Author: Jack Casabonne
Editor: Brian Symons
In Week 1, the Los Angeles Chargers did the Dallas Cowboys a favor and defeated their divisional rival. With a 20-16 win over the Washington Football Team, LA has started their season off on the right foot. Unfortunately for Dallas, they’re still searching for their first win after dropping a 31-29 nailbiter against the former Super Bowl champions. However, things won’t be easy in Week 2 for Dallas as they are expected to be without starters DeMarcus Lawrence, Randy Gregory, La’el Collins, and Michael Gallup. Dallas will need to emphasize these three matchups against the Chargers in order to get into the win column for this season.
Terence Steele vs. Joey Bosa
As an undrafted rookie, Steele saw significant playing time last season as Dallas dealt with injuries to both Tyron Smith and La’el Collins. Unfortunately, Collins is going to miss time again this season, albeit to a suspension rather than an injury. While the Cowboys signed veteran swing tackle Ty Nsekhe this offseason, he will also be unavailable for Week 2, as he spent Thursday night in a hospital while being treated for a heat-related illness after practice. This means Steele will get the starting nod at right tackle, as Dallas is reluctant to slide Zack Martin over to tackle. Steele had many growing pains as a rookie, starting 14 games in 2020. This may be his hardest task yet, as Bosa is one of the elite pass rushers in the game. Bosa has been a stud since being selected 3rd overall in the 2016 Draft, just one pick before Ezekiel Elliott. The Cowboys need to keep Dak upright, and this responsibility will fall firmly on the shoulders of Steele.
Dorance Armstrong vs. Rashawn Slater
The Cowboys were one of only two teams in the league to not record a sack in Week 1. As has been the case for consecutive seasons, Dallas truly lacks any interior pass rush, allowing offensive lines to shift protection towards defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence. However, now Dallas has to rush the quarterback without either of their starting defensive ends. Lawrence is projected to miss 6-8 weeks due to a broken foot, while Randy Gregory tested positive for Covid-19 this week and is unlikely to be cleared by gametime. This means Tarrell Basham and Dorance Armstrong are the likely starters against a Chargers’ offensive line that contained Washington’s feared defensive line in Week 1. Additionally, rookie Rashawn Slater completely shut down Chase Young, a premier pass rusher. Armstrong is in the final year of his rookie contract and is looking to take the next step forward following an impressive training camp and preseason. It’ll be crucial for Armstrong to pressure Justin Herbert, as he will be able to pick apart the secondary if he has ample time in the pocket.
Cedrick Wilson vs. Asante Samuel Jr.
With Michael Gallup being put on IR due to a calf injury, Cedrick Wilson is the next man up for Dallas. Wilson will probably line up in the slot for the majority of his snaps, where the former Boise State standout will be able to focus on his impressive route running. Wilson was able to put up 24 yards on 3 catches, including a first down, against Tampa’s secondary. However, this task could prove to be more of a challenge against Los Angeles due to the matchup. Rookie cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. looked extremely impressive against Washington. Playing in 47 snaps, the son of former NFL defensive back Asante Samuel absolutely locked down Washington’s receiving core. He was targeted 4 times, while only giving up 2 receptions for 15 yards. This resulted in a 59.4 passer rating when targeted, which is an elite metric. Dallas is going to need the passing game to thrive in order to put points on the board, and this matchup could prove to be the difference maker for the final score.
SPORTS ARE OUR UNIVERSE
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