I recently read that the Cowboys were last in the league in terms of forcing turnovers. Despite playing solid defense(16.5 ppg), they have only forced 23 turnovers this season. I haven’t seen the defensive backs dropping a lot of passes, so that is not the answer. I also haven’t seen this team miss out on a lot of fumble recovery opportunities so that can’t be the cause either. There must be a reason why the Cowboys can’t seem to get the ball back from the other team. Although it is easy to say that they just haven’t been lucky or gotten the right bounces, there is a definitely a method to causing turnovers and it all starts up front. The Cowboys front seven needs to be coached up on the value of turnovers and wreaking havoc in the backfield. Although they do a good job of getting to the passer, they do not get their hands on enough passes and they have not mastered the art of the strip-sack. These will become necessary habits if the Cowboys wish to make any noise in the post-season.
The easiest way to get an interceptionis for the defensive line to knock the ball up in the air so that an awaiting defensive back, linebacker, or even a fellow lineman can intercept the ball. I haven’t seen that nearly enough with this football team. Although they are getting good hits on the quarterback, they are putting their heads down and going right for the chest. If you are running free to the quarterback you should come under control with your hands up. If you are blocked at the line and there is no way for you to get to the passer, then you need to watch for the quarterback’s release and get your hands up. This approach will lead to one of three things:
1.) The quarterback will throw an errant pass because his vision is blocked
2.) The pass will be tipped to the ground or up in the air into the arms of a teammate
3.) The quarterback will hesitate, which ruins the timing of the pass or lead to a sack
Speaking of sacks, the Cowboys need to put on some tape of James Harrison, Dwight Freeney, and Robert Mathis. These guys have truly mastered the art of the strip-sack. They are not just trying to pad their stats; they are trying to change the momentum of the football game. Last week, immediately after Matt Schaub threw a pick-six to the Colts, he was stripped on the next drive by Mathis and the Colts went on to increase their lead. The Texans were up by 17 points at one point, but a series of turnovers completely changed the game. The Cowboys often seem satisfied with just getting the sack, and that is not how championships are won. If you can get to the quarterback, you can get to the ball. Even if you’re just inches away from the quarterback, the ball is often in reach…knock the damn thing out!
Let’s review for all defensive lineman and rush linebackers. Hands up when pass rushing or stalled at the line. Don’t be satisfied with the sack; remove the ball from the quarterback’s hands at all cost.
(The following public service announcement has been sponsored by your local Boys & Girls Club)
