The Dallas Cowboys got a very nice win to start the season after forcing six turnovers against the Giants, but one thing that was lacking throughout was the running game and while DeMarco Murray had over 80 yards, it was a very unimpressive performance from the unit to open the year.
Murray finished with 20 carries in the game, while Philip Tanner finished with just one carry for two yards, while Tony Romo threw the ball 49 times, putting up 263 yards and two touchdowns. The Cowboys should have won by at least 15 with all the turnovers they had, but the Giants were able to hang in there and even though the Cowboys got the win, there will be plenty to look at on film this week in the running game.
Overall, according to ESPN.com, the team averaged under 4.0 yards per carry and did not look very impressive and while the team got the win, Jason Garrett may have to find other ways to be more consistent on offense. Romo was worked hard on Sunday night and he came through for the Cowboys after failing so many times and Bill Callahan showed a bit how he wants to run things, with Tony Romo making the most plays for the Cowboys.
The passing game was very efficient and since the Giants were dealing with injuries to the secondary, that could mean that it was just a one-game thing and could be more consistent next game against the Chiefs. Kansas City looked good in its opening win, but it was against Jacksonville and the Cowboys should be much tougher. Last season the team was ranked near the bottom of the league in rushing and while they are now 13th in average rushing yards after getting just about 90 against the Giants, Callahan will likely continue to try and fix it.
"As a running back, and I know the guys up front feel the same way, whenever you run the ball it gives you that physical presence," said Murray. "That's how you can control the game and control the line of scrimmage. It was a good deal for us."
