Jalon Daniels' rushing ability vs. Cowboys edge rushers
Daniels immediately showed how dangerous he can be with his legs against Green Bay, rushing for 55 yards on eight attempts, including a 21-yard scramble. Dallas has struggled to generate pressure, recording just four sacks in four games, tied for the second-fewest in football. That gives Daniels an opportunity to exploit defenders who become too aggressive getting upfield. When Dallas' edge rushers lose contain, Daniels has the speed to turn those openings into significant gains. Zac Robinson should also incorporate designed quarterback runs and read options, forcing defenders to account for Daniels instead of attacking the running back every play.
Bucs offensive line vs. Cowboys defensive line
Tampa Bay's offensive line has struggled considerably, allowing a league-high 16 sacks through
four games. However, Dallas has not consistently generated pressure despite having talented defenders such as Quinnen Williams and Rashan Gary. The Cowboys have recorded only four sacks, creating an opportunity for Tampa Bay's protection to finally settle down. Tristan Wirfs has bounced back after a difficult opener, but the interior will face a significant challenge against Williams. If the Bucs can prevent penetration up the middle and give Daniels a cleaner pocket, the offense should have more opportunities to attack a Dallas secondary allowing 239.3 passing yards per game.
Bucs running backs vs. Cowboys linebackers
Dallas has been particularly vulnerable to the run, allowing 150.3 rushing yards per game, the second-most in the NFL. That creates an opportunity for Bucky Irving and Sean Tucker to establish a rushing attack while forcing Dallas' linebackers to make tackles in space. Irving has rushed for 241 yards through four games, while Tucker made an immediate impact against Green Bay with a fourth-down conversion and touchdown on just three carries. Tampa Bay should challenge the Cowboys' linebackers with outside runs, cutback lanes, and opportunities for its backs to catch passes underneath. Dallas has also allowed opponents to convert 52.3 percent of their third downs, making the run game an important aspect of the Bucs' game plan.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Where the Bucs have the biggest advantages against Dallas
