Why Marist Liufau Can Be An Unsung Hero For the Cowboys

The Cowboys kicked off their preseason in Los Angeles, California, as they took on the Rams at SoFi Stadium. The game did not turn out the way the Cowboys had hoped, as they lost 31-21. It was a poor showing on both sides of the ball early on, but as the game progressed, players like Joe Milton were able to ease into playing live-action football games again. One player who did not miss a beat from last year was second-year linebacker Marist Liufau, who was everywhere on the field for the Cowboys. 

Liufau may have only played until the first half ended, but that was all he needed to make his mark on the defensive side for Dallas. It started early, as he would make the first tackle of the game on the Rams' very first kickoff return. Then, right after he would get a tackle on the first run of the game for the Rams, only allowing two yards on the carry. Despite only recording one solo tackle on the stat sheet and two assisted tackles, Liufau's speed to the ball and play recognition were notable all throughout the entire game he had. It seemed as if he was making every tackle on the field, which gives Dallas hope at the linebacker position, which is still to be determined. 

Liufau has a serious chance to be a major key piece on the defense for the Cowboys this season under new defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus. The linebacker group, while it has a lot of players like Kenneth Murray and Jack Sanborn, does not have a defined starting core yet. With Liufau displaying strong performances in the preseason and building off of a solid rookie season last year, he has a strong chance to become a starter this season. It will be tough for him to win over Eberflus, as he was not selected by him. If Liufau can continue doing what he has been doing, there is no doubt he can become an underrated piece of this Cowboys defense that is looking to show what they can do this season.