Cowboys vs. Patriots: Week 5 – Five Things

Sep 27, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Joseph Randle (21) runs with th ball against Atlanta Falcons linebacker Justin Durant (52) at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Time to Run – Starting running back Joseph Randle made a mistake last week at the goal-line. While it isn’t certain if this is what got him benched, it is time for him to break loose. Between Randle and backup Darren McFadden, one of the running backs on this team needs to start breaking off some runs and moving the chains. The lack of ball control over the last few weeks from the Cowboys offense has been a glaring problem.

If the offense can’t stay on the field it puts the defense in a precarious position of constantly having to make stops. Doing this again against someone like Brady will turn ugly really quickly. The offensive line has to do a better job and open some holes for the running backs.

The real issue here isn’t the backs or the offensive line really. The issue is that teams are stacking eight or even nine in the box and daring the Cowboys to pass, and they consistently try to run. It is understandable to not get away from your game plan, but when you see nine people within a few yards of the line, it might be time to adjust the play and throw a little. This is something that Weeden has to be aware of, and hopefully he’s prepared this week.

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