Cowboys: Where To Go From Here

Oct 25, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Dallas Cowboys wide receiver

(13) returns a punt while New York Giants cornerback

(38) blocks Dallas Cowboys tackle

(77) at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: William Hauser-USA TODAY Sports

In most situations you control the clock, you control the game … in most situations.

The Cowboys controlled the ball for over thirty-eight minutes of the game. If there hadn’t been two quick touchdowns from the Giants, one on a pick six, and one on a kick return, this game wouldn’t have even been close. The Giants beat the Cowboys but the Cowboys had their third string quarterback and gave the Giants everything they could handle.

Controlling the ball also includes not turning it over. It shows the Cowboys can move the ball, hold onto it for stretches, and can possibly make opposing teams play desperately. If the Cowboys can keep this level of ball control, it could help the turnovers, as teams will have to pass more to stay in the game. It isn’t the greatest sign, but it is a sign of good things being possible.

For all of the negatives surrounding Cassel’s interceptions, he moved the ball well enough to warrant another week as the starter for the Cowboys. He can move the offense much better than Weeden can and has the ability to make teams pay for some mistakes. While he does throw a few interceptions, he also can get the ball into tighter spots.

Some of the errant throws by Cassel can be fixed and even if they can’t, the Cowboys should be able to run the ball more with the threat of Cassel throwing over the top. Controlling the clock is vital if the Cowboys want to tread water until Romo returns, an improved run game will help as well.

Next: What's Next?