The Dallas Cowboys are back. After a long-awaited return, America’s Team was back in action and did not disappoint. After a few setbacks for the offense caused by penalties, the Cowboys immediately took control of the game and took a big lead over the Cleveland Browns. Thanks to a 20-3 first-half lead, the Cowboys were able to hold the Browns to 0 of 5 third-down attempts. The defense made life difficult for Deshaun Watson, holding him and the Browns to a pathetic 2.3 yards per attempt by halftime. The Cowboys continued their onslaught after halftime when KaVontae Turpin returned a punt 60 yards for a touchdown, effectively putting the Browns out of the game early in the third quarter. It was a dominating performance and a great start for the Cowboys. Here’s a closer look at the players who helped the Cowboys win.
Carson Artists
The Cowboys rely heavily on rookie Caelen Carson, drafted in the fifth round. Expecting a rookie to perform as well as he did while facing the difficult task of competing with crafty route runners like Amari Cooper and Jerry Jeudy is a tall order. On Sunday, Carson’s traits were as good as advertised. His excellent instincts for recognizing routes as they develop put him in ideal positions in coverage several times. A few times he was able to jump routes and nearly score interceptions. The Browns tested Carson extensively, and he didn’t panic when the ball was in flight. Not once did Carson look like the moment was too big for him or overwhelmed by his first NFL game. As the Cowboys await DaRon Bland’s return, Carson gives the defensive coaching staff confidence and they should be pleased with his composure.
CeeDee Lamb
It has to be the money. Fresh off the roster, Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb were back together, and Lamb showed why the Cowboys paid so much for him. Lamb is one of the NFL’s most fearless receivers when it comes to running over the middle. Lamb drew the attention of the Browns’ talented defense and had no hesitation in sacrificing his body under the middle to make difficult catches. Arguably his best catch of the day was a 34-yard catch over Denzel Ward, much to the chagrin of the Browns’ sideline. Lamb contributed a spirited 25 yards in the running game, another shining example of his toughness. He led the team with 61 receiving yards. Lamb’s performance was modest by his usual standards. However, he reaffirmed his status as the engine of the Cowboys’ offense and seemed ready to give the Cowboys an immediate return on their investment with a new contract.
Michael Parsons
Micah Parsons is incredible. What else is new? The Dallas pass rush was relentless, stopping in the Browns backfield all afternoon. Without their two best tackles, the Browns were pressured by the Cowboys pass rush under Micah Parsons. Parsons recorded nine quarterback pressures against the Browns’ makeshift offensive line. Their unit was nervous at the prospect of having to stop Parsons. He took several pre-snap penalties against backup tackle Dawand Jones. Parsons was lined up all over the field with multiple offensive linemen covering him, which meant nothing. He handled double coverage and countless chips from the running backs, but still managed to make life difficult for Watson and the Browns. The Lion pounced on the Browns.
DeMarvion outshines
It’s easy to forget that this was DeMarvion Overshown’s first regular-season game as a pro. However, Overshown looked like a seasoned veteran. His best trait is his explosive speed for the position. He moves like a safety but hits with the same power as a linebacker. Overshown was a heat-seeking missile as he blasted his way into the Browns’ ball carriers. Overshown led all players with 11 tackles, including six solo. He also participated in the sack frenzy and managed to sack Deshaun Watson. Watson’s defining trait as a passer is extending plays from outside the pocket and reaching his playmakers far down the field. With Overshown on his heels, that didn’t happen. The mobile quarterbacks the Cowboys will face had better watch out. Overshown is an excellent counter to defend quarterbacks outside the pocket, and his athleticism is an asset the team is happy to have.
Demarcus Lawrence
DeMarcus Lawrence made one spectacular play after another. Aside from constantly getting close to Watson with plenty of quarterback knockdowns and pressure points, he also played excellently in the running game, as we have seen for years. Lawrence dropped the ball carrier in the backfield three times. He also sacked Watson twice, including forcing a fumble. The professional with 11 years of experience is still in top form.
Eric Kendricks
What was a weakness has become a strength as the Cowboys have a group of talented linebackers led by Eric Kendricks. Kendricks was also there to catch a pass deflected by Parsons. The linebacker unit looked great and Kendricks’ two sacks were a sight to behold.
