The Dallas Cowboys have experienced challenges without Dak Prescott before and their performance left much to be desired. Since Cooper Rush is no longer on the team, all eyes are now being directed toward Joe Milton who was meant to fill in as Prescott’s successor – but his recent performances haven’t filled fans with much optimism; prompting calls for Head Coach Brian Schottenheimer to change his strategy with regard to quarterback development.
Concerns over Milton’s leadership were highlighted by NFL Network’s Jane Slater when she reviewed Milton’s preseason performance and noted offensive struggles of his team – particularly regarding run game play – raising red flags about its one-dimensional approach.
Jane Slater highlighted a particularly telling sequence where poor performance on a run play led to a sack and safety against the Cowboys, underscoring the broader issues with Dallas’s ground game which was underwhelming last season with an average of just four yards per carry.
In defense of Milton, Schottenheimer acknowledged some of the quarterback’s challenges but pointed out that the issues were not solely on Milton, citing examples where the team could have provided better support.
Yet, the persistence of these issues has only emphasized concerns about the Cowboys’ readiness for another season, especially reminiscent of 2020’s struggles after Prescott’s injury. The team faces pressure to ensure adequate backup for Prescott or to simplify their offensive strategy.
Milton’s Struggle in the Spotlight
Before the kickoff of a recent game, Jerry Jones expressed hope to see Milton make progress, a sentiment that quickly faltered as Milton faced intense pressure from the opposing defense. Despite a rough start, Milton showed some resilience, finding moments of success in the second half, yet questions about his suitability as Prescott’s backup remain.
The offense has been labeled as “vanilla,” a term used to describe the lack of creativity and predictability in play-calling observed during joint practices and preseason games. This simplistic approach, while reducing risks, has also limited the team’s dynamism, particularly in the running game.
Comparisons between Milton and Will Grier, another quarterback competing for a backup position, underline Schottenheimer’s dilemma. Grier demonstrated greater willingness to take risks, unlike Milton who demonstrated more restrained play.
As their quarterback situation remains tenuous, the Cowboys find themselves at an impasse, needing to balance developing backup quarterbacks against maintaining an offense capable of operating should Prescott not be available.