this season, the Cowboys defense has been the driving force en route to the 6-2 mark while heading into the Week 9 bye. And it’s for a good reason - they are really good. In fact, this unit is one of the most elite defensive groups in the league today. However, the Dallas’ front office, to their credit, saw a weakness in this unit and made a trade. They wanted to shore up the weak spot which is run defense, so they acquired Johnathan Hankins from the Raiders. </p>
<p id="DaE2Eu">Hankins has been in the league since 2013 and was originally drafted in the second round by one of the franchise’s division rivals, the <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">New York Giants</a>. Acquiring Hankins for low end draft capital was low-risk, potentially high-reward move to shore up the issues in stopping the run. Through one game post Hankins trade, the team saw a significant increase in rushing yards given up when the Bears ran for 240 yards. Obviously, one game into a trade doesn’t mean the move was bad, but as the trade deadline passed, the team decided to stand pat and not make anymore moves. Let’s just hope that this rushing defense can improve in a hurry or it could come back to bite the Cowboys later on in the season.</p>
<p id="NAUXWq">All things considered, this was the most complete performance that the Cowboys put out as a team. They showed good balance on offense where they passed for 250 yards, and also ran the ball for 200 yards. The defense, even with the poor game in terms of stopping the ground attack, still performed well enough to help preserve a victory when Micah Parsons looked like a running back when he scored on the scoop and score. As long as the defense continues to work on stopping the run better, and then pairs that up with an ever-improving Cowboys offense, that should make for some great games ahead for America’s Team.</p>
https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2022/11/4/23438539/dallas-cowboys-week-8-chicago-bears-dak-prescottBrandon.Clements2022-11-02T19:00:00-05:002022-11-02T19:00:00-05:00Dak Prescott nearly flawless against Chicago | Week 8 all-22 film analysis
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<figcaption>Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Jump into the all-22 tape breakdown of the Cowboys offensive performance against the Bears.</p> <p id="tn7aCa">The <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Dallas Cowboys</a> offense was hyper-efficient Sunday against the Bears in a big 49-29 victory at home. They absolutely rolled on the ground, even a quarterback sneak popped for 20 yards in the second quarter. </p>
<p id="qRRwIA">However, what was most impressive after watching the tape was their 3rd and long passing game. It seemed like every time they faced 3rd and 7+ in the first half they had a quality route combination that gave them at least a chance at converting for a first down.</p>
<p id="3CLjmS">Their run-and-play action game was also highly effective when you watch the tape. They had guys running wide open on film because the <a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/">Chicago Bears</a>' defense had to react and commit to the run look.</p>
<p id="8GaVHb">The Cowboys also utilized an effective QB movement series, whether using a straight read zone concept or a traditional boot, it was highly effective when they got the ball into Dak’s hand.</p>
<p id="SElnR7">Today we are jumping into the tape to break down seven total clips, six good, and one bad. I hope y’all enjoy it!</p>
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https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2022/11/2/23437242/dak-prescott-cowboys-nearly-flawless-chicago-week-8-all-22-film-analysistjenkinselite2022-11-02T14:00:00-05:002022-11-02T14:00:00-05:00In the trenches: Cowboys lead NFL with 33 sacks, despite poor officiating on holding calls
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<figcaption>Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Dallas defensive front leading NFL in sacks, despite the Bears’ offensive line not getting called for holding on a pass play. </p> <p id="FRLAdH">It has been a few days since the <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Dallas Cowboys</a> defeated the <a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/">Chicago Bears</a> in a convincing 49-29 victory, with the Cowboys scoring the most points in a game across the NFL this season. Despite this great victory and how both the defense and offense performed, there was a looming shadow over the officiating of the game in the trenches, in particularly the Bears’ offensive line not being called for offensive holding on multiple occasions. </p>
<p id="gN9H0K">Micah Parsons, Dante Fowler Jr, and DeMarcus Lawrence all felt the frustrations when clear holding penalties were not picked up by officials. The Cowboys defense prevailed despite this, still managing to sack QB Justin Fields four times, and getting into the backfield recording seven tackles for loss.</p>
<p id="7o4QKF">The Cowboys got those four sacks from Lawrence, Fowler Jr, Osa Odighizuwa, and Jayron Kearse as they all made the Bears’ offensive line buckle under the pressure. </p>
<p id="23SKAd">Parsons, despite being held by offensive lineman Braxton Jones, managed to get back into the secondary to make a fumble recovery and not to be touched by Fields, making it a live ball that allowed Parsons to get to the endzone and score his first defensive touchdown. Parsons, who is among the top in most categories defensively, is one of the front runners for Defensive Player of the Year. </p>
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<cite>Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images</cite>
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<p id="y1SN9E">In this game the Cowboy’s pass rush did its job overall, pressuring Fields 21 times. However, during the pass rush, there were times the pocket would collapse allowing Fields to escape through the gaps. He rushed for 60 yards on eight carries. The Cowboy’s run defense had a much harder job on their hands as they struggled to contain the Bears’ rushing attack as they totaled 240 rushing yards with two touchdowns. </p>
<p id="6DITiE">With new Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins added to the roster, he was immediately put into the game. He played 33 snaps recording three tackles. With the Cowboys on their bye week, this will give more time for Hankins to adjust and understand the system that defensive coordinator Dan Quinn is implementing. </p>
<p id="0NwmcJ">Despite the Cowboys offense taking more of the headlines, the Cowboys still gave up a lot of rushing yards and it was the most points that were scored against the Cowboys this season. For the pass rush, the Cowboys are now sitting way ahead in front with 33 sacks, seven more than the <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">San Francisco 49ers</a> who are second with 26 sacks. </p>
