The Dallas Cowboys made their long-awaited return to AT&T Stadium this season, but the outcome was disappointing. They suffered a significant loss against the New Orleans Saints, who managed to score on nearly every drive until the fourth quarter. The overall performance of the team was underwhelming, raising questions about the contributions of the rookie class. How did the newcomers fare amidst such a challenging game?

Assessing OT Tyler Guyton’s Performance

The offensive line showed typical struggles in both pass protection and run blocking during the game. Tyler Guyton faced significant challenges, including allowing a critical sack that impacted the team’s momentum. He was responsible for four overall pressures and received two penalties, highlighting a tough day for him and the entire offensive line. Despite these setbacks, it’s essential to evaluate how Guyton can learn and improve from this performance moving forward. His ability to bounce back will be crucial as the season progresses.

Evaluating DE Marshawn Kneeland’s Contributions

The defensive line’s performance against the Saints was disappointing, revealing deep-rooted issues. Marshawn Kneeland, who had a promising start in Week 1, struggled significantly in this game. Over 19 defensive snaps, he recorded no sacks, no pressures, and only one assisted tackle. The entire defensive line, from veterans to rookies, mirrored this lack of production. The inability to stop the run and apply pressure on the quarterback posed serious challenges, and understanding these dynamics will be vital for future games.

Insights on iOL Cooper Beebe’s Game

In general terms, Cooper Beebe had a somewhat acceptable game, emerging as one of the more effective pass blockers on the team. He did allow one sack, yet aside from that isolated incident, he maintained a steady performance during a challenging matchup. His ability to function effectively under pressure is noteworthy, and as he gains more experience, his consistency will become increasingly vital to the offensive line’s overall success.

POUND Marist Liufau’s Defensive Role

Marist Liufau saw significantly more action in this game, logging 39 defensive snaps — a marked increase from his previous outing. He managed to record four tackles and three key defensive stops. However, he faced challenges as he often found himself unsupported by the defensive line, forcing him to cover large gaps and shed blocks. Additionally, indecision about his positioning further complicated his play. These issues stemmed from the overall poor performance of the defensive line, affecting not just Liufau but also his fellow linebacker DeMarvion Overshown, who struggled to reach the ball carrier due to being overrun by opposing players. The entire linebacker corps faced difficulties, leading to adjustments in defensive strategies. For a rookie like Liufau, navigating through these struggles is crucial for his development.

CB Caelen Carson’s Defensive Snap Count

Caelen Carson participated in 31 defensive snaps and aimed to build on a solid performance from Week 1. He recorded four tackles but unfortunately allowed both targets to be completed for receptions. The secondary faced significant challenges against the Saints, largely due to Derek Carr effectively identifying his targets with minimal pressure from the defensive front. Improving the overall synergy and effectiveness of the secondary will be essential for future matchups.

WR Ryan Flournoy’s Game Status

Ryan Flournoy was inactive for this game and did not participate in any plays. His absence may have impacted the team’s depth at wide receiver, and it will be important to monitor his recovery and potential return to the lineup in upcoming games.

TE Brevyn Spann-Ford’s Blocking Role

With Jake Ferguson sidelined due to a knee injury, Brevyn Spann-Ford stepped up, participating in 22 offensive snaps. His primary contribution came as a blocker, where he showcased effective run-blocking skills against the Saints. Although he was targeted once in the passing game but failed to make the catch, his blocking efforts were notable. As he continues to develop, his role in both blocking and receiving will be critical to the offense.

S Emany Johnson’s Game Status

Emany Johnson was inactive for this game and did not see any action on the field. His status will be closely watched as the team evaluates its safety depth moving forward.

POUND Brock Mogensen’s Game Status

Brock Mogensen was also inactive for this game and did not participate. His contributions will need to be assessed as the season progresses, depending on his health and readiness to contribute.

DT Denzel Daxon’s Game Status

Denzel Daxon was inactive for this game and did not play. Monitoring his status will be crucial as the team looks to strengthen its defensive front in future matchups.