Dallas Cowboys at San Diego Chargers: Five Things to Follow

Sep 7, 2013; Lubbock, TX, USA; Stephen F Austin Lumberjacks running back Gus Johnson (6) rushes against the Texas Tech Red Raiders in the second half at Jones AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

Dallas Cowboys Running Back Play

To say the running game is an important item to track in the preseason is like saying brisket is good in Texas – it’s a massive understatement. But instead of searching for the heir apparent in this first preseason game, focus on these two things:

• Patience and Ball Security – The Cowboys have slowly been transforming to a zone blocking scheme (ZBS) over the years. While they aren’t a ZBS exclusively, they clearly rely on it more than man, and have made it their bread and butter. Running behind a ZBS requires patience followed by a quick cut up field. It will be interesting to see how the holes develop, how the runners wait and attack the holes, and how harmonious the process is. Even if none of the runners we see tonight make the team, it will be telling to see how this offense is working together. One of the biggest advantages to this blocking scheme is it uses system running backs. Guys that can come in off the street and succeed (to some degree).
• Gus Johnson – Who doesn’t want to see Gus Johnson? The man thrust into the spotlight following injuries to the Cowboys top 3 RBs has been truning heads in Oxnard as of late. The stocky HB has been a mainstay on goal line packages and has a great feel for the game. It will be interesting to see if this can translate to a real game and if Gus “the Bus” Johnson can earn a roster spot. One thing working in his favor? Pass protection.

Next: Speaking of Protection...