<p id="bummVn">However, defensive coordinator Dan Quinn will have time to study the film over the bye week with defensive line coach Aden Durde and try to iron out the leaks in the run defense. They will prepare to go to Lambeau Field at the end of next week to face Aaron Rodgers and the <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Green Bay Packers</a>. </p>
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https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2022/11/2/23434370/dallas-cowboys-lead-nfl-33-sacks-micah-parsonsPaul-Stewart2022-11-02T09:30:00-05:002022-11-02T09:30:00-05:002022 Cowboys analytics roundup: Dak Prescott starting to dominate
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<figcaption>Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Advanced stats show the Dallas Cowboys are becoming a complete team. </p> <p id="zqLv97">The Cowboys enjoyed a ton of offensive success this week, putting up the highest point total of any team in any game all year en route to a 49-29 win over the Bears. Dak Prescott looked sharp and Tony Pollard ran for three touchdowns with Ezekiel Elliott out. Oh, and Micah Parsons scored his first touchdown.</p>
<p id="Ln2IXV">So where are the Cowboys sitting in the advanced analytics now? Spoiler alert: it looks good. With strength of schedule adjustments for DVOA-related metrics sitting at 70% strength, we’re starting to get a good idea of how this team is playing relative to the rest of the league. </p>
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<p id="55cFPh">The Cowboys remain third in overall efficiency, although their actual grade increased from 24.1% to 27.8%. That’s a sizable jump, and it has a lot to do with how much better the offense performed this week. The defense and special teams remain top three units, which is no surprise with how they’ve been playing. </p>
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<figcaption>2022 NFL Team Tiers, Weeks 1-8, courtesy of rbsdm.com </figcaption>
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<p id="htWvvR">As predicted in last week’s analytics roundup, the Cowboys are starting to drift to the right on these EPA-based team tiers. That’s a reflection of their offense improving since Prescott’s return. Now, they're only slightly below the league average in offensive EPA/play. In terms of total EPA, the Cowboys are now fifth in the league, just slightly ahead of the <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">49ers</a>. </p>
<p id="Y1xxtw">To get a better understanding of how much Prescott has boosted this team though, the Cowboys are third in total EPA over the last two weeks. There are obvious sample size issues with looking at something like that, but it does underscore the idea that the Cowboys are one of the NFL’s best with Prescott back under center. </p>
<h1 id="6dIdDF"><strong>Offense</strong></h1>
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<p id="cKpu3M">Any time an offense scores 40+ points in a game, the numbers are going to go up. The Cowboys were surgical on offense, reaching the endzone on each of their first four drives of the game. The Cowboys likely won’t be able to repeat that kind of success, but they only need to get close to it. They’re now just outside the top ten in offensive efficiency. </p>
<p id="Bd6Gf1">As good as Prescott was, though, the run game was more impressive. Pollard had a day to remember, and undrafted rookie Malik Davis saw success too. As a result, the Cowboys’ rush DVOA grade more than doubled, moving them up to second place. It will be interesting to see how that changes when Ezekiel Elliott returns to the lineup. </p>
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<p id="p61qL0">As with last week, we’re only looking at Prescott’s performance since returning for sample size reasons. That means no DVOA or DYAR scores for now, but it’ll change in due time. </p>
<p id="xzzeNm">Simply put, Prescott has been lights out these past two games. It obviously helps that he was so good against the Bears, but Prescott posted strong results last week too. It’s not enough to justify any arguments about Prescott being an elite quarterback - we need to see more this season first - but it’s good to know that the quarterback has been slinging it so far. </p>
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<p id="jCR56a">This offensive line continues to be one of the best at opening up running lanes for their backs. They’re in the top ten in rushing yards, adjusted line yards, and run block win rate. Rookie Tyler Smith has been especially dominant in run blocking, and he’s now tied for third among all tackles in run block win rate. </p>
<p id="GLsQRn">The line had one of their better days in pass protection, too. The only sack on the day was charged to running back Malik Davis. The five linemen combined to give up just four pressures on the day. Connor McGovern had a goose egg in that category for the second straight week. Meanwhile, Tyler Biadasz hasn’t allowed a pressure in three weeks and has yet to give up a sack. </p>
<h1 id="U2V5Ng"><strong>Defense</strong></h1>
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<p id="7QFppy">This just in: Micah Parsons is still incredible. He’s tied for second in the league in both sacks and pressures, and still leads all defenders in pass rush win rate. The Cowboys managed to get to Justin Fields four times, and the team still leads the league in both sacks and pressure rate. They’re very, very good against the pass. </p>
<p id="llyHqL">If you’re wondering why the Cowboys run defense only dropped one spot after getting carved up by the Bears, let’s examine it. The Bears were already operating one of the top rushing attacks in the game, so strength of schedule adjustments have something to do with it. But there’s also the fact that nearly 46% of the Bears’ rushing yards in that game came after Parsons’ fumble recovery touchdown, which put Dallas up by three scores. In other words, those were garbage time rush yards, and didn’t really hurt this defense as much as the raw box score would suggest. </p>
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<p id="KP9WNc">DaRon Bland once again held up well in place of Jourdan Lewis. He gave up completions on all four of his targets against the shifty Darnell Mooney, but also had a big pass deflection on what would’ve been a touchdown pass to Dante Pettis. It will be interesting to see how his numbers compare to Lewis’ as the season goes on. </p>
<p id="1czsHe">In other news, Israel Mukuamu filled in for Malik Hooker this week and performed admirably. Hooker has been having a phenomenal year so far, and he’ll slide right back into that starting role when he’s healthy, but it’s a testament to the depth of this secondary that Mukuamu came in with little dropoff in quality. </p>
https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2022/11/2/23435556/2022-cowboys-analytics-roundup-dak-prescott-micah-parsons-ezekiel-elliottDavid Howman2022-11-01T14:00:00-05:002022-11-01T14:00:00-05:00After further review: Dak Prescott and Tony Pollard steal the show, Johnathan Hankins makes his debut
