OROW: Tyler Smith, OL (x2)
For the second straight week, Tyler Smith is our Offensive Rookie of the Week. The first-round pick had an even better game this time out, and he’s making himself not only look worth the 24th pick but even a steal.
#Cowboys LT Tyler Smith has allowed a total of three pressures and one hurry through two games, according to @PFF.
— Marcus Mosher (@Marcus_Mosher) September 19, 2022
He's been pretty good as a pass protector, but even better as a run blocker.
In Sunday’s matchup, Smith allowed just one pressure on 36 passing snaps. He didn’t allow a single sack, or even a penalty, which he was notorious for in college. Smith was also phenomenal in the run game, grading out as the second-best run blocker on the team with a 74.0 grade by PFF. This is from a player who primarily played guard in college.
Runner-up: KaVontae Turpin, WR
DROW: Sam Williams, DE (x2)
Sam Williams is once again the Defensive Rookie of the Week by default. However, we did see a bit more of the second-rounder this time out. Instead of the six defensive snaps Williams played last week, he finished with ten.
Sam Williams with a tackle for loss here. The rookie is improving.
— Calvin Watkins (@calvinwatkins) September 18, 2022
While that still is not a ton of reps or game time, it’s still a step in the right direction for Williams. He was called for a penalty during the game, but, he did make a really nice tackle for loss to turn an already first-and-long into a second-and-longer. Hopefully, the trend of increased snaps continues for the Ole Miss product.
Runner-up: DaRon Bland, CB (special teams)
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