The eagerly-awaited dogfight between the Cowboys and Browns never really happened, as Dallas got out to a healthy lead early and never really let the home team get back into it in the season opener. It’s admittedly nitpicky to find fault in a 16-point win over the AFC’s top-seeded wild-card team from a year ago, but a look beyond the basic box score shows a fair bit of “bad” and “ugly” to go along with all the “good” that the 33-17 victory contained. Mike Zimmer’s defense certainly made a strong first impression, the special teams unit was exactly that, and neither CeeDee Lamb nor Dak Prescott did anything to make their new megacontracts look like errors in judgment by the front office. But one has to be concerned by a couple of old bugaboos that have haunted Mike McCarthy over his Cowboys tenure, and the afternoon’s most notable Cowboys injury could cause some second-guessing about what Plan B might look like. Here’s a look at the good, the bad, and the ugly from the Cowboys’ visit Sunday to the shores of Lake Erie. [affiliatewidget_smgtolocal] Good: The debut of Mike Zimmer’s defense If there were still any questions about how a revamped defense would look, Mike Zimmer’s crew wasted no time in giving their answer. Look at Cleveland’s first-half offensive stats: one first down, 0-for-6 on third down conversion attempts, 54 net total yards, no play longer than eight yards, just 10 minutes of possession. The Cowboys eased up some after the break but still sacked Deshaun Watson six times, picked him off twice, and limited him to a 51.1 passer rating on the day. And while established stars like Micah Parsons, Trevon Diggs, and DeMarcus Lawrence all had very productive days, some of the new faces on the Dallas defense showed that the unit should be a force this season from front to back. Caelen Carson came dangerously close to logging two interceptions, DeMarvion Overshown flashed impressive speed and pressure skills, and Eric Kendricks recorded two sacks and a pick and led the team in tackles. Bad: Play-clock snafu negates 66-yard field goal Cowboys fans already knew Brandon Aubrey could connect from 66 yards; he did it just last month in the team’s second preseason game. His no-doubt bomb from that same length at the end of Sunday’s first half would have actually counted on his permanent record (and tied the NFL’s all-time mark)… except for the play clock that had expired just before the snap. Even more maddening was the fact that Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy was sitting on two timeouts. With just three seconds to play, there was no reason to save them. McCarthy appeared to argue after the fact that there had been a mishap with the play clock resetting too early, but someone on the coaching staff should have called attention to the issue well before the time ever hit double-zero. After getting backed up five yards, McCarthy elected not to give Aubrey the chance at a 71-yarder, even though all indications have shown that to be a very makeable distance for the second-year Pro Bowler. Clock management issues have haunted McCarthy in the past. While it thankfully didn’t hurt the team in Week 1, it did cost Aubrey a share of an NFL record and didn’t do anything to reassure fans that a clock snafu won’t rear its ugly head again sometime in 2024. Ugly: Are penalties back? Week 1 is sure to bring a lot of laundry, as players and officials alike look to knock off the offseason rust and settle back into game-speed action that often skews to the sloppy side. But the Cowboys have been among the most-penalized teams in the league for the past several years, and despite it supposedly being an ever-present focus for McCarthy, the team picked up right where they left off on Sunday, drawing 11 flags and losing 85 yards as a result. The markers starting flying right out of the gates, too, with wide receiver Jalen Tolbert getting dinged for offensive holding on the very first snap of the season and effectively ruining the Cowboys’ opening possession. The penalties were split pretty evenly among the team’s units- four by the offense, three by the defense, four by special teams- but it would behoove the entire team to work on their discipline before the truly elite opponents start showing up. Good: Special teams could be special again KaVontae Turpin is a legitimate threat every time he touches the ball. Unfortunately, that has resulted in most teams making sure he doesn’t get near the ball whenever possible on kick and punt returns. But the Pro Bowl speedster made the most of his first opportunity of Sunday’s second half, finally bringing one all the way back in a game that counts. Turpin’s 60-yard punt return was the longest so far of his short career, but it was also the Cowboys’ first punt return housecall since 2017. Turpin’s five punt returns in Week 1 averaged 19.2 yards, and his lone kick return was for 34 yards. The league’s new dynamic kickoff should give him more chances overall in 2024. He’s already started capitalizing on them. Bad: Ferguson’s early exit exposes TE depth The starting tight end had logged three catches on five targets and gained 15 yards before an awkward tackle had him grabbing at his knee and limping gingerly off the field. While early indications are that he may have dodged a major injury, his exit midway through the third quarter turned a spotlight on the team’s depth at the important position, and the outlook isn’t great. (Remember that Peyton Hendershot was released at the end of camp and is now on the Chiefs roster.) Backup Luke Schoonmaker would represent a significant dropoff in the passing game. Behind him are undrafted rookie Brevyn Spann-Ford and second-year man John Stephens Jr., who was inactive Sunday and has yet to appear in a regular-season game. The practice squad’s Princeton