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<figcaption>Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>A re-watch of the Cowboys game reveals some interesting facts that were missed on the first watch.</p> <p id="B4xU95">The <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Dallas Cowboys</a> enter their bye week with a record of 6-2. The last time this team started the season this good was way back in...well, it was last year. We all remember how great it felt for this team to get off to a hot start a year ago, but then things started to fizzle. They lost three of the four games they played in the month of November as it became apparent that something didn’t look right with Dak Prescott.</p>
<p id="TnCtHO">Things are different now. Instead of entering the bye week with their star quarterback dealing with a calf injury, they now have already weathered that storm. Prescott is back after missing five games with a thumb injury. The team is coming off a 49-point performance and a 20-point win, the highest mark of the season in both categories. It was a breakout game for the offense with some big defensive plays sprinkled in. Re-watching the tape showed how this Cowboys team got it done. Here are some things that we learned after further review.</p>
<h1 id="KeJnbu">OFFENSE</h1>
<h3 id="EHLsjz">Dak’s Back!</h3>
<p id="PmL4ww">We have all waited for this moment. Having Prescott play like he is capable of combined with the destructive force of this Cowboys' defense would be quite a daunting challenge for opposing teams. While the defense wasn’t its usual dominant self, the offense picked a great time to come alive, and Dak was back to doing Dak things.</p>
<p id="tEPfzZ">You could see a much more poised Prescott in the pocket. He was decisive with his throws and didn’t hesitate. He was only sacked once and that came when backup running back Malik Davis failed to pick up a blitz. Dak's grip looked very strong as released the ball with authority. He displayed great footwork and it helped him throw the ball with pinpoint accuracy. Prescott completed 77% of his passes on the day.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I was super impressed with Dak Prescott's mechanics on Sunday against the Bears. His footwork was outstanding, his internal clock was working, and he was letting it rip. This is the version of Dak Prescott that the rest of the league should be worried about. <a href="https://t.co/5ck7bu2nVP">pic.twitter.com/5ck7bu2nVP</a></p>— Dan Rogers (@DannyPhantom24) <a href="https://twitter.com/DannyPhantom24/status/1587185378972557312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2022</a>
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<p id="evC7BB"><strong>Fun fact:</strong> When Prescott completes at least 75% of his passes, the Cowboys never lose. They are a perfect 19-0.</p>
<h3 id="WbCPDl">Pollard is a special talent</h3>
<p id="OnNTcG">There is a large debate within Cowboys Nation as to who should be getting the majority of the work out of the backfield. Ezekiel Elliott is the hard-nosed veteran incumbent, and Tony Pollard is the electric “change-of-pace” back.</p>
<p id="6TpgVM">Coming into this year, Pollard has been the more efficient back, despite getting far fewer touches than Zeke. This year is no different; however, the Cowboys are gradually giving Pollard more and more work. That’s a wise choice as the Cowboys are a perfect 11-0 when he gets at least a dozen carries in a game. Usually, that is a stat that comes from a result of a favorable game script when the Cowboys have the lead and the team is allowed to go run-heavy where both Zeke and Pollard are getting plenty of touches. That was not the case on Sunday as there was no Elliott. It was all TP and boy was he something.</p>
<p id="ZoZuW0">The praise on Pollard is that he has more juice than Zeke. While that is evident, he is also very good at weaving through traffic while traveling at speed. This was why he was one of the best kick returners during his college days at Memphis. He cuts quickly and keeps his burst, blowing through any attempts at arm tackling, and then off in space he goes. And once he gets out in the open field, it’s over.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">If you give Tony Pollard creases, he will make great use of them. On Sunday, the Cowboys' offensive line was parting the orange sea. Pollard's vision, his swift jump cuts, his explosive burst...what a wonderful sight to see. <a href="https://t.co/raAZLbx0Z1">pic.twitter.com/raAZLbx0Z1</a></p>— Dan Rogers (@DannyPhantom24) <a href="https://twitter.com/DannyPhantom24/status/1587181786790260736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2022</a>
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<p id="TuGSpD">Pollard is averaging 6.2 yards per attempt this season compared to Zeke’s 4.1 yards per attempt. The Cowboys don’t have to pick one or the other right now, but they do need to find ways to get the ball into the hands of Pollard more frequently and it shouldn’t take an injury to Elliott to pull it off.</p>
<h3 id="KOUjsK">Dak can run too</h3>
<p id="czrL1h">It was funny to see Prescott scamper off for 20+ yards on a QB sneak, but that was just bad tackling by the Bears’ defense. Sometimes, you don’t even get a chance to miss a tackle if the play design is so well disguised that it has you going in all the wrong directions. The Cowboys had a lot of that going on in Sunday’s game. Here is one example of a clever goal-line play call.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I love this play design. The Cowboys have a lot of red zone weapons and Dak Prescott is one of them. <a href="https://t.co/mofCuzGqh0">pic.twitter.com/mofCuzGqh0</a></p>— Dan Rogers (@DannyPhantom24) <a href="https://twitter.com/DannyPhantom24/status/1587259980755128320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2022</a>
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<h1 id="r0OLaa">DEFENSE</h1>
<h3 id="IZj8qe">Hankins did exactly what he was supposed to do</h3>
<p id="iMZaWc">The Cowboys traded for the big nose tackle in the middle of last week and he saw 33 reps on Sunday. How did he do exactly? Well, the stat book showed the Cowboys get lit up for 240 yards on the ground, which is the most this defense has given up since that dreadful Mike Nolan season. But when you look closely at the tape, there’s a contrasting difference in how the running game looks when Hankins was in the trenches versus when he’s not.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Johnathan Hankins put some good things on tape in his Dallas debut. You couldn't move him and there were no running lanes in the middle when he was in the game. <a href="https://t.co/rer8kpIsBz">pic.twitter.com/rer8kpIsBz</a></p>— Dan Rogers (@DannyPhantom24) <a href="https://twitter.com/DannyPhantom24/status/1587173952681832449?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2022</a>
