ARLINGTON, Texas – The Dallas Cowboys have faced a tough season, officially missing out on the playoffs. It’s a disappointing reality: no division title, no wild card opportunity, and no postseason games once again.
It’s easy to feel detached from the remaining games. If playoffs are your only interest, this might not be the column for you. But for those sticking around, there’s still value in discussing the here and now.
As I watched Sunday’s game, where Justin Herbert easily navigated the Cowboys’ defense, it raised an important question: how can this defense improve? It’s clear something needs fixing. But saying “all of it” doesn’t help us prioritize what’s urgent.
On Sunday, the Chargers moved the ball effortlessly. The Cowboys’ defense lacks the essential traits of a competent unit. They’re not just bending but breaking under pressure. Instead of a typical bend-but-don’t-break approach that limits big plays, the Cowboys’ defense fails to hold their ground, leading to long drives and points scored against them. This not only drains the defense but keeps the high-performing offense sidelined.
This season, a significant contributor to the struggles lies with the pass rush. The Cowboys traded away their top player, a leading pass-rusher. Now, they sit at 22nd in sacks, a stark drop from their previous top rankings when Micah Parsons was active. This shift has indeed taken its toll.
Despite the team saying they could still generate a rush without a superstar on the field, the reality has shown otherwise. The linebackers and secondary faced their share of injuries, with players like Trevon Diggs and Malik Hooker missing significant time. Less recognizable names like Trikweze Bridges stepped up, but it wasn’t enough.
Looking ahead, there are foundations to build on. Players such as Quinnen Williams and Osa Odighizuwa have solid contracts, offering a starting point for improvement. However, addressing the defensive end position remains critical. While Donovan Ezeiruaku might return, relying solely on him won’t suffice.
Moving into the next season, the Cowboys need to consider their coaching strategies. A change in coordinators might bring a fresh perspective, focusing on finding pass rushers who can pressure the quarterback without extra blitzing.
Until then, this 2025 version of the Cowboys will continue to both bend and break under pressure. With strategic adjustments, perhaps the future can look brighter.
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