Studs and Duds: Coaching staff leads Cowboys to victory over Browns
Studs and Duds: Coaching staff leads Cowboys to victory over Browns Mike Crum The Dallas Cowboys have had a horrible taste in their mouth for months following the disappointing end to the 2023 season. After the “all-in” offseason included a long wait to get extensions for CeeDee Lamb and Dak Prescott, everyone just wanted to get on the field and play the Cleveland Browns. The team hit their mark as they took out all their frustrations as a road underdog, dominating all aspects of the game for a 33-17 win. A performance like this from all units of the team leads to positive vibes for the players, leaving plenty of studs to pick from for their elite performances. There were a few duds who need to improve as the season goes on, but they get a break for a poor performance since the team blew out their opponent. For the Cowboys it was the best of both worlds. Studs: Coaching staff OXNARD, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 8: Defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer of the Dallas Cowboys paces the sideline during a joint practice with Los Angeles Rams at Cowboys training camp on August 8, 2024 in Oxnard, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images) The big sell for Dallas’ offseason was an upgrade on defense with the hiring of Mike Zimmer, but with a loss of depth, it was an unknown if Zimmer would have the pieces necessary to be good on that side of the ball. Dominant is the perfect word to describe their Sunday performance. The Cowboys defense allowed just a single first down in the first half, holding the Browns to two conversions on 15 third-down attempts while adding six sacks and two interceptions. Cleveland only averaged 2.7 yards per pass despite Dallas lining up a rookie corner against Amari Cooper most of the game. Zimmer was better than advertised in their first game. John Fassel had a great day as special teams coach as well, with KaVontae Turpin returning a punt for a touchdown and Brandon Aubrey hitting on all seven of his kicks. Aubrey even hit an eighth kick from 66 yards before halftime, but a clock malfunction caused a penalty to take away the record tying blast. He still had a long of 57 yards. Duds: WR Jalen Tolbert OXNARD, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 8: Quarterback Dak Prescott #4 and wide receiver Jalen Tolbert #1 of the Dallas Cowboys practice hand shakes during joint practice with Los Angeles Rams at training camp on August 8, 2024 in Oxnard, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images) Once the Cowboys pulled ahead 14-3, the offense went conservative, making sure the excellent Cleveland defense couldn’t impact the game for the Browns. This led to receivers not getting many chances to make an impact. Prescott only threw 32 total times for just 4.7 yards per pass. Regardless, Jalen Tolbert made zero impact in the opening game of the year after an impressive training camp. Tolbert was the least impactful player on the team of any player who accrued stats. He had fewer receiving yards than Lamb, Brandin Cooks, Jalen Brooks, Hunter Luepke, and Jake Ferguson. Ezekiel Elliott and Rico Dowdle both were relatively impactful in the run game and Turpin added his return touchdown. Tolbert came in as the clear third receiver, with some saying he could battle for the second spot, but he made no impactful plays against the Browns. Studs: Edge Micah Parsons INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 11: Micah Parsons #11 of the Dallas Cowboys before a preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium on August 11, 2024 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) All offseason the talk was about what Myles Garrett would do to the rookie left tackle of the Cowboys and how they couldn’t let him wreck the game, but it was Micah Parsons who ended up ruining the Browns chances at a Week 1 victory. Parsons stat sheet doesn’t jump out with only four tackles, a sack, and a tackle for a loss, but he was the most impactful player on the field by a mile. He caused multiple early penalties on the offensive lineman across from him, putting Cleveland in tough situations offensively. He tipped a pass that ended up intercepted by Eric Kendricks, pressured Watson causing him to run into Demarcus Lawrence for a sack, and he even dropped in coverage leaving the Browns offensive line confused allowing Kendricks took advantage with a sack. Parsons started off his defensive player of