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<p id="IQygmg">And it wasn’t good when he was on the sideline.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Cowboys continue to give up big plays in the running game, and it's usually an assortment of mistakes that cause it. These mistakes were on display during this big 36-yard gain. <a href="https://t.co/CBH9vOJWQE">pic.twitter.com/CBH9vOJWQE</a></p>— Dan Rogers (@DannyPhantom24) <a href="https://twitter.com/DannyPhantom24/status/1587252764660621312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2022</a>
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<p id="hPPLNv"><em>(Note: video identifies Hooker when I meant Bland)</em></p>
<h3 id="KAerw3">The forgotten one</h3>
<p id="N2aett">The Cowboys didn’t splurge on free agency this year, but one guy they did get is veteran edge rusher Dante Fowler. The 28-year-old has made his share of mental miscues (such as lining up offsides that nullified a third-down stop), but he has also shown up quite a bit by making splash plays. He had one of his better games against the Bears as he was all over the place doing all kinds of things.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">If all you remember from Dante Fowler on Sunday is his offsides penalty, then you are not doing him justice. He was a game-wrecker against the Bears. What a fantastic free agent signing he's turning out to be. <a href="https://t.co/YPEN4WKM1J">pic.twitter.com/YPEN4WKM1J</a></p>— Dan Rogers (@DannyPhantom24) <a href="https://twitter.com/DannyPhantom24/status/1587166957509697536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2022</a>
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<p id="XN1sCh">With Micah Parsons killing it, DeMarcus Lawrence playing at a high level, Dorance Armstong breaking out, and even the rookie Sam Williams balling at times, Fowler is often forgotten about. He shouldn’t be though. This pass-rushing group is a never-ending smorgasbord of destruction and Fowler is a part of it.</p>
<h3 id="njlCpz">No Lewis, no problem</h3>
<p id="tCdwXH">This defense played its first game of the year without veteran slot corner Jourdan Lewis who is out for the year with a foot injury. While Lewis is a fiery competitor who plays with a lot of physicality, he does come with some flaws - size and speed.</p>
<p id="yNrMb6">Those negatives don’t exist with Fresno State rookie DaRon Bland, and he put both of them to good use at the right time against the Bears.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">DaRon Bland has great length and makeup speed. Both were on display in this touchdown-saving play against the Bears. <a href="https://t.co/58kI0r4gWP">pic.twitter.com/58kI0r4gWP</a></p>— Dan Rogers (@DannyPhantom24) <a href="https://twitter.com/DannyPhantom24/status/1587219218415915008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2022</a>
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<h1 id="lTFZ0D">SPECIAL TEAMS</h1>
<h3 id="nYnWe2">Hendershot’s a ghost!</h3>
<p id="QqQgpP">We’re at a point where if the Cowboys' special teams unit doesn’t block something, it’s a disappointment as they’re always up to something. They had a golden opportunity to block a punt had it not been for the skinny frame of UDFA rookie Peyton Hendershot.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">John Fassel is doing something at the line of scrimmage to confuse blockers. The Cowboys are frequently getting rushers into the backfield with little or no resistance. Peyton Hendershot must be a ghost this Halloween weekend because this one went right through him. <a href="https://t.co/TwPtJYJUER">pic.twitter.com/TwPtJYJUER</a></p>— Dan Rogers (@DannyPhantom24) <a href="https://twitter.com/DannyPhantom24/status/1587224536814346242?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2022</a>
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https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2022/11/1/23433889/cowboys-dak-prescott-tony-pollard-steal-show-johnathan-hankinsDan Rogers2022-11-01T12:30:00-05:002022-11-01T12:30:00-05:00Grading the Cowboys’ Week 8 victory over the Chicago Bears
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<figcaption>Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Handing out the report card for the Cowboys in all phases of their huge win over the Bears. </p> <p id="ZA2kbi">After eight weeks of regular season football, the <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Dallas Cowboys</a> sit at 6-2, after a 49-29 victory at home versus the <a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/">Chicago Bears</a>. Cowboys franchise quarterback Dak Prescott seemed much more comfortable in Week 8 which is a promising sign as the team heads into it’s Week 9 bye. The 20 point win marks the highest margin of victory for America’s Team thus far in 2022. Even with the margin of victory being what it was, not all of Week 8 was perfect, but it was a very promising sign for things to come for the remainder of this year. Let’s break down this week’s performance and handout some grades for each unit.</p>
<h3 id="tZpGEf"><strong>This was by far the best offensive performance of the year</strong></h3>
<h3 id="r3US3Y"><strong>Grade: A+</strong></h3>
<p id="57aLiu">Week 8 featured a breakout performance on offense and showed many what this team is capable of on this side of the ball when Dak Prescott is under center. Prescott put up the highest single-game passing totals from a Cowboys quarterback all season with 250 yards. What was most impressive about Dak’s performance in the air was the completion percentage of nearly 78%. He did make one mistake by throwing an interception late in the first half to Eddie Jackson, but other than that he played great football in Week 8. </p>
<p id="ZeaFeg">Not only was the passing game impressive, but so was the ground game led by Tony Pollard. Pollard, who got the start for an injured Ezekiel Elliott, had a tremendous game and only needed 14 totes to record 131 rushing yards and three touchdowns. That was a very efficient performance by number 20. His 9.4 yards a carry shows how explosive he was on Sunday and his 6.2 average a carry is second currently in the NFL. Pollard needs to continue to get touches. Even without Zeke in the lineup, Pollard carried the ball just a tad more than he normally does. </p>
<p id="4Zr59h">When Ezekiel Elliott returns to the lineup, presumably after the bye week, don’t be surprised to see the usage go back to what it has been all season with both Elliott and Pollard in the lineup. Ideally, Elliott maintains that grind-it-out role to soften up the defense for a Pollard tote to be a big gainer. That would be an ideal formula going forward which will help keep both players fresh as the regular season gets closer to the finish line. One thing is for sure, if Dak can continue to play like he did in Week 8, and the running game performs like it did this past Sunday, then it is going to make the Cowboys a tough out come playoff time.</p>
