NFL Analysis: Preseason Week 2 Cowboys vs Seahawks

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In a thrilling NFL Saturday Night encounter, the Seattle Seahawks, driven by the proficiency of Geno Smith and Drew Lock, triumphed over the Dallas Cowboys with a scoreline of 22-14.

The Seahawks, with a preseason record of 2-0, granted some of their primary athletes short-lived playtime, contrasting with the Cowboys’ strategy. Dallas, sitting at a preseason record of 0-2, chose to keep the lion’s share of their starters as mere observers.

Geno Smith, exhibiting precision in his gameplay, had a couple of drives shielded by his starting O-line, culminating in a remarkable 57-yard field goal delivered by Jason Myers. Registering 46 yards from 5 completions out of 6 attempts, Smith’s cameo was very brief yet efficient.

Entering the scene in the second quarter, Drew Lock displayed the depth of Seattle’s bench strength. He showcased why, if thrust into a primary role, he could keep the Seahawks flying high. With 119 yards from 5 completions in 6 attempts, his highlight was a 48-yard launch to the promising rookie Jaxon Smith-Njigba. This play subsequently laid the groundwork for DeeJay Dallas to sprint a 1-yard distance for a touchdown.

Seattle’s arsenal also featured SaRodorick Thompson, who added another 1-yard touchdown run, pushing the Seahawks to a 17-7 lead by halftime. Lock’s appearance was briefly hampered following a hit from Sam Williams, which invoked a penalty for rough play. Seattle’s coach, Pete Carroll, remarked that there were intentions to utilize Lock more, but caution prevailed. Lock, however, remains optimistic about his condition.

On the other side, the Cowboys’ Cooper Rush, standing in for Dak Prescott, played up to the second quarter. His tally read 96 yards from 9 completions in 14 attempts, which included a 6-yard touchdown pass to running back Rico Dowdle. Adding a dash of excitement was Deuce Vaughn’s dynamic 14-yard touchdown dash, hinting at Dallas closing the gap at 17-14 during the third quarter’s commencement.

However, the Cowboys’ attempt to equalize or surpass was thwarted. Seattle’s Tre Brown intercepted a pass from Will Grier at a crucial juncture, and Grier’s woes multiplied with a 20-yard sack late in the game. Contributing to Seattle’s defense, John Hall notably blocked a Cowboys’ punt, resulting in a safety.

Both teams are slated for a rendezvous in the regular season in Texas, come late November. Coach Carroll stated that if the upcoming regular-season game against the Cowboys had been earlier, this preseason encounter might have posed strategic concerns. However, with their regular-season clash set for Week 13, such worries are moot.

Injury Report

Sadly, games like these are not without their casualties. Dallas might face a blow with rookie linebacker DeMarvion Overshown exiting early due to a left knee injury. Acquired in the third round from Texas, Overshown’s injury could impact Dallas’s defensive plans. Adding to the injury list is offensive tackle Matt Waletzko with a shoulder issue, TE John Stephens (knee), and safety Sheldrick Redwine (hamstring). Keep an eye on these injuries as they will affect NFL Lines.

A noteworthy penalty occurred against Dallas S Juanyeh Thomas for taunting, leading to a drive extension. This drive later set the stage for DeeJay Dallas’s touchdown.

Interesting Performances

Deuce Vaughn, Dallas’s rookie running back, initially made waves, brilliantly dodging defenders for a touchdown. However, subsequent attempts proved challenging.

For the Seahawks, edge defender Boye Mafe’s presence was a constant menace for the Cowboys, registering multiple pressures and run stops. Rookie receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, despite limited playtime, managed three catches, amassing 58 yards.

Conversely, Cowboys’ Mazi Smith failed to rectify his previous inconsistencies. Seahawks’ Charles Cross was decent but had a lapse, letting Cowboys’ Sam Williams slide past for a sack in the first half.

The game provided ample food for thought for both teams as they continue to refine their strategies for the upcoming season and help shape NFL Odds.