Much is said about the accomplishments of many elements of the Cowboys defense that have been wreaking havoc over the weeks. The first of them is undoubtedly Trevon Diggs. Who at the rate he is going could easily end up with double digits on interceptions if they put their mind to it. On the other hand, we have rookie Micah Parsons, who is an untamed beast on the field of play and wherever they put him, he has done a terrific performance. But few remember the defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa, who has not only had an above-average performance so far this season. Rather, it was one of the most important elements in stopping the Eagles’ offense on Monday night.
The rookie is part of the pile of defensive picks in the 2021 Draft, and although it was not among the plans to start as soon, circumstances changed. Neville Gallimore’s elbow injury in the second preseason game against the Cardinals opened the door for Osa to start against Tampa Bay. And so it has remained ever since.
“In terms of guys getting injured and having to step up, it helped a lot,” said the defensive tackle. “Having the opportunity to go against the first team and get more playing time and experience, I think that is helping my development.”
#Cowboys rookie DL Osa Odighizuwa – 4 QB Pressures, 2 Sacks last night vs PHI… So damn quick upfield!
And lining up all over the place! Last night alone:
19 Snaps – DT
10 Snaps – DE
4 Snaps – NT…definitely didn’t see that coming! https://t.co/AkgoKkpWxN
— Ben Fennell (@BenFennell_NFL) September 28, 2021
Much of this could be noticed without problems in week 3 against the Philadelphia Eagles. Odighizuwa would end the day with four combined tackles and 1.5 sacks by Marshal. As if that were not enough, we must add his four pressures to the QB.
Another interesting aspect of Osa’s performance is his great handling on practically the entire defensive line. His versatility could be seen to a great extent in the game against the Eagles. With a total of 33 snaps, the player served as defensive tackle 19 times. Another ten as defensive end and another four snaps as nose tackle.
Osa Odighizuwa (@Osagoeshard) plays run first, then rushes the passer. He snakes his outside hand through & works a chop/rip for the sack. Disciplined, technical & dangerous! #passrush #cowboys @BloggingTheBoys pic.twitter.com/WnSLRxO4p9
— DLineVids (@dlinevids1) September 28, 2021
With just the short time he has in the organization, the rookie is showing his great ability in the game. Especially when putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks and on rushing defense. This is something that has greatly pleased the organization, especially its head coach.
“You can see his execution of the responsibilities in the plan to pressure the quarterback with some of the things that he has done and managing some adjustments,” McCarthy said. “It looks very comfortable there. I think clearly when he was promoted to starter at the end of training camp, he has taken advantage of every opportunity that has been given him. “
What is clear is that Osa is a level element in the western defensive line and with what he has been showing in these games, it is likely that his production will improve much more as the season progresses. The defensive tackle is one of those great examples when the rookie has to get it right and there are no complaints whatsoever. When Gallimore can return, it will be a fun matchup to watch for the starting title. Since the rookie is getting a lot of recognition despite not being as famous as other defensive elements in the group.
Osa’s new test will be against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday at noon. Where he will have to use his versatility and skills to stop and pressure Marshal Sam Darnold as much as possible. We’ll see what happens, but the defense knows they have to come out and show their face. And among them, there is Osa Odiguizuwa, who already knows what she is capable of.
