Dallas Cowboys offensive line changes fail in first half vs Lions

The changes to the offensive line did not lead to success for the Cowboys in the first half against Detroit.

Oct 13, 2024; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) throws during the first quarter against the Detroit Lions at AT&T Stadium. / Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Heading into their Week 6 showdown with the Detroit Lions, the Dallas Cowboys made some changes to their offensive line they hoped would help their struggling offense.

After Tyler Guyton was hurt during their Week 5 win in Pittsburgh, the Cowboys moved Tyler Smith to left tackle and brought T.J. Bass in to play left guard. They stuck with that group against the Lions but after one half, the results are far from what they hoped for.

Oct 13, 2024; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Rico Dowdle (23) is tackled by Detroit Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone (34) and Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson (97) during the first quarter at AT&T Stadium. / Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Dallas had just 111 yards and six points in the first half as they trail 27-6. The ground game has been especially troublesome with 14 yards on eight attempts. That's an atrocious 1.8 yards per attempt.

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Their passing attack isn't much better with Dak Prescott completing 11-of-20 attempts for 115 yards with an interception.

The O-line even surrendered a sack right after KaVontae Turpin went for 79 yards on a kickoff return right before the half. It was a long shot they would score a touchdown with just 28 seconds to play but they stood no chance with the poor protection.

Dallas was heavily criticized for their moves this offseason, which included allowing Tyron Smith to walk in free agency and avoiding every available running back.

Even with these changes, it's hard to defend the approach from the front office.

Oct 6, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Dallas Cowboys offensive tackle Tyler Guyton (60) blocks at the line of scrimmage against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first quarter at Acrisure Stadium. / Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

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