After three consecutive 12-win seasons, the Dallas Cowboys returned to the NFC East basement, 7-10, after a dreadful 2024 display. They had the sixth-worst rushing attack in the league, with just one player boasting over 250 rushing yards. Dallas only won two games by more than 14 points, and its several blowout losses highlighted its inferiority to the playoff contenders.
Luckily, help is on the way. In early February, the Cowboys signed former Kansas State offensive coordinator Conor Riley.
"If you are unfamiliar with Klayton Adams's work in Arizona/Indianapolis or are not privy to Conor Riley's success at Kansas State, I would advise you to check it out," Cowboys fanatic Dan Rogers tweeted. "These two are going to reshape the Cowboys' offensive line."
If you are unfamiliar with Klayton Adams's work in Arizona/Indianapolis or are not privy to Conor Riley's success at Kansas State, I would advise you to check it out.
— Dan Rogers (@DannyPhantom24) May 19, 2025
These two are going to reshape the Cowboys' offensive line. pic.twitter.com/FrAIOSFSXc
Riley headlined a Kansas State offense that boasted the second-best rushing attack in the conference. Former Wildcats star DJ Giddens' season eventually landed him a spot on the Indianapolis Colts, while quarterback Avery Johnson exploded in the run game with his dual-threat play style.
Conor was one of the most impactful players in the NCAA, and Klayton offers strong insights into the ground game. During his time in Arizona, he gained recognition for how effectively he utilized his offensive line in the running attack.
— Bruno (@MancinasBruno) May 19, 2025
In Dallas, Riley will have options like Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders, with the rushing capability of quarterback Dak Prescott. They lost their primary rusher Rico Dowdle to the Carolina Panthers, but a more balanced attack should spread the ball more throughout the rushing unit.
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Jayden Armant is a graduate of the Howard University School of Communications and a contributor to Kansas State Wildcats on SI. He can be reached at jaydenshome14@gmail.com or follow him on Twitter @ jaydenarmant.
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