Why the Cowboys are making this offensive change before Patriots game

The Dallas Cowboys fear the New England Patriots already obtained vital intel before their matchup on Sunday, spurring a notable offensive change. 

Patriots running back Ezekiel Elliott and backup quarterback Will Grier are former Cowboys who could explain the meaning of offensive hand signals. This will help Patriots head coach Bill Belichick design a better game plan. Consequently, Cowboys offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer will modify them. 

"We know Will knows where a lot of the bones are buried," Schottenheimer said Tuesday, per ESPN's Todd Archer. "We know Zeke does as well; I'm sure [Grier] is definitely being interrogated." 

On the surface, it appears Schottenheimer is overly paranoid, yet it's a legitimate concern. Both players possess intimate knowledge of the Dallas offense. Elliott starred for the club from 2016-22, and Grier was with the Cowboys in 2021 and 2022.

Plus, don't put it past Belichick and the Patriots to try to gain an edge. In 2007, the NFL disciplined New England after it taped opposing coaches' hand signals during games.

Schottenheimer making a slight change is the right move. The Cowboys offense must regain mojo after it sputtered in a shocking 28-16 loss to the Cardinals. Against Arizona, Dallas went 1-for-5 in the red zone, and quarterback Dak Prescott threw a game-sealing interception. 

The New England defense, fifth in the NFL in yards allowed, already presents a challenging matchup. Also, Dallas has lost five of its last six games against New England since Belichick became Patriots HC in 2000, per StatMuse.

Per ESPN Analytics, the Cowboys hold a 68.6% chance to win. Nonetheless, underestimating a six-time Super Bowl champion is a mistake. So, Dallas should intensify its preparation.