All Things Click – Cowboys def. Redskins 31-16
Oct 13, 2013; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive end Kyle Wilber (51) celebrates a fourth quarter fumble recovery against Washington Redskins at AT
The Dallas Cowboys came out strong against their division rival, marching down the field for a score on the game’s very first drive. A Sean Lee tackle meant that the Redskins would only kick a field goal on their possession. Next drive: Cowboys TD. After that? Redskins FG.
Dare I say it: Sunday night’s game was like a flashback of early ’90s Cowboys football. It’s been a while since this team could build a lead and hold it in such a commanding fashion. It says a lot about the improvement of our defense and the maturity of the offense.
Tied with the Eagles (next week’s opponent) at 3-3, the Cowboys have played a lot better than what their record would indicate. Things just seemed to click, as there were major contributions from the offense, defense, and special teams.
Rookie Terrance Williams is continuing his progression, as he made a rather amazing catch in the corner of the end-zone in the third quarter. Tony Romo escaped pressure and flinged it high and hard to the 6’2 Williams, who looked back, extended his arms, and had the presence of mind to keep his toes on the ground while reeling the ball in.
Oct 13, 2013; Arlington, TX, USA; Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) sits on the bench during the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT
Sad to say it, but Williams probably developed such skill after countless bullet passes from college teammate Robert Griffin III. It was, however, the Baylor Bear-turned-Cowboy who had the better game, for RGIII is probably still shaking the rust off after his ACL surgery. It was clear that the young man could not move or throw as well as he did in his first meetings with the Cowboys, but let’s not take anything away from the blue and silver defense.
The pass rush did not stop once, and if not for a 45-yard TD run ny Alfred Morris, run=stopping efforts would be just as highly touted. The Cowboys landed five hits on Robert Griffin, but such a number doesn’t account for the ever-collapsing pocket RGIII dealt with all game.
Perhaps the most notable aspect of the D-Line’s performance is the personnel who executed. An injury, the nature and impact of which is still being learned, meant DeMarcus Ware had to hit the showers early. Not to worry, though, as guys like Nick Haden and Kyle Wilber, plus newcomers Ceasar Rayford and Drake Nevis, each made a name for themselves on primetime television.
Speaking of making a name for yourself: Dwayne Harris has emerged as a true playmaker on kick returns. For years, fans have known about Harris’s speed and agility. Now, it seems that new Special Teams coach Rich Bisaccia has been able to tap into the young man’s potential, as Harris is seeing holes that he never did before – thanks likely to the smart selection of personnel and their disciplined blocking.
In all, there was a solid effort from the whole team. The offense looked potent, the defensive line revealed tremendous depth, and the special teams made their case for a force to be reckoned with. That being said, we came away from this game quite banged up. It would be nice to have that bye week right about now, but alas, we must prepare for a rested Michael Vick and a resurgent DeSean Jackson. Plus, our run defense will be put to the test as we face arguably the best running back in football right now: LeSean McCoy.
Sunday night’s victory is surely one to enjoy – but not for long. Next week’s game against Philadelphia is for the division lead, and is, in many ways, a true test for this exciting Dallas Cowboys team.
Leave your thoughts on Sunday night’s game in the comments below. Go Cowboys!