the year campaign with a stud performance for the Cowboys. Duds: First down runs Dec 24, 2023; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Rico Dowdle (23) rushes with the ball during the first half against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports The duds for the run game’s poor performance could go to the offensive line or the running backs, but the predictable play calling probably was the largest issue. The innovative play callers for the Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco 49ers, Miami Dolphins, or Detroit Lions aren’t walking through the door here in Dallas, but the first-down, up the middle runs haven’t been effective here for the entirety of the Mike McCarthy era. Dallas had two runs on first down to Lamb, they were sweeps that went for 10 and 12 yards, other than that they had one first down run all game that went for four yards or more. The total for running backs on first down was 19 yards on 11 carries. That is a putrid average of 1.72 yards per attempt, a complete dud for the offense. Studs: Linebackers LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – AUGUST 17: Eric Kendricks #50 of the Dallas Cowboys warms up prior to a preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on August 17, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ian Maule/Getty Images) Dallas isn’t known for signing impactful free agents, content to build their team by drafting and
‘This ain’t nothing yet’: Cowboys rookie CB promises bumpy ride for opposing QBs after Week 1 lockdown
‘This ain’t nothing yet’: Cowboys rookie CB promises bumpy ride for opposing QBs after Week 1 lockdown Todd Brock No one knew what to expect, really. It was Week 1, playing an unfamiliar opponent, facing a quarterback capable of lighting it up any given week and a talented receiving corps that included a 1,000-yard threat who wanted to show up the team that once shipped him out of town. It had the potential to be a wild and bumpy ride. Good thing the Cowboys invested in a Seat Belt this offseason. In his NFL debut, rookie cornerback Caelen Carson lived up to the nickname given to him at Wake Forest and was instrumental in restraining the Browns’ air attack in the Cowboys’ 33-17 opening day win. The dominant Dallas defense limited Cleveland’s Deshaun Watson to a meager 3.75 yards per attempt and a 51.1 passer rating on the day, looking nothing like a fifth-round DB making his first pro appearance. “Honestly, I didn’t know how the first game was going to go,” Carson said after the win, “but I knew one thing: I wasn’t going to come in here scared.” The 22-year-old more than held his own despite being matched up against five-time Pro Bowler Amari Cooper, with Carson holding the former Cowboy to just 16 yards and breaking up as many passes- two- as he let Cooper catch. And he nearly came away with two interceptions. “I didn’t capitalize on my opportunities today,” the rookie confessed. “I think I played okay, but I’ve got to capitalize on the opportunities. That’s the biggest thing with a Cowboys defense- turnovers.” Fellow cornerback Trevon Diggs was quick to point out Carson’s near-misses, interrupting the youngster’s Q&A session with reporters with an announcement of his own: “He owes, like, 70 push-ups!” Diggs reported with a laugh. The fifth-year All-Pro had plenty to smile about on Sunday, making his return to the field after an ACL tear suffered in practice last September “Tears of joy,” Diggs said at his locker. “Just thankful to be back. I’ve been gone for so long… I had a lot of emotions.” And he made the most of it, nabbing his first pick in 357 days. It was quite a performance, especially considering that neither of the Cowboys’ starting cornerbacks for the majority of the 2023 season were even on the field. DaRon Bland is out for several more weeks with a foot fracture; Stephon Gilmore was not re-signed by the team. But Diggs showed no ill effects from his knee injury, and Carson showed no fear as a first-timer, and the result was a near-total lockdown of the Cleveland passing game. “We pressured the quarterback a lot, so we got him off his game,” said Carson. “And then for the outside pieces- the receivers- the timing was off, everything was off. It helped us a lot. I think the back end played well, too. All phases of the defensed played well.” But both men vowed that it’s just the beginning. [affiliatewidget_smgtolocal] “You ain’t seen nothing yet,” Carson predicted. “We’ve got a lot of improvement to do, get back in the film room. There’s going to be more to come.” Diggs confirmed that the Cowboys defense, now under the command of coordinator Mike Zimmer, has plenty more that never even came out of the toolbox on Sunday. “That was just a little sample,” he explained. “Man, we’ve got, like, 50 calls. We only ran probably three of them.” Maybe it’s the Cowboys’ opponents who should be buckling up for a bumpy ride. “I left a lot of plays out there. So, a lot more plays to come,” promised the talented youngster they call Seat Belt. “A lot more to come. This ain’t nothing yet.” Read all the best Cowboys coverage at the Austin American-Statesman and Cowboys Wire.
