Dallas Cowboys: What happened to the run-pass option?

The Dallas Cowboys offense stalled against the Seattle Seahawks Sunday, leaving many to wonder why they didn’t use the run-pass option more?

In Week Two, the Dallas Cowboys posted an impressive 20-13 victory over the New York Giants on Sunday Night Football. And that was due in part to the Cowboys effective use of the run-pass option or RPO.

Utilizing quarterback Dak Prescott as a run threat, the Cowboys were essentially able to freeze the Giants’ defense at times, resulting in key first down conversions and critical offense gains. Prescott ended the game against New York rushing for 45 yards on seven attempts.

The RPO wrinkle appeared to crack the code for Prescott, who has had his issues with accuracy in the pocket. Throwing in the threat of Dak as a runner seemed to keep New York’s defense guessing, opening up several opportunities for the offense both on the ground and through the air.

Yet, against the Seattle Seahawks in Week Three, the Cowboys all but abandoned the run-pass option. And Prescott’s play suffered for it. Instead of running at the Seahawks defense, the third-year quarterback was running for his life, struggling under an onslaught of pressure all game. And his lackluster receiver corps struggled to get open against Seattle’s secondary.

Prescott rushed the ball only twice for a total of 21 yards. And the Cowboys lost to the Seahawks 24-13, giving Dallas a 1-2 record. It appears the Cowboys coaching staff believed their offensive line would be able to stand up against Seattle’s poor pass rush. And that Prescott would have more time in the pocket to find his receivers. They were wrong on both points. And they seemed to refuse to go to the RPO despite being down 17-3 at halftime.

Undoubtedly, the Cowboys offensive line continues to struggle. And Prescott continues to prove he’s an inconsistent pocket passer, especially under pressure.

Dallas Cowboys Offensive Coordinator Scott Linehan will continue to receive criticism following some questionable game-planning decisions and an inability to make proper changes during the game and via halftime adjustments. Linehan, along with head coach Jason Garrett, should certainly be on the hot seat now as both were quick to abandon the run-pass option that worked so well in Week Two.