Since Mike McCarthy became head coach of the Cowboys offensive line three years ago, the starting five have changed.
Against the New York Giants on Sunday, why would it be any different?
Tyler Smith, a left guard, is listed as doubtful after suffering a hamstring strain during Monday’s practice. That implies he’s probably not going to play.
Tyron Smith, left tackle, is listed as questionable after tweaking his ankle during Thursday’s practice.
Both are scheduled to participate in limited portions of Saturday’s practice, and McCarthy stated that what they are able to do will determine whether they can play against the Giants.
Veteran Chuma Edoga and fourth-round pick Asim Richards have been getting the most work in those spots if both are unable to play. If Tyron Smith can play left tackle, it will be interesting to see if McCarthy uses Richards at guard because he will have to choose between Smith and center Tyler Biadasz, two experienced players.
“That’s really something we’ve been dealing with since I arrived here,” McCarthy said of juggling the offensive line. “We do have some experience with it. We talked about this throughout camp, how the offensive line is the one position we worked every combination possible.
“We’ve been working all of the different combinations. Hopefully, those reps will pay off.”
The team announced that running backs coach Jeff Blasko will be absent from Sunday’s game due to a medical leave of absence. The offensive team will share his coaching responsibilities.
On the final practice report, safety Donovan Wilson (doubtful) and defensive end Sam Williams (questionable) were also mentioned. Since the beginning of training camp toward the end of July, Wilson has not participated in a full week of practice.
McCarthy said, “I don’t think that’s practical to jump right back in for the amount of time Dono has missed,’’ regarding Wilson’s snap count in the event that he returns. You need to return him to being a full-time player.