Eric Kendricks pilots dominant defensive showing in Cowboys 2024 season opener
Eric Kendricks pilots dominant defensive showing in Cowboys 2024 season opener Tim Lettiero The Cowboys opened their 2024 season on the road against an angsty Cleveland Browns team. Facing one of the most well-rounded defensive units in the league, Dallas was bound to struggle offensively. Cleveland’s offense was down both their starting tackles though, giving the front seven of Dallas a great opportunity to put pressure on the passing and running game of the Browns. And that they did. Dallas never seemed to get clicking on offense, but the defense was as dominant as has been seen in recent times. Cleveland couldn’t get going at all, mustering only 10 points and under 200 total yards before a lengthy garbage-time drive with seven minutes remaining. Dallas put pressure on QB Deshaun Watson all day sacking him six times and picking him off twice. Spearheading this performance was new mike linebacker and savvy veteran Eric Kendricks. Kendricks already racked up four of his nine tackles by the end of the first quarter, starting off hot. In the second quarter, Micah Parsons got his hands on a Deshaun Watson pass, starting a tip drill which ended in the hands of the veteran. Kendrick would come and go in the second half as he dealt with some cramping issues due to dehydration but notched his second sack of the game before taking a well-deserved seat on the bench. Finishing with an impressive stat line of nine tackles, two sacks and a pick, it’s clear Kendricks feels back at home under new DC Mike Zimmer. His ability to not only to make plays but lead his teammates cannot be understated. Read all the best Cowboys coverage at the Austin American-Statesman and Cowboys Wire.
Victory in Pics: Gallery of Cowboys 33-17 road win over Browns
Victory in Pics: Gallery of Cowboys 33-17 road win over Browns K.D. Drummond The Dallas Cowboys took care of business on opening day, blowing out a home team that was in the playoffs the previous season for the second consecutive year. In 2023, the club went to New York and bludgeoned the Giants 40-0. This year, Deshaun Watson and the Cleveland Browns were taken to task, 33-17. Take a look at the photo captures from the talented crew of USA Today and Getty Images. Quarterback Dak Prescott celebrating after his big contract signing and sharp day, the return of Ezekiel Elliott to star-donned helmets, and Micah Parsons and company dominating defensive performances… all here. NFL: Dallas Cowboys at Cleveland Browns Sep 8, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Jalen Tolbert (1) gets tackled by… Sep 8, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Jalen Tolbert (1) gets tackled by Cleveland Browns cornerback Martin Emerson Jr. (23) and safety Juan Thornhill (1) during the first quarter at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images more image gallery NFL: Dallas Cowboys at Cleveland Browns Sep 8, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (15) gets tackled by… Sep 8, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (15) gets tackled by Cleveland Browns linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah (6) during the fourth quarter at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images more image gallery Syndication: Akron Beacon Journal Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Brandin Cooks (3) eyes down a touchdown pass during the first half… Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Brandin Cooks (3) eyes down a touchdown pass during the first half of an NFL football game at Huntington Bank Field, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2024, in Cleveland, Ohio. more image gallery Dallas Cowboys v Cleveland Browns CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 08: Trevon Diggs #7 of the Dallas Cowboys celebrates with teammates after… CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 08: Trevon Diggs #7 of the Dallas Cowboys celebrates with teammates after an interception during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Browns at Cleveland Browns Stadium on September 08, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) more image gallery Dallas Cowboys v Cleveland Browns CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 08: KaVontae Turpin #9 of the Dallas Cowboys returns a punt for… CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 08: KaVontae Turpin #9 of the Dallas Cowboys returns a punt for a touchdown in the third quarter of the game against the Cleveland Browns at Cleveland Browns Stadium on September 08, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) more image gallery Dallas Cowboys v Cleveland Browns CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 08: Brandin Cooks #3 of the Dallas Cowboys catches the ball for… CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 08: Brandin Cooks #3 of the Dallas Cowboys catches the ball for a touchdown in the first quarter of the game against the Cleveland Browns at Cleveland Browns Stadium on September 08, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images) more image gallery NFL: Dallas Cowboys at Cleveland Browns Sep 8, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) celebrates after a touchdown… Sep 8, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) celebrates