<h3 id="1G7F9x"><strong>The defense played well enough and did their job</strong></h3>
<h3 id="sNl467"><strong>Grade: B</strong></h3>
<p id="ixyTIW">On the defensive side of the ball, and as expected, the Bears ran the ball and did it well. Chicago ended the day with 240 yards on the ground which is the worst performance in that area of the game by this elite Cowboys defense all season. To ease the concerns of many, the last time the Cowboys gave up that amount of rushing yardage in a victory was in 1995. We know what happened that year and there is nothing better than winning that final game. Let’s just see if this kind of stat can rear it’s ugly head around <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> time at the end of this season. </p>
<p id="fhZGGE">Aside from the ground game being quite effective in Week 8, the pass defense was on its game as expected. It would be far more concerning to see Justin Fields light up this defense from a passing perspective as he hasn’t shown that skill set in his arsenal just yet. Fields definitely has plenty of game to him, and once he nails down the passing attack then it will lead to very good things for the future of the Bear franchise. Fields did what we all expected him to do, run effectively when needed, and throw when absolutely necessary. </p>
<p id="R4tnHQ">It was surprising to see that the Cowboys were unable to snag an interception from him this past weekend, but if it weren’t for a Chauncey Golston roughing the passer call then Trevon Diggs would’ve added that to the stat sheet. Regardless of how we all feel about the call, it turned out the way that it did and thankfully wasn’t the deciding factor in the game. Speaking of the deciding factor, Micah Parsons put the game essentially on ice when he scooped up a David Montgomery fumble while not being touched by anyone and taking it to the house for a touchdown. It wasn’t the best performance from this unit, but they still showed why they are one of the best in the NFL today. </p>
<h3 id="ox3iGC"><strong>Special teams was an afterthought for the most part, but performed well when they were called upon</strong></h3>
<h3 id="XPYJSz"><strong>Grade: B+</strong></h3>
<p id="gua1rJ">With the amount of points scored in Week 8, the special teams unit wasn’t overly busy aside from the point after touchdowns. Brett Maher nailed all seven of them in the game. KaVontae Turpin was effectively nullified on the afternoon as he was only able to garner three returns on the day for just 36 yards. It seemed like the Bears were trying to everything in their power to not give Turpin a quality look and they did just that. Bryan Anger was only needed for two punts in the game, but he sure did make the most of his opportunities as he averaged 71 yards a boot. As a complete unit, they simply did their job when called upon and didn’t give the Bears an extra opportunities by having any mental lapses. A solid job once again by this unit and let’s hope this continues the rest of the way.</p>
<p id="69CqEV">To put a bow on Week 8, the offense looked the way we’ve been accustomed to seeing them play over the most recent years. It was a complete game on offense, and it was very well balanced in both the air and ground game. The defense did give up a lot of rushing yards and the most points in a game this year, but we all know how good this unit is and these types of games can happen from time to time. The special teams group has been solid all season, and hasn’t put the team in harm’s way through eight games. KaVontae Turpin is due for a return touchdown and it’s coming soon. If all three facets of the game can put it altogether each week, then this team has all the makings of a major player come playoff time. There is plenty of regular season left to go, and things are only looking up from here. </p>
https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2022/11/1/23432994/grading-dallas-cowboys-week-8-victory-chicago-bearsBrandon.Clements2022-11-01T08:00:00-05:002022-11-01T08:00:00-05:00Crunching Cowboys stats from the win over the Bears
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<figcaption>It was a really big day for Pollard. | Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Cowboys statistics from the Bears game are some fun reading.</p> <p id="ZjZRqv">Despite missing multiple key players, the <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Dallas Cowboys</a> cruised to a big win over the <a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/">Chicago Bears</a>. It was something of a role reversal for the Cowboys, as the offense helped carry a defense that had some trouble getting the opponent off the field. A look at the stats from the game paints an interesting picture.</p>
<h3 id="xR8G6i">Time of possession is meaningless</h3>
<p id="BPwo5J">This is a number the Bears absolutely dominated, 36:04 to 23:56. Of course, this is a stat that often means nothing as far as who wins a game. It does, however, tell us a few things about how the game progressed.</p>
<p id="rFoiIZ">Chicago is very much a running team. Justin Fields only had 24 passing attempts, although several plays started out with an intent to pass, but he pulled it down and got yards on the ground. The Bears wound up with 43 running plays. That is one way to eat up clock, as you don’t have many incomplete passes to stop it, and pass plays also are more likely to end with the receiver going out of bounds. Of course, the four touchdown drives they mounted helped a lot in keeping the ball. Three of them lasted over six minutes.</p>
<p id="L5h3AC">In contrast, the Cowboys were a model of efficiency. Their first touchdown drive only took 4:42 off the clock - and it was by far their most time-consuming scoring drive all game. The other five were 3:12, 2:51, 2:35, 2:51, and 3:05. </p>
<p id="23phXV">A big reason Dallas was not using much time, especially in the first half, was their extensive use of a hurry up offense. They went no huddle on eleven plays in the first half, when they scored a touchdown the first four times they had a ball. It kept the Chicago defense from making adjustments and made it harder to get set for the snap. The Cowboys just didn’t need much time to race down the field.</p>
<p id="fwJ5OE">Further reflecting the incredible efficiency for Dallas was that they only had 58 total offensive plays to 79 for Chicago. If you are getting to the end zone so rapidly, you don’t care how many plays the other team holds the ball.</p>
<h3 id="Bp9tFc">A stellar day for Dak</h3>
<p id="AgWxpq">Just looking at the stat line doesn’t make this evident. He completed 21 of 27 passes for 250 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. He also added 34 yards and a touchdown rushing the ball, most on the somewhat humorous 25-yard quarterback sneak. </p>
