FRISCO, Texas – The Cowboys have seen better performances than what their offensive line showed Sunday night against the Vikings.
But while improvement is definitely needed, it won't be an easy fix, especially with more injuries popping up this week across the line.
The most notable is to left guard Connor Williams, who is expected to undergo microscopic surgery on his left knee. Nearly a full year ago, Williams also missed time after undergoing the same surgery on his right knee.
That time, Xavier Su'a-Filo stepped in to start and played well in the second half of the season. Su'a-Filo said on Monday that he hasn't been told he will start this week but vows to be ready.
"I don't know, but like every single week I come in and prepare to be the starter," said Su'a-Filo, who started the last eight games of the 2018 regular season. "Last year, they were counting on me to be prepared. Mentally and physically you have to be ready. At any moment you have to be prepared. You look real silly if you're not prepared."
But that might not be the only change of the week. The Cowboys will monitor a pair of other injuries, including a back injury for right tackle La'el Collins. Also, right guard Zack Martin has an issue with his elbow. Head coach Jason Garrett said both injuries are "day-to-day" and wouldn't speculate more on either player.
The Cowboys pride themselves on being a physical, run-oriented team with Ezekiel Elliott. But against the Vikings, they rushed for just 50 total yards and never picked up a first down by rush. Near the end of the game, Zeke was stopped on two straight running plays that set up a fourth-down pass that was incomplete, spoiling a chance to take the lead in the eventual 28-24 loss.
"We have a standard in the offensive line room," Su'a-Filo said. "When we don't play up to that, it's frustrating for everyone."