after a touchdown during the first half against the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images more image gallery Dallas Cowboys v Cleveland Browns CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 08: A Dallas Cowboys helmet rests on the field before the game… CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 08: A Dallas Cowboys helmet rests on the field before the game against the Cleveland Browns at Cleveland Browns Stadium on September 08, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images) more image gallery Dallas Cowboys v Cleveland Browns CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 08: Trevon Diggs #7 of the Dallas Cowboys celebrates after intercepting the… CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 08: Trevon Diggs #7 of the Dallas Cowboys celebrates after intercepting the ball with Malik Hooker #28 in the fourth quarter of the game against the Cleveland Browns at Cleveland Browns Stadium on September 08, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images) more image gallery Dallas Cowboys v Cleveland Browns CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 08: Ezekiel Elliott #15 of the Dallas Cowboys scores a touchdown in… CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 08: Ezekiel Elliott #15 of the Dallas Cowboys scores a touchdown in the second quarter of the game against the Cleveland Browns at Cleveland Browns Stadium on September 08, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images) more image gallery Dallas Cowboys v Cleveland Browns CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 08: CeeDee Lamb #88 of the Dallas Cowboys runs the ball against… CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 08: CeeDee Lamb #88 of the Dallas Cowboys runs the ball against Denzel Ward #21 of the Cleveland Browns during the second half at Cleveland Browns Stadium on September 08, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images) more image gallery Dallas Cowboys v Cleveland Browns CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 08: Micah Parsons #11 of the Dallas Cowboys celebrates during the second… CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 08: Micah Parsons #11 of the Dallas Cowboys celebrates during the second quarter against the Cleveland Browns at Cleveland Browns Stadium on September 08, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images) more image gallery Dallas Cowboys v Cleveland Browns CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 08: Brian Schottenheimer offensive coordinator of the Dallas Cowboys celebrates with Ezekiel… CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 08: Brian Schottenheimer offensive coordinator of the Dallas Cowboys celebrates with Ezekiel Elliott #15 after he scored a touchdown in the second quarter of the game against the Cleveland Browns at Cleveland Browns Stadium on September 08, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images) more image gallery Dallas Cowboys v Cleveland Browns CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 08: Eric Kendricks #50 of the Dallas Cowboys celebrates with teammates after… CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 08: Eric Kendricks #50 of the Dallas Cowboys celebrates with teammates after an interception during the second
Confusion! Why were both the Cowboys and Browns’ offenses on the field together in the 3rd quarter?
Confusion! Why were both the Cowboys and Browns’ offenses on the field together in the 3rd quarter? K.D. Drummond Someone messed up. With the Dallas Cowboys dominating the action on the field in the Week 1 matchup, a confusing situation arose in the third quarter. After being stymied in the first half for just 54 total yards, the Cleveland offense had a boo-inspiring three and out to start the third quarter. Things got worse when Kavontae Turpin took the punt back 60 yards for a score, giving Dallas a 27-3 lead. Cleveland’s offense finally woke up, but found themselves in 3rd-and-10 from just inside the Cowboys’ 16-yard line. The pass was complete to Amari Cooper for what looked like 10 yards, but things got weird when Cleveland races up to the line of scrimmage for a quick snap. The Cowboys were able to thwart a bootleg by QB Dashaun Watson as rookie Marshawn Kneeland had pressure and Watson threw the ball out of the end zone. Dallas’ defense celebrated wildly for what seemed like a first down incompletion, and then all of a sudden Dak Prescott and the Cowboys offense was on the field. What happened? The expedited attempt by Cleveland fooled the Cowboys into thinking it was fourth down, that the completion was short of the yard marker, and they had a stand. And guess what? They weren’t exactly wrong. Looking closely at the placement of the ball after the prior first down and where it was marked after Cooper’s catch, and it looks like the ball was just shy of a full 10 yards. While these captures are of after the ball had been handled by the Browns’ center, the placements were equidistant to their respective lines, the 16 and the 6. It should’ve been at least a measurement by the officials, but as sometimes is the case, a 27-3 game is raced towards completion. Dallas head coach Mike McCarthy wanted to challenge, but he’d have needed to have done so before the snap of the missed throw.
