The Dallas Cowboys are gearing up to face their toughest challenge yet, but in order to prove that they are truly a new defense, they have to face it. They have to stop the run. And that’s something second-round pick Marshawn Kneeland was drafted for.
Saints Offense vs. Marshawn Kneeland is a Perfect Match for His Skill Set
Cowboys Defense Needs to Shut Down the Run
The Saints crushed the Panthers in the Week 1 opener. What’s more, they did so with an almost equal number of rushing yards to passing yards. The Saints rushed for 188 yards and Derek Carr threw for 199 yards.
Quarterback Taysom Hill is the kind of guy that will need multiple defensive players to pull him down. His frame constantly pushes through defenses like a knife through butter. In the game against the Panthers, he averaged seven yards a carry. He just doesn’t come down easy.
And even if the ball isn’t given to Hill, running back Alvin Kamara’s IQ is incredible. He’s going to find the hole. In fact, he’s willing to wait in the backfield and switch the route last minute in order to collect yards. If he’s allowed to cut loose, he’ll be a problem for this defense.
The problems increase when you consider how good the pass game is with Carr at quarterback. He’s able to exploit any kind of inch he’s given. If he has time, he’ll use it to find the perfectly open man on the field.
A great run game and solid passing offense break open the possibility of play action. And once that begins, it becomes more and more difficult for the defense to overwhelm the offense.
Kneeland Not the Typical EDGE
The biggest fear the Cowboys have is the ability to stop the run game. Mike Zimmer has been a master at defensive schemes in the backfield, but now, he’ll get to showcase his run-blocking skills as well.
A perfect candidate for this could be Marshawn Kneeland.
Most EDGE rushers are important for the passing game. They’re there to blitz the quarterback and get the ball out in a frenzy. Kneeland isn’t like most EDGE rushers though.
The rookie out of West Michigan had lots of practice stopping the run game, plugging up holes, and making the tackle when the run went to the outside. He’s shifty too, able to get around offensive tackles in a ravaging attempt at the ball.
Kneeland is also quick. Although he didn’t get any sacks this past Sunday, he managed to get two quarterback hits and make himself present. Wherever the ball was on the line of scrimmage, he was there in an instant, ready to assist in plays if needed.
Kneeland: The Key to Shutting Down the Run
Although the linebackers and other defensive line players will have to step up to stop this run game, all eyes will be on Kneeland.
The Cowboys drafted him because of his ability to excel on the run. If he is able to live up to expectations, it creates a more favorable look toward the games against the Ravens and Niners later in the season.
But it all starts here, on Sunday with the Saints.
Main Image: Jason Parkhurst-Imagn Images
