The duo of Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb had homework going into the bye week, the usually dominant offensive duo having been disjointed on several occasions throughout the first six games of the 2024 season — creating a key driver in the Dallas Cowboys’ inability to consistently find the end zone.
With two weeks to recalibrate and to prepare for the coming battle against the San Francisco 49ers, the two attacked the issue in balance with also allowing their bodies (and minds) to rest and reset.
“We love a bye week,” said Lamb. “Let’s just say that we took advantage of it. Anything we felt like we missed out on together as a unit, as a duo, we hopped on it and got right to work, used every day, every opportunity that we could to get better. I feel like it’s going to show.”
For his part, Prescott agrees.
“I can just tell you now, it’s been better in these last couple of days,” he added.
Having drawn criticism as of late from Hall of Fame quarterback and Cowboys’ legend Troy Aikman, Lamb accepted the intent behind the statement and isn’t shying away from the accountability component of it all.
“We’ve got to be better overall — that’s all,” the All-Pro wideout said in response to Aikman’s assessment of Dallas’ current crop of receivers and their route running.
One would think it would all serve as added motivation for what needs to happen next, particularly in conjunction with who they’re set to play and the outcome of the previous three outings against that team, but Lamb says the latter isn’t factoring into any of this week’s prep.
“Nah, no extra motivation [because] the motivation is always there,” he said. “We need to win. Obviously, we know what kind of game it’s going to be. So, as far as motivation, that’s all we need.”
And with that, it’s full bore toward Levi’s Stadium, where both clubs are clawing against all manner of misfortune to try and turn their season back in a positive direction.
Animosity? Check.
Adversity? Check.
Desperation? Check.
Talent? Check.
Familiarity? Check.
History? Triple check.
“They know us and we know them,” said Lamb. ” I mean, we’ve seen them the last three years. Obviously, they’re very physical. We know how they’re going to approach us. We got to match their energy and come ready to play.”
And having two weeks to prepare, and to recover and learn from the ongoings of September through mid-October, could serve the Cowboys well this weekend.
That is, of course, if they get out of their own way and allow it to.