<p id="36fdms">What was really good was the 8.6 yards per passing play, nearly double what Fields had. Clearly there was no need for Prescott to throw the ball more as they kept scoring. He was very accurate. He only took two fairly deep shots, the 30-yard completion to Dalton Schultz and the interception near the end of the first half. Otherwise, he was everything we had hoped he would be after returning from his injury. If he keeps this up, this is going to be a team to be reckoned with the second half of the season.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Pre-MNF, Dak Prescott was PFF's 3rd-highest graded passer in Week 8. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cowboys?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cowboys</a></p>— John Owning (@JohnOwning) <a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning/status/1587119041251987456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2022</a>
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<p id="SxOnYP">Raw numbers don’t tell the whole story.</p>
<h3 id="6ZVTaX">Pollard shines</h3>
<p id="h5AJzu">This is the opposite of the case with Prescott, as this stat line tells a legitimate story. Tony Pollards had 14 carries for 131 yards and <strong>three</strong> touchdowns, including the 54-yard score that padded his per carry average to 9.4 yards. He also had a 16-yard reception to bring his total touches to 15. The team needed a strong outing from him with Ezekiel Elliott inactive to allow more time to heal from his knee issue. Before the game, many were worried about holding Elliott out with the Cowboys still chasing the <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Philadelphia Eagles</a> to try and claim the NFC East crown. Pollard quickly silenced those concerns. </p>
<p id="Nkm3bY">Further, his ability to produce without having to amass a ton of carries means that the team will likely continue with its roughly 60/40 mix of carries between Elliott and Pollard. They may choose to give a bit more to Pollard in the <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Green Bay Packers</a> game coming out of the bye to help protect Elliott, and could also do so depending on other matchups. But Dallas has the luxury of two starting-caliber running backs, which means defenses get absolutely no break when they switch out. Pollard may continue to have more big play potential but that does not diminish Elliott’s value. The real key here is that the offensive line did a really good job opening up the running lanes. You can also add in the work of the tight ends, who so often have key blocks on good runs.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Love these young TEs and what they bring to the offense. It has given Kellen Moore new tools and he is putting them to good use. <a href="https://t.co/yd2vHRq7CU">pic.twitter.com/yd2vHRq7CU</a></p>— Massey ✭ ✌ (@TheJAMassey) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheJAMassey/status/1587124100048166912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2022</a>
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<p id="f0ZKJi">Also, I just wanted to throw this in here, because Tyler Biadasz is often overlooked.</p>
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<p lang="pl" dir="ltr">Pre-MNF, Tyler Biadasz is PFF's second-highest-graded OL in Week 8. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cowboys?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cowboys</a></p>— John Owning (@JohnOwning) <a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning/status/1587119518827962368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2022</a>
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<p id="eshxoR">The bottom line is that as long as Elliott and Pollard are combining for 150 yards or so on the ground, the run offensive is working. </p>
<h3 id="Xjn4xh">Offensive balance was obvious</h3>
<p id="hL2ueM">There is something of a debate about whether teams should rely more on the run or the pass. In their offensive explosion against Chicago, the Cowboys took the best course, choosing both. They had 242 net yards passing and 200 rushing. That kind of balance is a nightmare for opposing defenses, especially when you factor in the increased use of play-action since Prescott returned.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Dak Prescott when using play-action vs. CHI:<br><br>9 of 12 for 110 yards, 2 TDs and 1 big-time throw. 142.4 passer rating.</p>— John Owning (@JohnOwning) <a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning/status/1587094271542398977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2022</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">This means that since his return from injury, Dak has gone 20-of-25 for 231 yards and 3 TDs on play-action passes. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cowboys?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cowboys</a></p>— John Owning (@JohnOwning) <a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning/status/1587094685142482944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2022</a>
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<p id="MPjj38">Successful play-action does not rely on a strong running game, although Dallas certainly boasts that. What it does is make it impossible for a defense to diagnose what is coming based on personnel and formation. It can be a handoff or a pass. Prescott is able to read the defense and if necessary audible to get the right play. </p>
<p id="DhCYHd">This increased use is also another indication of just how Kellen Moore has done an excellent job this year. First he got enough out of Cooper Rush to get four wins while Prescott was recovering. Now he has put together back-to-back games with really strong outings for the quarterback and the offense in general. It is funny how much better having multiple ways to get the job done makes him look. But he deserves a lot of credit for how he is cooking things up.</p>
<h3 id="cdhMHf">A couple of woes got so much better</h3>
<p id="c1kP3N">The Cowboys were 9 of 11 on third down attempts, an 81.8% rate, and perfect on four trips to the red zone. Both are things that have plagued them this year. This was a dramatic turnaround, even a bit historic.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Cowboys improved from the No. 30 third-down offense during season's first seven weeks (32.2%) to now ranking 21st in category (37.8%). They converted nine of 11 attempts in Sunday's win over Bears, a 81.8% rate that was franchise's highest in game in at least 40 years.</p>— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/GehlkenNFL/status/1587037919696416769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2022</a>
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<p id="mFOUb4">That is how you score TDs on your first four possessions and hang 42 points on the opposing defense. These rates are likely not sustainable, but the Bears were statistically not a bad defense coming into the game. The ease with which Dallas ripped through them is one of the most positive signs from these stats.</p>
