One issue that hindered Dallas’…
The Dallas Cowboys’ passing offense in 2024 has faced challenges, and one key issue has been particularly damaging: the inconsistency of their offensive line, specifically the struggles at left guard and right tackle.
While quarterback Dak Prescott has had solid performances in some games, the offensive line’s inability to consistently protect him has created a significant bottleneck. For any quarterback, protection is paramount to giving them time to read the defense and make accurate throws. However, when the pocket is disrupted, it not only affects the quarterback’s ability to make plays but also limits the effectiveness of the passing game overall. For Dallas, the line’s struggles have played a large part in Prescott’s inconsistent performances, leading to sacks, hurried throws, and missed opportunities.
### Left Guard Concerns
The left guard position has been a glaring weak spot for the Cowboys this season. With the departure of Connor Williams and the inconsistent play of his replacements, the left guard position has been in flux. At times, the Cowboys have tried a rotation of players, none of whom have established themselves as reliable fixtures. This instability along the interior line has led to breakdowns in pass protection, often leaving Prescott under pressure from the inside. Quick interior pressure forces Prescott to move off his spot, throwing off his timing and leading to rushed throws. This can also force him into tight windows where the risk of interception increases.
Moreover, a lack of continuity in this area has affected the running game as well, but its direct impact on the passing attack is undeniable. If the offensive line is not winning at the line of scrimmage, Prescott struggles to get into any rhythm. The inability to establish a stable pocket diminishes his options in the passing game, forcing him to rely on checkdowns or scrambling, neither of which are ideal for sustaining drives.
### Right Tackle Instability
On the right side of the line, the Cowboys have had similar issues. The right tackle position, traditionally a key area for pass protection, has been volatile throughout the season. Terence Steele, who was expected to be a cornerstone of the line, has battled through inconsistency. While Steele has had strong performances in the run game, his pass protection has left much to be desired. In particular, he has struggled with speed rushers and has occasionally failed to anchor against more powerful defensive linemen.
These struggles have led to Prescott facing pressure from both the inside and the outside, leaving him with few places to step up in the pocket. As a result, Prescott’s effectiveness as a downfield passer has diminished. In many games, he has been forced to take quick throws, limiting the Cowboys’ ability to stretch the field and open up opportunities for big plays.
### Impact on the Passing Game
The Cowboys’ passing game is designed to be quick and efficient, with Dak Prescott utilizing a variety of route concepts, including deep shots to playmakers like CeeDee Lamb. However, when the offensive line struggles to provide adequate protection, it disrupts the timing of these plays. Prescott’s first read may not be available, or the pressure forces him to abandon his progressions too soon.
This has been compounded by the fact that the Cowboys’ wide receiver corps, while talented, lacks depth beyond Lamb. Michael Gallup has shown flashes of his old self, but he has been inconsistent. Brandin Cooks, while a proven deep threat, hasn’t always been a reliable option when it matters most. Without the proper time to allow these routes to develop, Prescott has found himself unable to take advantage of the passing game’s potential.
### Conclusion
Ultimately, the Cowboys’ offensive line issues, particularly at left guard and right tackle, have been a significant factor in ruining the team’s pass offense. Without solid protection, Dak Prescott has struggled to execute the passing game effectively, limiting the offense’s ability to score and sustain drives. If the Cowboys hope to make a deep playoff run in 2024, fixing these issues up front must be a top priority. Whether that comes through better individual play, roster changes, or coaching adjustments, improving the offensive line is crucial to unlocking the full potential of Dallas’ pass offense.
