Dallas Cowboys: 5 Early bold predictions for the 2017 season
By Jimmy Long
1. Defensive line posts the most sacks it has this decade
You knew one of these predictions was going to involve the defensive line, right? How could it not. The defensive line has been the most heavily scrutinized positional group on the Dallas Cowboys for three-straight years.
Ever since a hobbling Aaron Rodgers continuously evaded the Cowboys “rush men” in the 2014 Playoffs, America’s Team has had a real problem getting to the opposing teams quarterback. Especially when they really need a stop.
To turn this very bold prediction into reality, Rod Marinelli’s “rush men” will need to account for 43 sacks. Back in 2011, when DeMarcus Ware was still sporting the Star, Dallas managed to take down the opposing quarterback 42 times.
Besting that number will require a contribution from every single defensive lineman on the roster. And on top of that, at least one and likely two will need to get close to double-digit sacks. If second year tackle Maliek Collins can take that next step, he’s a candidate to push the Cowboys closer to this goal.
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With David Irving suspended for four games, this may prove to be too tall of a task. It likely is only achievable if unknowns, a la Charles Tapper and Taco Charlton, come out of nowhere and play lights out.