Blogging The Boys
Every week, we’re digging into the trenches, offense and defense, because that’s where the real action happens. In this installment, we’re shining a spotlight on the offensive line, who’s holding it down, who’s opening holes for the running backs, and who’s keeping Dak Prescott clean. Let’s get to it.
(2025 Stats: 473 Total Snaps, 305 Pass Blocks, 24 Pressures, 6 QB Hits, 1 Sacks, 5 Penalties)
Guyton goes into Arizona with a clear to-do list after Denver exposed a few issues. In a game where Dallas conceded two sacks and 19 total pressures, he was tagged for three pressures and a drive-stalling flag, most of it coming when speed-to-power turned into inside counters. The Cardinals won’t bring a single threat, they instead try to sack as unit and Nick Rallis’ front has logged 12 sacks, that’s the fourth least so far this season. The defense leans on Josh Sweat and Baron Browning off the edge, and they combined for seven of those 12 sacks, while Calais Campbell and the interior try to knife through on twists.
Communication is key for Guyton this week. Both Guyton and Tyler Smith must treat every third down like the inevitable stunt is coming, so being prepared for it together means they are ready to pass off their initial block to pick up the stunt rusher.
The reason for optimism is warranted against the Cardinals with Guyton due to his best traits. Size, length, recovery footwork, and a functional anchor all stack up perfectly against Arizona’s by-committee rush. Guyton can set the tone here and help keep the tempo for Dak and the rest of the offense. He is very much a key part 0f this game.
(2025 Stats: 480 Total snaps, 311 Pass Blocks, 9 Pressures, 0 QB Hits, 1 Sacks, 7 Penalties)
Smith heads into this week off a rough afternoon in Denver. Smith was charged with only one pressure, but he did surrender a crucial sack. The Cardinals’ pass rush has been more bark than bite so far this year with a 17% pressure rate (27th), and 20% blitz rate (24th), which means they try to win with movement and angles up front rather than a constant one-man army or linebackers breaking through.
Smith can use his power to dictate the middle as the team leans on inside zone and quick plays to move the pocket, stalling Arizona’s ability to get to Dak quickly. On third-down plays, the combination of Smith and Guyton working in unison will play a vital key in keeping drives alive.
(2025 Stats: 415 Total Snaps, 256 Pass Blocks, 11 Pressures, 4 QB Hits, 1 Sacks, 2 Penalties)
We’ll briefly review Hoffman, but it seems likely that Cooper Beebe will be back as the center on Monday night. Hoffman has once again proved he is a capable player who has the ability to start for many teams in the NFL. His...
