After a lackluster performance from the Dallas Cowboys on opening night – along with losing Dak Prescott – the Cowboys looked dead-in-the-water. Fortunately, this team buckled down, committed fewer mistakes and was led by strong defensive effort en route to three straight wins! At the moment, it does appear the Cowboys are clicking on all cylinders!
What has worked for them?
Defensive Play – The Dallas Cowboys defense has been heavily featured over the last few weeks and is a huge reason for the Cowboys success. They have allowed only 15.5 points per game (3rd), 308 yards total offense (7th), a turnover differential of +2 (T-6th) and registered 15 sacks (T-2nd). Additionally, they’ve allowed a total quarterback rating (QBR) of 71.2 to opposing QBs. The defense has helped will the Cowboys to victory by continuing to play at an elite level.
Reducing Penalties – Since Game 1 where the Cowboys had ten penalties, they have limited their penalties to: 5, 8 & 4 respectively and costing them less than 60 yards a game. Without making these self-inflicted errors as often, this has allowed the Cowboys to continue their momentum without sputtering.
Cooper Rush – It’s a bit early in anointing Rush QB1, he has been efficient enough to keep the Cowboys offense in each game and scoring enough points to keep the Cowboys moving in a positive direction. Rush continues making smart decisions as he’s been sacked twice over a three-game span and hasn’t throw a pick in his 89 attempts this season. Rush’s excellent game management continues showing positive marks for the Cowboys.
What needs to improve?
The main thing that will need to change for this Dallas Cowboys team is their scoring. While the defense has been excellent, the offense cannot continue relying on them bailing them out on 3-and-outs.
In the team’s win over Washington this was most evident. In the fourth quarter, after a CeeDee Lamb touchdown the Cowboys only managed three points in a quarter where the defense had a turnover on downs and an interception near the redzone.
Fortunately, the Washington offense wasn’t on point and the defense was playing lights-out. The offense must score on these opportunities moving forward as this type of production against offensive juggernauts in Rams, Philly, Detroit and Green Bay will put a strain on this Cowboys defense.
Who’s up next for the Dallas Cowboys?
Over the next seven weeks, the Cowboys have by far their toughest portion of their schedule. They play two away games against the Rams and Philly, then the Lions and Bears at home, week nine they have a bye and , finally, have another set of away games against Green Bay and Minnesota.
Optimally, I see the Cowboys going 4-2 in this stretch:
- Week 5 @Rams – Win
- Week 6 @Eagles – Loss
- Week 7 vs Lions – Win
- Week 8 vs Bears – Win
- Week 10 @Packers – Loss
- Week 11 @Vikings – Win
This would improve the Cowboys to 7-3 before their Thanksgiving matchup vs the Giants.
From the listed matchups, I’m most confident in the Cowboys winning over the Lions and Bears. With the Rams dreadful performance thus far, I’ve gained confidence in a win as well. Other than these, the other 3 games are toss-ups.
I’d love to see the Cowboys improve their production on offense and match the defense’s output. This would make them likely for a deep playoff run!
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Until next time, Go Cowboys!
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