Instant Analysis: Prescott re-signing leaves Cowboys window open as perennial contenders for foreseeable future
Instant Analysis: Prescott re-signing leaves Cowboys window open as perennial contenders for foreseeable future reidhanson The saga is now finally over. After months of “will they or won’t they” the Cowboys inked their franchise quarterback to a new $240 million deal that will keep last season’s MVP runner up in Dallas for four more years. The move also keeps the Cowboys firmly entrenched as a playoff team for the foreseeable future. The Cowboys have been at a crossroads this offseason. Blessed with incredible talent at multiple key positions, their star power is the envy of all but a handful of teams. Unfortunately for them, the majority of that star power has also been on the hunt for new top-of-the-market contracts. Like a lot of successful businesses, the Cowboys, the most valuable professional sports franchise in the world, loves to make money but doesn’t love to spend money. The ideal of delivering market setting deal after market setting deal doesn’t particularly appeal to them and usually prompts a press conference lecture involving pie. It’s part of the reason why CeeDee Lamb’s negotiations dragged on until after the preseason and it also contributed as to why Prescott’s went all the way to the back half of the 11th hour. Lamb’s deal always felt like a forgone conclusion, but Prescott’s deal wasn’t ever so forgone. In Prescott’s previous deal, agent Todd France included a no trade and no franchise tag stipulation. It meant Prescott could walk free and clear this coming March if the Cowboys didn’t pony up acceptable terms. Critics of Prescott within the fanbase seemed to welcome a departure. Even though starting over at quarterback would potentially waste the best years of Dallas’ best players’ careers, there was bad blood in the fanbase and some people just wanted to move on. It’s somewhat understandable they didn’t want to pay a guy the most money if he wasn’t the best player. By their logic everyone should fall into place behind Patrick Mahomes. This type of thinking might follow basic logic, but it doesn’t fit the reality of the NFL. In today’s NFL, middle ground is hard to come by, especially in matters of contracts. With the salary cap growing year-over-year, the price of doing business escalates correspondingly. The highest paid QB is typically the most recently signed QB, not the highest performing QB. Prescott, coming off his best season as a pro, easily makes the case his best football is still ahead of him. Wins are a team stat, but QB play determines winners and losers more than any other position in the NFL. Not just any QB will do. Without strong play under center, the Cowboys have little chance of succeeding in the regular season, let alone the postseason. It doesn’t matter how talented the roster is, bus drivers very rarely lead their teams to the ultimate goal. Obviously, Prescott will have to play better than he played against Green Bay last postseason but Dallas’ playoff drudging of the Tom Brady-led Buccaneers shows he can. Besides, the entire Cowboys roster has had issues performing in the postseason. It spans throughout Mike McCarthy’s four-year term as head coach and back through the Jason Garrett era as well. The issue is bigger than just one QB or just one coach. It’s a team issue. What Prescott’s retainment means is the Cowboys will have a seat at the table for the foreseeable future. Since 2016, the Cowboys have either finished first or second in the division when Prescott’s at the helm. They are perennial contenders despite constant coaching and personnel churn. He makes the retainment of Lamb worth it. He makes the Cowboys investment in their offensive line worth it. He allows the Cowboys to go cheap at running back and the coaching staff to open up the extended version of the playbook where the only limit is their imagination. Even Prescott critics must see starting over at QB could be a disaster for the Cowboys. Keeping Prescott in Dallas ensures the Cowboys remain in the playoff mix and for the foreseeable future, Super Bowl contenders. [affiliatewidget_smgtolocal] Read all the best Cowboys coverage at the Austin American-Statesman and Cowboys Wire.