<h3 id="tJaxpW">The defense struggled - or did they?</h3>
<p id="Ggtyur">The Bears had a whopping 240 yards rushing, including 60 from Justin Fields. This just proves that the run defense is weak and has a particular problem with running QBs.</p>
<p id="4kKS2o">Except for this.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">We clearly need to explain that the smart teams WANT you to run the ball at them and appear "susceptible" to the run. Inviting the run is a real thing, folks.</p>— Bob Sturm (@SportsSturm) <a href="https://twitter.com/SportsSturm/status/1587097993722957827?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2022</a>
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<p id="nz9gBB">When you look at the Chicago offensive output, you must also consider that they only had 131 net yards passing. Fields threw for 151 yards, plus backup Tyler Siemian had one five-yard completion, but the 25 yards on four sacks brought the overall total down. Don’t forget that 110 yards of that total came after the Cowboys went up by 20 in the third quarter. They had a lead that allowed them to focus on preventing big gains through the air. Having the Bears work down the field for a touchdown while eating 6:20 off the clock was acceptable, especially when they were able to answer on the next drive with another rapid score.</p>
<p id="9Ws4S2">Yes, we can hope to see them improve in run defense, but things may be better than it first looks. </p>
<h3 id="y4otAq">Penalties were a wash</h3>
<p id="cTS3Jt">Both teams had six infractions accepted against them, and Chicago was slightly worse in yards at 45 to 41. This is still something that needs to be cleaned up by Dallas, but it was at least an equitable situation.</p>
<h3 id="L0rjdw">Snap count notes</h3>
<p id="enGEP7">Something you may not have noticed was that rookie LB Damone Clark saw his first game action since being drafted. He was recovering from a herniated disc that required surgery after the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-combine">NFL Combine</a>, something that doctors for the Cowboys first noted. He was expected to go much higher in the draft before the diagnosis. Instead, Dallas took him in the fifth round. It was questionable if he would even see the field this year, but his recovery went much better than expected. </p>
<p id="csH2dv">Before the game, it was thought that he would mostly play special teams, but he wound up on the field for 51% of the defensive snaps because of the Anthony Barr injury. He would have one solo tackle and five assists as the defense was swarming to the ball. That is impressive given his circumstances, and he could wind up a real steal.</p>
<p id="cQzXuD">Another player seeing his first action in a Cowboys uniform was Johnathan Hankins, who was just acquired in a trade with the <a href="https://www.silverandblackpride.com/">Las Vegas Raiders</a>. Hankins was in on 42% of the defensive downs, and was credited with three tackles. His role as a space-eating, hard-to-move nose tackle is about more than just that, as our Dan Rogers points out.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Johnathan Hankins put some good things on tape in his Dallas debut. You couldn't move him and there were no running lanes in the middle when he was in the game. <a href="https://t.co/rer8kpIsBz">pic.twitter.com/rer8kpIsBz</a></p>— Dan Rogers (@DannyPhantom24) <a href="https://twitter.com/DannyPhantom24/status/1587173952681832449?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2022</a>
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<p id="6ahUYw">This could be another low cost addition that really pays off. Defensive end Dante Fowler was also a bargain acquisition, this time in the offseason, and he had a stellar game with five tackles, a sack, a QB hit, a couple of TFLs, and a pass defended. Since Dan does such a great job with his video cutups, let’s include the one he did for Fowler.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">If all you remember from Dante Fowler on Sunday is his offsides penalty, then you are not doing him justice. He was a game-wrecker against the Bears. What a fantastic free agent signing he's turning out to be. <a href="https://t.co/YPEN4WKM1J">pic.twitter.com/YPEN4WKM1J</a></p>— Dan Rogers (@DannyPhantom24) <a href="https://twitter.com/DannyPhantom24/status/1587166957509697536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2022</a>
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<p id="EyqAqF">Let’s continue the theme of low cost talent additions. Jason Peters continues to slowly increase his participation, playing 13 snaps at LG, or a bit over a fifth of the offensive plays. He was pointed out during the broadcast as part of why the running game was clicking for the Cowboys.</p>
<p id="N1Mb4W">As we saw with the list of inactives on Sunday, depth is key. All four of these players are part of that equation, and right now, we should be very happy with the results.</p>
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https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2022/11/1/23433168/dallas-cowboys-stats-chicago-bears-tony-pollard-dak-prescottTom Ryle2022-10-31T16:30:00-05:002022-10-31T16:30:00-05:002022 Cowboys rookie report: DaRon Bland comes through again
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<figcaption>Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Cowboys rookie class is doing very well in 2022.</p> <p id="Afb1w3">The Cowboys were flying high in their win over the Bears this Sunday, and they’ll be rewarded with a week of rest now. It comes at the perfect time, as the Cowboys were dealing with several injuries that forced rookies into more prominent roles this week. Let’s take a look at how they did.</p>
<h1 id="OWBMnK"><strong>OL Tyler Smith</strong></h1>
<p id="rT1i5w">Tyler Smith had a very welcome return to form this week. After giving up eight pressures and three sacks in the last three games, Smith was charged with just one pressure and no sacks against Chicago. Some of that may have had something to do with the Bears trading away Robert Quinn, but Smith is still deserving of flowers. </p>
<p id="iRY9Ym">Smith was also, as usual, a force to be reckoned with in the run game. That’s been his bread and butter this year, while pass protection has been his area of weakness at times. It was good to see Smith have a good showing in that aspect this week after struggling lately.</p>
<h1 id="exodht"><strong>EDGE Sam Williams</strong></h1>
<p id="ohx0q0">Sam Williams was inactive this week after being limited in practice with a knee injury. It’s not expected to be serious, but more of a case of the Cowboys being cautious before the bye week. </p>
<h1 id="KYFndx"><strong>WR Jalen Tolbert</strong></h1>
<p id="LvWZxt">With Noah Brown ruled out for this game, it seemed as if Jalen Tolbert might have a very real chance of finally making an impact. Then, Tolbert came onto the field for the first play of the game, making this his first official start. </p>
