Todd ArcherESPN Staff Writer4 Minute Read
Is Dak to blame for Cowboys’ red zone struggles?
Dan Orlovsky doesn’t understand why CeeDee Lamb’s red zone targets are so low for the Cowboys.
FRISCO, Texas — Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb acknowledges the need to improve his performance in handling frustration during games.
In the recent 42-10 loss to the San Francisco 49ers, Lamb, who had four receptions for 49 yards, displayed visible frustration, at times distancing himself from his teammates, including Dak Prescott.
“Upon reflection, I realize I did not handle the situation in the best manner to achieve my desired outcome,” said Lamb. “At the end of the day, I am committed to my role on the team and strive to contribute. Moving forward, I will approach these situations differently and create a more positive environment.”
Lamb also mentioned that he had a conversation with Prescott on Monday.
“He approached me and said, ‘If you have any issues, just come talk to me. I don’t care how it appears in the media,'” Lamb shared. “Ultimately, the media will sensationalize everything. If I stand alone, it’s a problem. If I express myself to him, it’s a problem. The key is to focus on understanding each other and being on the same page. Dak and I achieved that on our first day back, leaving us with a fresh start for the week ahead.”
Prescott encourages open communication and acknowledges the frustration arising from an offense that had nine of 11 drives lasting three plays or less with him on the field, resulting in just eight first downs.
“We can be upset, but we need to find a solution, and the best way to do that is through communication,” stated Prescott. “That’s why I wanted him to approach me. Let’s have a passionate discussion on the sideline and find a solution. The last thing we want is to ignore the issue and let it fester.”
So far this season, Lamb has recorded 27 receptions for 358 yards and a touchdown. In the same period last year, when Prescott missed most of the games due to injury, he had 28 catches for 341 yards and two touchdowns. This year, Lamb has been targeted 35 times, compared to 50 targets last year when Cooper Rush started four games.
“As a competitor, my priority is winning,” expressed Lamb. “Everything I do centers around that. My teammates know this about me. It’s never personal; it’s always about the team’s success. Period.”
Coach Mike McCarthy also had a discussion with Lamb on Monday. While McCarthy wants to provide Lamb with more opportunities, he emphasizes the need to maintain a balanced offense as the playcaller.
“I’ll just say this, if he’s not frustrated about not getting the ball, then I’m frustrated that he’s not frustrated,” said McCarthy. “He’s a game-changer, and it’s understandable that he feels that way. However, in life, it’s not just about how you handle things personally but also how it affects others. There are many aspects to consider. I am fully aware of the situation, and I share in the frustration as the playcaller.”
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