The Cowboys might emerge from their Week 6 bye as an entirely different team. They have informed Brandon Weeden that he’s been benched for Matt Cassel, but they’re also looking at ways to improve their running game, which was No. 1 in the NFL last year.
The first change the Cowboys are considering is making Christine Michael the starter over Joseph Randle. Michael has been referred to as a “hammer” by Cowboys coach Jason Garrett, and has remained highly touted despite registering just 54 career carries. Michael has also been helped by Randle’s poor decision-making of late. In back-to-back games, both losses, Randle risked a turnover by recklessly reaching the ball out over the goal line while fighting through crowds of defenders.
Tim Tebow Can Help Dallas' Running Game More Than Anyone
During Dallas’ 2-3 start, their committee hasn’t been able to match the production they had with DeMarco Murray a season ago. The most effective back has actually been Lance Dunbar; he was serving as arguably Dallas’ top wide receiver, but he tore his ACL last week and is out for the rest of 2015. Randle hasn’t topped 100 yards rushing yet, and is averaging fewer than four yards per carry.
Darren McFadden is another option, but he’s averaging just 3.5 yards per carry in 2015, and looks like he is slotting into the pass-catching role Dunbar vacated. McFadden caught nine of 10 targets last week for 62 yards.
Christine Michael Isn't Capable Of Replacing Lance Dunbar
In addition to a running back switch, the Cowboys are considering switching out right guard Ron Leary for rookie La’El Collins, a natural tackle. Collins was the top lineman prospect in the 2015 draft, but went undrafted entirely due to Louisiana police wanting to question him about the murder of an ex-girlfriend. Collins was not a suspect, but the investigation spooked teams, and Collins’ agent informed teams that if he lasted beyond a certain point, he would not sign.
#Cowboys using bye to consider 2 more starting lineup changes: Christine Michael for Joseph Randle at RB, La'El Collins for Ron Leary at LG
— Ed Werder (@Edwerderespn) October 14, 2015
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