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Cowboys vs. 49ers: How San Francisco’s Defense Can Slow Down QB Dak Prescott

By Peter Panacy

Sep 25, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) calls a play in the second quarter against the Chicago Bears at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 25, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) calls a play in the second quarter against the Chicago Bears at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 7, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; San Francisco 49ers strong safety Jimmie Ward (25) breaks up a pass intended for Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Cole Beasley (11) at AT&T Stadium. San Francisco beat Dallas 28-17. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 7, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; San Francisco 49ers strong safety Jimmie Ward (25) breaks up a pass intended for Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Cole Beasley (11) at AT&T Stadium. San Francisco beat Dallas 28-17. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /

Blanket Coverage on Cowboys Receiving Targets

Quarterback Dak Prescott has three favored targets — tight end Jason Witten (20 targets) and wide receivers Dez Bryant (23 targets) and Cole Beasley (25 targets).

Beasley is an interesting commodity to watch here. The 5-foot-8 slot receiver leads the team with 213 receiving yards, which creates a matchup question for San Francisco’s defense.

Defensive back Jimmie Ward would probably be an ideal candidate to cover Beasley out of the slot. But Ward is dealing with a quad injury and is listed as questionable for Sunday’s contest. Cornerback Chris Davis could be asked to step up against Beasley, but the Niners also like using rookie corners in the slot.

So this means Rashard Robinson, who hasn’t been tested much this season.

Aug 20, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; San Francisco 49ers cornerback Rashard Robinson (33) prior to the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 20, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; San Francisco 49ers cornerback Rashard Robinson (33) prior to the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /

San Francisco secondary has held up particularly well in coverage this season. Minus a few gaffes in Seattle and Carolina, of course. Only veteran corner Tramaine Brock (53.1) grades out with a mark lower than 70, according to Pro Football Focus‘ evaluation of 49ers sub packages.

Taking away Prescott’s receiving targets is essential, which will necessitate his need to stay in the pocket more.

And that’s where things get interesting. Challenging too.