'Himothy!' Dallas Cowboys Star Micah Parsons Earns Respect of Buffalo Bills

'Micah is 'Himothy!' The Buffalo Bills offensive line has played well this year, but the Dallas Cowboys, led by edge rusher Parsons, present its toughest task of the season in Week 15.

Few things in football are more infrequent than an offensive lineman admitting he's scared. So, Dallas Cowboys fans will have to settle for their opponents tipping the cap before a road game against the Buffalo Bills.

Make no mistake, the Bills know an elite Cowboys pass rush is just days away from trying to wreak havoc on their playoff chances. They’re fighting for the right to make the AFC playoffs while Dallas hones in on an NFC East championship.

This week, Buffalo left tackle – and Walter Payton Man of the Year award nominee – Dion Dawkins spoke about the challenges that come with facing superstar edge rusher Micah Parsons.

Cowboys EDGE Micah Parsons takes down Philadelphia Eagles QB Jalen Hurts / Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

“For him to be that strong and that physical and to be that size – not calling him little, but he’s smaller than the average guys, compared to like a Myles Garrett – so those guys are always the anomaly,” Dawkins said of the 6-3, 250-pound Parsons. “Because they're drastically different, and they’re great players. 

"But Parsons is ‘Himothy,’ times two, so we understand.”

Dawkins himself is having a nice year, ranking inside the top 16 in Pro Football Focus’ offense and pass-blocking grades, but he’s well aware of how dangerous Parsons is. The Cowboys superstar is challenged only by Garrett and San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa for the title of best edge rusher in the sport.

With 12.5 sacks, Parsons is once again amongst the league’s elite. Parsons and Bosa are tied for the most pressures in football, and only Garrett ranks higher by PFF’s pass rush win rate. He’s certifiably elite, but he’s not alone on a strong Dallas front.

“Not to say it’s just 11, their whole front is great, their whole defense is great,” Dawkins said. “I don’t want to single out Parsons as if we’re only playing Parsons. They have great players.”

Fellow edge rusher Demarcus Lawrence and defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa have both benefited greatly from Parsons’ presence. Even while sick, he’s the motor to an imposing defense that ranks third in expected points added per play.

Part of that threat is his versatility. Defensive coordinator Dan Quinn is happy to move him around the box to find new looks and exploitative matchups, meaning Buffalo has to be vigilant before every snap.

“Just keeps us on our toes,” Dawkins said. “Keeps us dialed in because we have to be aware of where he is at all times because he can play linebacker, he can play [defensive] end, he could play [defensive] tackle. Shoot, probably could play corner.”

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Week 15’s action promises fireworks in Western New York, headlined by two MVP candidates and some of the most dynamic defenders in the sport. Parsons’ ability to leave his mark on Sunday’s game could be crucial to the Cowboys’ NFC East aspirations.