Cowboys 54-man roster for Week 1 vs Browns: Lamb activated, elevation shows LB depth a concern
Quarterbacks (3) INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 11: Dak Prescott #4 of the Dallas Cowboys throws before a preseason game the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium on August 11, 2024 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) Dak Prescott Cooper Rush Trey Lance Running Backs (4) INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 11: Ezekiel Elliott #15 of the Dallas Cowboys after a preseason game at SoFi Stadium on August 11, 2024 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) Ezekiel Elliott Rico Dowdle Hunter Luepke Deuce Vaughn Tight Ends (4) Dec 24, 2023; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson (87) runs with the football against the Miami Dolphins during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports Jake Ferguson Luke Schoonmaker John Stephens, Jr. (ruled out – hamstring) Brevyn Spann-Ford Wide Receivers (6) OXNARD, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 8: Wide receiver Brandin Cooks #3 of the Dallas Cowboys is tackled by cornerback Cobie Durant #14 of the Los Angeles Rams after making a catch during joint practice at training camp on August 8, 2024 in Oxnard, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images) CeeDee Lamb Brandin Cooks Jalen Tolbert Kavontae Turpin Jalen Brooks Ryan Flournoy Offensive Tackles (4) OXNARD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 30: Offensive tackle Tyler Guyton #60 of the Dallas Cowboys stretches during training camp on July 30, 2024 in Oxnard, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images) Tyler Guyton Terence Steele Asim Richards Matt Waletzko Offensive Guards (3) Jun 4, 2024; Frisco, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys guard Zack Martin (70) runs through a drill during practice at the Ford Center at the Star Training Facility in Frisco, Texas. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports Zack Martin Tyler Smith TJ Bass Centers (2) OXNARD, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 8: Defensive tackle Kobie Turner #91 of the Los Angeles Rams locks up with center Brock Hoffman #67 of the Dallas Cowboys during a skirmish between the two teams during joint practice at training camp on August 8, 2024 in Oxnard, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images) Cooper Beebe Brock Hoffman Defensive Ends (5) Jul 30, 2024; Oxnard, CA, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence (90) and linebacker Micah Parsons (11) during training camp at the River Ridge Playing Fields in Oxnard, California. Mandatory Credit: Jason Parkhurst-USA TODAY Sports Micah Parsons Tank Lawrence Marshawn Kneeland Chauncey Golston Tyrus Wheat Defensive Tackles (4) OXNARD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 30: Linebacker Micah Parsons #11 and defensive tackle Mazi Smith #58 of the Dallas Cowboys throw punches aa they jokingly spar prior to a training session on July 30, 2024 in Oxnard, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images) Roster Locks Osa Odighizuwa Mazi Smith Jordan Phillips Linval Joseph Linebackers (6) Jul 27, 2023; Oxnard, CA, USA; Dallas Cowboys linebacker DeMarvion Overshown (35) wears a Guardian helmet cap during training camp at Marriott Residence Inn-River Ridge Playing Fields. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports Eric Kendricks DeMarvion Overshown Damone Clark Marist Liufau Buddy Johnson Nick Vigil (PS elevation) Cornerbacks (5) Oct 2, 2022; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys cornerback DaRon Bland (26) and cornerback Trevon Diggs (7) celebrate after Diggs intercepts a pass against the Washington Commanders during the game at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports Trevon Diggs Jourdan Lewis Caelen Carson Israel Mukuamu Andrew Booth Safeties (4) OXNARD, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 8: Running back Kyren Williams #23 of the Los Angeles Rams rushes against safety Malik Hooker #28 and Donovan Wilson #6 of the Dallas Cowboys during joint practice at training camp on August 8, 2024 in Oxnard, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images) Malik Hooker Donovan Wilson Juanyeh Thomas Markquese Bell Special Teams (4) INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 11: Brandon Aubrey #17 of the Dallas Cowboys watches his field goal with Bryan Anger #5, to take a 12-6 lead over the Los Angeles Rams, in a 13-12 Rams win during a preseason game at SoFi Stadium on August 11, 2024 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) Brandon Aubrey Bryan Anger Trent Sieg CJ Goodwin
Dallas Cowboys vs. Cleveland Browns live stream, TV channel, start time, odds | Week 1 2024
One of the best quarterbacks in the NFL last season will be on display when Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys visit the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, September 8, 2024. The Cowboys clicked on all fronts last season, as they ranked best in scoring offense (29.9 points per game) and fifth-best in scoring defense (18.5 points allowed per game). The Browns compiled 23.3 points per game on offense last season, which ranked them 10th in the NFL. On defense, they ranked 13th, allowing 21.3 points per game. Watch Browns vs. Cowboys on Fubo! Cowboys vs Browns: live streaming info, TV channel & game time Game day: Sunday, September 8, 2024 Game time: 4:25 p.m. ET Location: Cleveland, Ohio Stadium: Cleveland Browns Stadium TV Channel: FOX Live stream: Watch Redzone & other NFL content all season long on Fubo Cowboys vs Browns betting lines NFL odds courtesy of BetMGM. Odds updated Sunday at 1:34 a.m. ET. For a full list of sports betting odds, access USA TODAY Sports Betting Scores Odds Hub. Spread Favorite: Browns (-2.5) Moneyline: Browns (-136), Cowboys (+116) Total: 41 points Watch Browns vs. Cowboys on Fubo! Gannett may earn revenue from sports betting operators for audience referrals to betting services. Sports betting operators have no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. Terms apply, see operator site for Terms and Conditions. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. Call the National Council on Problem Gambling 24/7 at 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ, OH), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN). Must be 21 or older to gamble. Sports betting and gambling are not legal in all locations. Be sure to comply with laws applicable where you reside. We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. Cowboys Wire operates independently, though, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.
