CBS Sports: After struggles, the Cowboys send a message to Rookie Guyton.

At MetLife Stadium, the Dallas Cowboys defeated the New York Giants 20–15 to end their two-game losing run, but they caused themselves some difficulty in the process. Dallas’ drives were halted by constant penalties, which made the game harder than it needed to be.

The game appeared sloppy due to a total of 11 penalties for 89 yards, some of which were committed by rookie left tackle Tyler Guyton. The former Oklahoma Sooner was obviously targeted by the Giants defense, and the rookie had difficulty. But because Guyton receives flags frequently, left guard Tyler Smith gave the rookie some guidance during the game following a challenging performance.

“I just told him, keep your head in the game,” stated Smith. “I recall, it’s amazing how similar his life is to mine from a few years back. People are planning their game plan against him since he is a first-year starting left tackle, who I believe to be the hardest position on the offensive line. I advised him to play his game and be tuned in, knowing that not all calls will go our way.

“That’s what everybody was telling him, just stay locked in, stay on the next play, keep balling, keep doing your thing.” The attack faltered and stumbled when Guyton was having trouble, but they were still able to drive the field and score 20 points. Even though it wasn’t the most visually appealing game, the Cowboys arrived at MetLife with a win, which was exactly what they wanted.

However, given Guyton’s obvious struggles in the last few games—particularly against the Giants—we anticipate that going ahead, left tackles will be singled out by defenses, making this a real trial by fire for the youngster. Fortunately, Zack Martin and Smith are there to encourage him.