David Blough's offense was a mixed bag in Week 1 of his tenure as offensive coordinator. The Washington Commanders started slowly but finished strong against the Philadelphia Eagles. The first-time NFL play-caller also has one trick left up his sleeve that he didn't use nearly enough at Lincoln Financial Field.
Everyone knows how the Dallas Cowboys linebacker unit struggled against the New York Giants on Sunday Night Football. They were abysmal from start to finish, and DeMarvion Overshown is once again dealing with injury problems, which only raises concerns.
The Commanders can take advantage of this. And it should all start with Blough calling more play-action shots at AT&T Stadium.
Commanders must unleash more play-action against the suspect Cowboys defense
Blough didn't deploy much play-action in Philadelphia. Perhaps the offensive coordinator was wary about the Eagles generating pressure with just four defensive linemen, which is fair. But the Cowboys aren't as strong, so a little more creativity could provide the spark they need.
And it might be a surprise the Cowboys don't see coming.
The Commanders still have the element of surprise in their favor, which is rare between these two bitter division rivals. Blough has called only one game, and there is no way he's unleashed his full bag of nuances yet. With the stakes this high, there's never been a better time to do just that.
First, the Commanders must establish the run. They have the options to make things difficult, but the offensive line must help more. They won't be going up against Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis, but they do have the supreme threat of Quinnen Williams to counteract.
Difficult, but not impossible.
Play-action can unlock a different side of Commanders' offense in Dallas
If the trenches are secure and the ground game keeps the Cowboys' defense guessing, play-action will be critical. Teams always have to account for quarterback Jayden Daniels' rushing ability, and Dallas' second level will show some extra hesitancy that could be exploited.
They also have the wide receiver to make this happen. Terry McLaurin, Stefon Diggs, and Antonio Williams wouldn't be classed as burners by any stretch, but they recognize soft spots in coverage and are prolific in one-on-one matchups. If the Cowboys are forced to stack the box, that will open things up considerably.
And, of course, Daniels' deep-ball prowess is renowned and respected in equal measure.
Before eating, you have to lay the table. Washington's ground game will be tasked with this responsibility. If they get early success, play-action will inevitably become a factor.
Daniels is now more comfortable playing under center, too. It's one of the primary reasons why Kliff Kingsbury was removed, and Blough was installed. There would be no better time to show it than in Dallas as the Commanders look to avoid going 0-2 on the year.
Let's see if all the pieces come together.
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