The Dallas Cowboys have stumbled mightily through the early part of the season, now sitting at a disappointing 3-3 after a crushing 47-6 defeat to the Detroit Lions last Sunday.
With their offense struggling to gain traction, legendary Cowboys quarterback Troy Aikman has voiced serious concerns, particularly about the team’s lackluster route running.
During a recent appearance on 1310 The Ticket in Dallas, Aikman didn’t hold back when discussing the Cowboys’ wide receivers, singling out star receiver CeeDee Lamb in particular.
Aikman, who led the Cowboys to three Super Bowl titles during his 12 seasons with the team, expressed frustration with the effort and execution he’s seen on the field.
“I think the routes are terrible,” Aikman said. “I think they run terrible routes, and I’ve thought that beyond this year. I think CeeDee has got to improve in his route running. As a quarterback, if you’re not certain where guys are going to be consistently, it’s hard to play the position. That’s what I see.”
CeeDee Lamb managed 89 yards on seven receptions during the blowout loss to Detroit, while Dak Prescott threw two costly interceptions.
According to Aikman, the inconsistency in route execution is a significant issue, with receivers often lacking the urgency needed to get open – especially when they aren’t expecting the ball.
“I see guys lazy coming off the line of scrimmage. Sometimes they run. Usually if they do, it’s because they’re anticipating they’re going to get the football on that play, but if they’re not, they don’t. And it all ties together. I’m not impressed with that part of it.”
Aikman acknowledged that his perspective, as a former quarterback watching from the outside, may differ from that of current Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. However, he was clear that there is plenty of room for improvement if Dallas wants to succeed offensively.
“It’s hard to play the [quarterback] position if you’re not certain how guys are going to run routes or where they’re going to be. And I’m not speaking for Dak … Dak may say, ‘Hey, I think [their routes] are amazing.’ But as a former quarterback watching it, it’s got to get a lot better,” Aikman added.
With the Cowboys’ season at a critical juncture, Aikman’s blunt comments could serve as a wake-up call for Lamb, Prescott, and the rest of the receiving corps as they strive to turn things around and stay competitive in the NFC East.
What are your thoughts on Aikman’s comments?
Do you think Lamb has become a bit of a problem for Dallas? … Or do you put more of the blame on Prescott?
Will the Cowboys be able to turn things around and get back on track before it’s too late???