The Best Defense Is a Better Offense: Will the Cowboys Have a Juggernaut Offense?

The 2018 campaign was a roller-coaster ride that held many surprises, one of which was the defense stepping up. However, this upcoming season we could see a change as the offense looks to become a force to be dealt with.

There have been many moves that can skyrocket this team to a top 5 offense in the league.

Last year we saw Dallas begin the season without a true “X” receiver which led them to a sub-par .500 record after 7 games. During their bye week, Dallas made a trade to acquire Amari Cooper which turned the tide for the Cowboys. In 11 games (including both playoff games) Cooper caught 7 touchdowns along with over 850 yards. Now with a full off-season to work alongside Dak Prescott, Cooper will set out to have a record-breaking year. Alongside Cooper will be the second-year receiver, Michael Gallup, who showed great potential by finishing his last 6 games with over 300 yards and 2 touchdowns. Gallup has shown off his speed, and ability to fight for the football at its highest point. A breakout sophomore year could be in the works that will make secondaries think twice about taking him lightly. Replacing Cole Beasley as the slot is tough, but what better way to do it than with a veteran like Randall Cobb. Cobb’s knowledge of the game will make him a mismatch for defenses, especially with Cooper and Gallup taking up most of the attention.

Cowboys Offensive Line — Photo: The Intelligencer

The offensive line has been a key point for Dallas since 2013 when they drafted Travis Fredrick. After Travis, Zack Martin followed to create a phenomenal duo in the center of the line. Both players have been All-Pro multiple times which has been a big part in the success behind the rushing attack. To the left of Fredrick is another sophomore who is looking to make his mark. Connor Williams has put on muscle weight by tagging up with fellow guard, Zack Martin, and working on getting stronger. On the far left side will be the veteran tackle Tyron Smith. When playing at his best, Smith is the top tackle in all of football as he shrugs off defenders with his incredible strength. Their right tackle, La’el Collins, is on a contract year in which he needs to show everyone what he’s capable of. This helps Dallas by giving them a player that will play harder than ever as he looks to showcase his abilities for Dallas as well as the entire league. This line is looking better than it has since Ronald Leary and Doug Free were wearing the Star.

The culture in Dallas changed once they decided to draft Ezekiel Elliott. Since entering the league Zeke has won 2 out of the last 3 rushing titles. His incredible ability to be an all-around player has been a huge benefit for the Cowboys. After seeing Todd Gurley and Le’Veon Bell receive big contracts, Zeke will be out to prove something this season. Although he’s already shown the kind of player that he is, he’ll be looking to put a staple on him being the best running back since Adrian Peterson. Zeke could be in for an MVP season that could catapult this team to great success. Dak has also been a big part in the success of Dallas. In 3 seasons, Dak has led this team to multiple division titles along with a playoff win. He’s proven to being a great leader for his team, and clutch once the game is on the line. In 2018 Dak ranked second, only behind Drew Brees, in most game-winning drives. Much like La’el Collins, Dak is also on a contract year in which he looks to earn that huge payday. With the new contract in eyesight, Dak will look to have his best season yet in order to become one of the league’s highest-paid players.

While the talent is here for Dallas, a team is only as strong as their weakest link. In Dallas’ case, it could be their first-year offensive coordinator, Kellen Moore. Moore has spent more time with Dak than anyone else on the staff which serves as a great advantage. He’s also had plenty of time to sit back and study the team’s strengths behind the scenes.