Sam Williams, it looks as if Dallas might be setting you “free”. Please don’t take that the wrong way, however, as Williams has proven his worth in a new way for Dallas. The Dallas Cowboys defeated the Los Angeles Rams 43-20 in another classical rout. While multiple stars flew around the field, one’s quiet yet massively impactful performance might have just let him off Dan Quinn’s leash.
[cta id=4013 type=cta]
Sam Williams Finds New Fold in Special Teams One Week After Tweeting “Free Me”
Putting The Special in Special Teams
Take a good look around, because the view from the top is pretty spectacular. Dallas’ special teams play has surpassed all expectations very quickly. The special teamers shone brightly against the Rams, with a long punt return and a blocked punt Safety. Sam Williams’ lack of production might end after his massive play to extend Dallas’ lead. Williams came nearly unblocked to put his hands on the ball and block the Ethan Evans punt. It was a critical play that sprung a Kavontae Turpin 63-yard return. Whether anybody knew it at the moment or not, Williams completely flipped the script and gave Dallas bundles of momentum.
Let’s not forget where Williams was about a week ago, though. Whether his tweet meant “free me” literally or something like “give me more playing time”, he may have forced Dallas’ hand. There should be far more special teams snaps for Williams, as his long arms and strength make him a prime defender. Sam Williams finished the day with one blocked punt and two tackles. The numbers don’t mean everything, as Williams’s undeniable special teams play was hardly even a recorded stat. His play sprung the Dallas Cowboys’ first Safety of the season, adding a new dimension to the score. Don’t be shocked to see more Sam Williams snaps on special teams.
Right-Hand Wingman
Dallas was never going to let go of Williams. Let’s be honest with ourselves, it would have taken a virtual king’s ransom to get Dallas to deal him to another team. DeMarcus Lawrence remains one spot above Williams on the depth chart, and that has been part of the Cowboys run-stuffing problem. However high of a level Lawrence is playing, he must hit the sideline more for Sam Williams to return to his 2022 form.
This isn’t a dig at Lawrence, but his run-stop abilities slacked down badly against the Rams. Dallas allowed 92 rushing yards on the day, and Lawrence had a hand in that. Darrell Henderson left Lawrence looking silly on one play after a crisp cutback. Lawrence’s pace still leaves him at Pro Bowl level, but Dallas isn’t out of the woods just yet. Williams remains slightly unproven in the run game, both slamming RBs to the ground and whiffing tackles. This isn’t a horrible problem, as Sam Williams and DeMarcus Lawrence can teach each other a lot.
Sam Williams has much time left in the season to pad his stats back to 2022 form. He might have to see some time on the bench, but it’s due to Dallas’ good problem. With the Pro-Bowl level emergence from Demarcus Lawrence, he and Williams could serve as each other’s wingmen. Williams’ numbers should continue to increase after his heady special teams play and DeMarcus Lawrence’s bad day.
Universal Responsible Gambling Disclaimer:
Ages 21+. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Main Photo Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
