Dallas Cowboys: Offensive keys to beating the Cardinals

ARLINGTON, TX - NOVEMBER 02: Jason Witten #82 of the Dallas Cowboys runs the ball against Tony Jefferson #22 and Sam Acho #94 of the Arizona Cardinals in the second quarter at AT&T Stadium on November 2, 2014 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TX - NOVEMBER 02: Jason Witten #82 of the Dallas Cowboys runs the ball against Tony Jefferson #22 and Sam Acho #94 of the Arizona Cardinals in the second quarter at AT&T Stadium on November 2, 2014 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /
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ARLINGTON, TX – SEPTEMBER 10: Ezekiel Elliott #21 of the Dallas Cowboys gets pat on the chest from Dak Prescott #4 of the Dallas Cowboys in the first half of a game against the New York Giants at AT&T Stadium on September 10, 2017 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TX – SEPTEMBER 10: Ezekiel Elliott #21 of the Dallas Cowboys gets pat on the chest from Dak Prescott #4 of the Dallas Cowboys in the first half of a game against the New York Giants at AT&T Stadium on September 10, 2017 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

Where to run on the Cardinals’ front seven

In previous seasons, Arizona’s defense has been great vs the run.

This year has seen a drop-off in this area, after losing their All-Pro defensive end, Calais Campbell, to free agency this offseason.

His absence has been significant, as Arizona’s defensive line was pushed around by an average Colts’ offensive line.

Most of Indianapolis’ success on the ground came from zone runs. Their offensive line was able to create movement and reach the Arizona linebackers, allowing the running back to get to the second level.

This is a great site for the Cowboys, as the zone run is the staple of their offense. The Dallas’ offensive line is at their best when moving in one direction and getting to the second level.

They should be set up to succeed vs the Cardinals’ front seven, and should drastically increase their rushing total from last week.

Next: Dallas Cowboys - Ailing defense to face wounded Cardinals

Overall, this is a game the Dallas Cowboys’ offense should be successful in. Dallas has the weapons to attack this defense and put up points. It’ll be a benchmark to see where the offense stands after three weeks, and will provide clarity on how good they can be in 2017.