Cowboys Missing Critical Offensive Linemen in Week 16
The Dallas Cowboys are stumbling their way into the playoffs and must avoid injuries at all costs.
The offensive line has been the strength of the Dallas Cowboys team for numerous seasons. Regardless of the controversy or inconsistency that has plagued the rest of the offense, the titans in the trenches have been the pillars that have held Dallas’ roster together. To make the playoffs at this time in the season, a club must rely on its most trustworthy tools.
Cowboys’ Best Two Offensive Linemen Out on Wednesday
While Dallas has heavily depended on their offensive line this season, the standout performers in that group, left tackle Tyron Smith and right guard Zach Martin, encountered a setback as they did not participate in Wednesday’s practice. It appears unlikely that they will be able to play against the formidable Miami Dolphins this Sunday.
Tyron Smith, drafted by Dallas in 2011 as the ninth overall pick, has been a consistent presence, earning eight Pro Bowl selections. Similarly, Zach Martin, chosen by Dallas in 2014 as the sixteenth pick, has secured six first-team All-Pro recognitions. The absence of these two key linemen would undeniably pose a significant challenge for Dallas in the upcoming game.
Despite some inconsistency in the running game, Dallas’ offensive line has provided ample protection for quarterback Dak Prescott, who has put up impressive numbers and remained a contender for the Most Valuable Player award. Without his primary protectors, Prescott may need to rely more on his agility to make plays, given that the pocket might not offer the usual level of security.
These injuries couldn’t have occurred at a worse time for Dallas, as they are currently holding onto the lead in the NFC East, fending off competition from the formidable Philadelphia Eagles. Dallas, relying on tiebreakers to stay ahead of Philadelphia, can ill-afford to lose another game this season.
In the absence of Smith and Martin, Dallas is expected to start backup left tackle Chuma Edoga and undrafted rookie right guard T.J. Bass. Both backups have limited experience in high-stakes games this season, and Bass may require additional assistance, such as double teams and chips, to protect Prescott from the formidable defensive tackle Christian Wilkins.
Looking ahead, Dallas faces the NFC powerhouse Detroit Lions and the struggling Washington Commanders to close out the season. With the Eagles in pursuit and the potential to surpass the San Francisco 49ers for the top seed in the NFC, Dallas will need all the help it can muster. Due to recent rule changes, only the number one seed retains a first-round bye and enjoys a significant advantage in the 2023 NFL Playoffs.