Dallas Cowboys first preseason contest: 5 talking points
By Tyrone Starr
A return to form
Three years ago, the Dallas Cowboys made a huge gamble, selecting Jaylon Smith with the 34thoverall pick. The first year became strictly rehabilitation for his surgically repaired left leg. Last year, Smith exceeded expectations, playing in every game and being productive, although not spectacular.
On Thursday, you were able to see the first true return on investment of the Cowboys’ gamble. Smith was all over the place, playing the linebacker position about as well as it could be done. The Cowboys are hopeful this is just the start of something big.
It’s fair to keep a level head on the expectation but it almost feels like this year will be the one that Smith returns to form. If that comes into fruition, this defense will take another two steps forward.
Disappointment in the defensive backfield
I have been all over the potential of the Dallas Cowboys secondary to be special. The addition of former defensive coordinator Kris Richard will help improve this unit. Byron Jones moving back to corner will upgrade this unit as well.
On Thursday, the truth in those statements would be hard to find. Aside from Jones, no other corner played well. San Francisco seemingly went after Chidobe Awuzie time and again with some success. Jourdan Lewis gave up a huge play to start the third quarter. Then there’s Anthony Brown.
For a guy who is supposedly competing for a starting spot, he could not have had a worse night. Multiple penalties, several completions and zero plays that would instill any confidence is not the start you want.
Can he rebound? Absolutely.
Is he allowed a bad game? Sure, I suppose.
Another game or two like this, however, and you can forget that competition. If anyone needs a few hot practices and a very good game two, it’s Brown.