You don't have to squint to remember when the Dallas Cowboys would get their doors blown off in the preseason. Winning games that don't matter ultimately doesn't matter, but is it not preferable if Dallas' depth is significantly better than its opponent's?
The run game was one of the many areas in which the Cowboys outclassed the Arizona Cardinals on Saturday night. And while Malik Davis certainly covered himself in glory in the first half, Jaydon Blue was one of the stories of the game.
Needing to make a statement in the backup running back battle, Blue did exactly that. He had the game of his life, and the timing couldn't be better.
One would think he has one foot in the door to make the 53-man roster, but the job's not done.
Jaydon Blue must keep his foot on the gas in the Dallas Cowboys' RB2 battle
Blue carried 15 times for 75 yards to lead all Cowboys ball-carriers.
He showed off his athleticism with multiple hurdles in tight areas, and while the blocking in front of him was night and day compared to last week, it was obvious to the naked eye that he saw things better and ran with more patience.
Blue's speed shouldn't surprise anyone by now, but it still jumps off the screen when he reaches the second level. That burst can be such a fun complement to Javonte Williams, but his lack of power has left many Cowboys fans wondering if he should be restricted to a passing-down role.
On Saturday, though, Blue actually ran through contact. Like, through contact; he didn't go down at first contact. We're just as surprised as you.
The former Texas star had a handful of runs where he kept his legs churning and picked up additional yards. He actually took the fight to the Cardinals' defense.
That element of his game has been virtually nonexistent. If it's here to stay, then Blue will be, too. But he has to prove that Saturday wasn't just a one-off.
Everyone knows that he's a problem in space, and his ability to catch passes would add another dimension to an already-prolific offense. If Blue suddenly proves he can play with just a little bit of power, he can be trusted as Williams' backup.
Jaydon Blue still has to fend off Malik Davis for the RB2 job
At this point, Blue has one really good preseason game and a not-so-good one. He has to show up next week and continue to play well in practice.
After all, Malik Davis' charge is only getting louder.
Davis got the start ahead of Blue and Phil Mafah, and capped an excellent first quarter with an eight-yard touchdown reception on a 3rd-and-6. He rushed five times for 29 yards (5.8 yards per attempt) and was once again nails in pass protection.
If rosters were due tomorrow, we'd guess that Davis and Blue both make the team. However, Davis likely would be ahead of Blue, making it crucial that Blue keeps his foot on the gas.
Blue may have the inside track on Mafah for a roster spot, but nothing is guaranteed after one great night.
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