I know, I know, you’re thinking – “this guy again with his players of the week despite the team losing and losing in a cluncker at Buffalo to fall to 4-11. THERE ARE NO PLAYERS OF THE WEEK!”
However, there is no longer a divide in Cowboys Nation between those who wanted this team to still make the playoffs and those who wanted the draft pick. Going into this game, we knew playoff chances were dead, and thus it basically turned into a four quarter scouting exercise for 2016.
What’s the purpose of scouting without reviewing it afterwards and finding players that stood out? With that, here is another edition of players of the week!
Offensive Player of the Week: Brice Butler WR
WIth Kellen Moore making his first career NFL start, Brice Butler finally got his chance to shine. He did just that, taking advantage of the Cowboys being without Dez Bryant to make the most of a well-deserved opprotunity.
Butler’s four receptions for 74 yards confirmed what Cowboys fans have been saying all season long, in that Butler deserves a chance at the #2 WR position ahead of Terrance Williams.
Williams was expected to have a breakout year, but instead has been mostly invisible. I know it doesn’t help that he has not had Tony Romo to throw him the ball, but tell that to Kellen Moore and Brice Butler.
Butler’s speed and catch radius make him a perfect reciever to put across from a healthy Dez Bryant next season upon the return of Romo. Safeties will have to respect the over-the-top speed of both wideouts, which should greatly open things up underneath for playmaker Cole Beasley and tight end Jason Witten.
Get excited for next season, Cowboys fans, because I truly think that Tony Romo and Brice Butler could have a special connection.
Defensive Player of the Week: Deji Olatoye CB
For the second straight week, a Dallas Cowboys defensive back that was not on the roster to start the season (nor on anyone’s radar) recorded an interception. Deji Olatoye made the most of his playing time, ending a long Bills drive before the end of the first half with an interception in the end zone.
Olatoye could be the team’s slot corner replacement for the released Tyler Patmon next season, and he made a case for it in this game.
Who else stood out for the Cowboys in week 16? Let me know! Leave a comment below, or send a tweet to @ShoreSportsNJ.
Definitely thought Darren McFadden played well. I know he stopped at just 99 yards on the day, but I look his individual effort as more like 120 yards on the day; can't forget the 20-ish yard run he had that was called back due to Luck Whitehead holding. The hold didn't help the run that I could see. Small praise only, but 100 yards is all we need from the running back spot normally, and he did his job.
Definitely VERY excited to see what McFadden can do with Romo under center next season.