<p id="HYIsdJ">That was pretty much it, though. Tolbert played on just 43% of the offensive snaps and didn’t see a single target in the passing game. Tight ends Dalton Schultz and Jake Ferguson saw significantly more snaps, as Dallas ran more 12 personnel in this game in lieu of playing Tolbert more, and even Peyton Hendershot was only four snaps behind Tolbert. </p>
<p id="V7U3HC">Perhaps the bye week will afford Tolbert more of an opportunity to find an identity within this offense. But with Brown likely to be healthy in two weeks, and James Washington nearing a return, that identity may end up squarely on the bench. </p>
<h1 id="a5vkah"><strong>TE Jake Ferguson</strong></h1>
<p id="Lacotr">Dalton Schultz might still be playing through pain, but he looked like his former self on Sunday. That meant less opportunities in the pass game for Jake Ferguson, who only saw one target on the day. However, he caught that lone target for a touchdown and proceeded to execute a pretty awesome celebration.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Come for the <a href="https://twitter.com/jqfergy11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jqfergy11</a> TD. Stay for the rodeo celly! <br><br> : <a href="https://twitter.com/NFLonFOX?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NFLonFOX</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CHIvsDAL?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CHIvsDAL</a> <a href="https://t.co/6hZLFiKflx">pic.twitter.com/6hZLFiKflx</a></p>— Dallas Cowboys (@dallascowboys) <a href="https://twitter.com/dallascowboys/status/1586781189826043904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2022</a>
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<p id="QYup04">Ferguson still saw plenty of action though. He played on just over half of the offensive snaps and, as has been the case all year, did a lot of work as a run blocker. Ferguson has been willing to do the dirty work for this offense, and it’s nice to see him get rewarded for it in the endzone. </p>
<h1 id="UCfLMK"><strong>OT Matt Waletzko</strong></h1>
<p id="8todnf">Matt Waletzko is on the injured reserve. </p>
<h1 id="GotD92"><strong>CB DaRon Bland</strong></h1>
<p id="4x6Kid">DaRon Bland already played a full game as the top nickel corner, but this week he actually prepared for the increased role ahead of time. More than that, the Bears had a full week to figure out how to attack him. So how did Bland hold up? </p>
<p id="xpkd5D">Bland’s five targets tied with Trevon Diggs for the most in the game. Bears slot receiver Darnell Mooney made up four of those targets, and Mooney caught all four of them for 62 yards; two of those catches went for first downs. </p>
<p id="IY4Wvq">Bland’s other target, though, came on a deep shot to the endzone for speedster Dante Pettis. On the replay, it appeared that Pettis dusted Bland for what should’ve been an easy touchdown. However, Bland displayed excellent makeup speed to close on it and actually break up the pass. The rookie struggled against Mooney, though that was to be expected. But Bland still showed the kind of promise that moved him up the depth chart during the preseason. </p>
<h1 id="QY9eOO"><strong>LB Damone Clark</strong></h1>
<p id="HLuJD5">What a story for Damone Clark. He had spinal fusion surgery ahead of the draft and the expectation was that he wouldn’t play at all this season. But Clark managed to be added to the roster earlier this week and practiced well enough to be active on game day. </p>
<p id="1YSgaQ">Clark was expected to play solely on special teams, but when Anthony Barr went down early in the game, Clark was asked to step up. He ended up playing 40 snaps on defense, more than the recently acquired Johnathan Hankins and other veterans like Dorance Armstrong and Neville Gallimore. Clark finished with six tackles on the day and showed off his impressive speed.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Damone Clarke hit 22.19 MPH chasing Justin Fields today. That is the fastest time in the NGS era by a Linebacker.<br><br>I guess Parsons wasn't kidding when he said Damone was faster <br><br>Parsons best time ever is 20.41</p>— Ratings Adjustin Smith (@Equipment_Guru) <a href="https://twitter.com/Equipment_Guru/status/1586920155673763843?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2022</a>
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<p id="Xepvk9">Clark is likely going to return to his special teams role when Barr heals up, but it was promising to see him look so fluid after stepping into a larger role than anticipated in his NFL debut. Clark was considered a top linebacker prospect before his surgery, and it’s easy to see why. </p>
<h1 id="LXpzJ0"><strong>LB Devin Harper</strong></h1>
<p id="0L2eeA">Devin Harper was added to the injured reserve ahead of this week’s game, though it seems like he’ll be able to return later in the year. </p>
<h1 id="XjGjw8"><strong>TE Peyton Hendershot</strong></h1>
<p id="FFFXvG">Much like Ferguson, Peyton Hendershot has done a lot of the dirty work this year. He got rewarded with his first career touchdown last week. Hendershot didn’t repeat that performance this week, but he had another solid game. </p>
<p id="WejRHe">Hendershot played on just over a third of the offensive snaps against the Bears and hauled in both of his targets for a total of 15 yards; both catches went for a first down. Hendershot has been a nice revelation this season, and he offers a ton of flexibility to this offense as the third tight end. </p>
<h1 id="xTGP0p"><strong>S Markquese Bell</strong></h1>
<p id="Ikx0R8">With Malik Hooker out for this game, Markquese Bell found himself back on the game day roster. While his normal role would’ve been to help on special teams, Bell found plenty of snaps on defense as all three of the safeties ahead of him missed minimal time with minor injuries at one point or another. </p>
<p id="foZq4B">All told, Bell played on 15 snaps on defense and 17 snaps on special teams. He didn’t see much in the way of real action, but it speaks to just how deep this safety room is right now. </p>
<h1 id="QuHVgc"><strong>RB Malik Davis</strong></h1>
<p id="U0atRq">Malik Davis deserves a ton of credit. Less than a month ago he was on the practice squad, and this past Sunday he was tasked with spelling Tony Pollard as the backup running back. He finished the day with 23 yards on eight carries and added 18 yards on two receptions, including one that very nearly went for a touchdown. </p>
<p id="AAf1PP">Davis will return to his special teams heavy role as the third running back after the bye, when Ezekiel Elliott returns, but it was a big day for the undrafted rookie. And with the Cowboys having contract decisions to make this offseason regarding both Elliott and Pollard, it’s nice to know that they have another guy in Davis who can make plays. </p>
https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2022/10/31/23432976/2022-cowboys-rookies-daron-bland-tyler-smith-jake-fergusonDavid Howman