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Head coach Brian Schottenheimer said there would be big changes coming during the bye week. They've added new players and some will be returning from injury, but are there other changes we might see as far as schemes or decision making? – Anthony Williams/Shreveport, LA
Mickey: Well, integrating those new players and putting those returning from injury back on the field would qualify as big changes, especially with Quinnen Williams, who is big to start with. As for scheme changes or change in starters, that remains to be seen, and I'm guessing Schottenheimer doesn't want to let all that out of the bag to provide the Raiders with an updated scouting report. We might get a better idea of all that once the team returns to practice on Thursday. But even though the Cowboys are coming off their bye week, doesn't mean they have the time to reinvent the wheel. The CBA doesn't allow for extra practices during the bye week, wanting the players to have time off, and the Cowboys don't have extra practices scheduled for this week, still dealing with the death of Marshawn Kneeland and making sure the players are doing well dealing with the loss of a beloved teammate.
Tommy: If there ever is a time to make changes, it's during the bye week. Well, leading into it, the Cowboys helped their personnel by adding Quinnen Williams on the defensive line and Logan Wilson to their linebacker core. They'll also get DeMarvion Overshown and Shavon Revel, although there's likely a ramp up period for both waiting, back as well as some other injured players. I think the biggest change you could likely see would be from a personnel standpoint, not necessarily a schematic one. Essentially, Dallas has an opportunity to use their new pieces to see if other players can excel in different areas, something that is very possible and could be one of the reasons for their struggles. What could that look like? More five man fronts with their defensive line, Logan Wilson playing middle linebacker, DaRon Bland moving to the slot if Shavon Revel shows he's ready for a starting role, the list goes on. In short, the Cowboys' biggest reason why there could be change following the bye is because for the first time in a while this season, they have options.
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