FRISCO, TEXAS — The Dallas Cowboys sit at 3-3, struggling to meet the high expectations set for this year. Both the offense and defense have faltered, and key injuries have exacerbated the situation. As the season progresses, the question is clear: can the Cowboys turn things around and remain in playoff contention, or are they headed for a lost season?
Analyzing the Cowboys’ Struggles
The Cowboys’ offensive issues start with a non-existent running game. The committee approach featuring Rico Dowdle and Ezekiel Elliott hasn’t provided the spark the team needs to control the pace of games. Without a productive run game, the offense has become predictable, forcing Dak Prescott into tough situations without much support.
Adding to the woes is an offensive line that hasn’t given the Cowboys a chance to run smoothly. Once the backbone of the offense, the line has been inconsistent, struggling with injuries and subpar performances. This has hurt both the run and pass game, leaving Prescott under constant pressure and limiting the offense’s ability to sustain drives.
The passing game, which should be a strength, has also underperformed. CeeDee Lamb and Prescott have struggled to get on the same page, with communication breakdowns leading to missed opportunities. Injuries to Brandin Cooks have further hampered the offense, taking away a critical deep threat and making it harder for the Cowboys to stretch the field.
Defensively, Mike Zimmer’s unit has not lived up to expectations. Zimmer was brought in to provide toughness and structure, but injuries to stars like Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence, and Eric Kendricks have made his job much more difficult. Without their key pass rushers, the Cowboys’ defense has been unable to generate the pressure it once thrived on, leaving the secondary exposed and vulnerable to big plays. Zimmer’s defense, which was expected to be a top-tier unit, has struggled to adjust to these challenges.
Key Factors for the Cowboys’ Turnaround
- Reviving the Running Game: For the Cowboys to find offensive balance, they must get more out of their running backs. Whether that means leaning more on Dowdle or adjusting their blocking schemes, the Cowboys need to create opportunities on the ground to keep opposing defenses from teeing off on Prescott.
- Improving Offensive Line Play: The offensive line must improve. Prescott’s struggles are compounded by inconsistent protection, and the running game won’t get going unless the line can open up holes. Getting the offensive line to perform at a higher level is critical for any potential turnaround.
- Restoring Prescott and Lamb’s Chemistry: The disconnect between Prescott and Lamb is one of the Cowboys’ biggest issues. Their chemistry, once strong, has faltered this season, and getting them back on track will be crucial to reigniting the passing attack. With Brandin Cooks still recovering from injury, Lamb’s role becomes even more important.
- Mike Zimmer’s Defensive Adjustments: Zimmer will need to get creative to overcome the injuries to Parsons, Lawrence, and Kendricks. Without his top pass rushers, Zimmer must figure out how to generate pressure through scheme and find ways to tighten up the coverage in the secondary. The Cowboys’ defense can’t afford to give up big plays if they hope to stay competitive in games.
- Minimizing Mistakes: The Cowboys have repeatedly hurt themselves with penalties and turnovers in key moments. Cleaning up these errors is essential if they want to stay in the playoff hunt. With injuries hampering both sides of the ball, the Cowboys must play smarter and more disciplined football.
The Road Ahead
At 3-3, the Cowboys face a tough path forward, especially in the competitive NFC East. The Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Commanders are setting the pace, and the Cowboys will need to start winning soon if they hope to challenge for the division or secure a wild card spot.
Fixing the offense starts with better protection for Prescott and a rejuvenated running game, while the defense must find ways to survive without its stars. The next few weeks will be crucial in determining whether the Cowboys can salvage their season or continue to struggle.