Dallas Cowboys vs. Cleveland Browns 2024 odds, tips and betting trends | Week 1
The Cleveland Browns (0-0) square off against the Dallas Cowboys (0-0) on Sunday, September 8, 2024 at Cleveland Browns Stadium. The spread foretells a close game, with the Browns favored by 2.5 points. The over/under in the outing is set at 41 points. The Cowboys were knocked out of the playoffs in the Wild Card round last year, after finishing 12-5 in the regular season. They scored 29.9 points per game (first in NFL) and gave up 18.5 (fifth). A year ago the Browns were knocked out of the playoffs in the Wild Card round, after finishing 11-6 in the regular season. Offensively, they averaged 23.3 points per game (10th in NFL), and they conceded 21.3 per game (13th in NFL) defensively. Cowboys vs Browns betting information NFL odds courtesy of BetMGM Sportsbook. Odds updated Saturday at 5:36 p.m. ET. For a full list of sports betting odds, access USA TODAY Sports Betting Scores Odds Hub. Spread Favorite: Cleveland (-2.5) Moneyline: Cleveland (-136), Dallas (+116) Total: 41 points Cowboys betting insights Dallas was 4-5 overall, and 4-5 against the spread, away from home last season. Against the spread, the Cowboys were 10-7-0 last year. Dallas was winless ATS (0-2) away from home as 2.5-point underdogs or more. The Cowboys were winless ATS (0-2) when playing as at least 2.5-point underdogs last season. Last year, in four of nine road games Dallas hit the over. There were nine Cowboys games (out of 17) that went over the total last year. Cowboys leaders Dak Prescott: 4,516 PASS YDS / 265.6 YPG / 69.5% / 36 TD / 9 INT / 55 CAR / 242 RUSH YDS / 2 TD Ezekiel Elliott: 184 CAR / 642 YDS / 37.8 YPG / 3 TD / 51 REC / 313 YDS / 18.4 YPG / 2 TD Rico Dowdle: 89 CAR / 361 YDS / 22.6 YPG / 2 TD / 17 REC / 144 YDS / 9 YPG / 2 TD CeeDee Lamb: 135 REC / 1,749 YDS / 102.9 YPG / 12 TD Jake Ferguson: 71 REC / 761 YDS / 44.8 YPG / 5 TD Brandin Cooks: 54 REC / 657 YDS / 41.1 YPG / 8 TD Cowboys vs Browns game info Date: Sunday, September 8, 2024 Time: 4:25 p.m. ET City: Cleveland, Ohio Venue: Cleveland Browns Stadium TV Channel: FOX Live Stream: Fubo (Watch Browns vs Cowboys on Fubo) Watch the Dallas Cowboys all season on Fubo! More NFL news Gannett may earn revenue from sports betting operators for audience referrals to betting services. Sports betting operators have no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. Terms apply, see operator site for Terms and Conditions. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. Call the National Council on Problem Gambling 24/7 at 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ, OH), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN). Must be 21 or older to gamble. Sports betting and gambling are not legal in all locations. Be sure to comply with laws applicable where you reside. We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. Cowboys Wire operates independently, though, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.
