The Dallas Cowboys are experiencing a tumultuous season. One moment, they face overwhelming challenges, and the next, they seem to soar. This roller-coaster dynamic was evident during their tense, last-minute victory, 20-17, against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
After the game, the Cowboys found themselves at 3-2, trailing by one game in the NFC East. Despite their evident talent and ability to compete with strong teams, they are grappling with significant issues and a growing list of injuries that could derail their progress.
Fans should prepare for a season filled with ups and downs. At this juncture, it’s uncertain whether the team is on the verge of a resurgence or heading for a steep decline.
Vacchiano: Concerns linger, particularly regarding Dak Prescott. While many view him as an elite quarterback, the current situation places immense pressure on him. With only one reliable receiver and a struggling running game, Prescott finds himself in a position where he must create plays or risk stagnation. This pressure could lead to forced throws, increasing the likelihood of turnovers.
As the season progresses, he may feel compelled to rely heavily on CeeDee Lamb, especially in critical moments. While this strategy may yield results at times, it also carries the risk of interceptions, particularly since opposing defenses are aware of this reliance.
Helman: The Cowboys’ front office decisions during the offseason indicate a heavy reliance on younger players, especially with the team’s current roster limitations. Players like Rico have stepped up but are already nearing their previous season’s carry totals. The anticipation surrounding Tolbert’s potential breakout has been building since his draft in 2022. The upcoming games will reveal if these young players can rise to the occasion, as the Cowboys have limited alternatives.
Vacchiano: The emergence of Tolbert could be a game-changer for the Cowboys. Since Amari Cooper’s departure, the team has struggled to find a second reliable receiver. Brandin Cooks, who has faced injury issues, has shown potential but lacks consistency. Tolbert, a talented player from a smaller school, might finally be in a position to make a significant impact.
3. The Cowboys’ defense managed to hold its ground without Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence, but facing the Detroit Lions will present a different challenge. Which player must step up to fill the gap?
Vacchiano: The absence of Parsons and Lawrence poses a significant challenge, especially against a team known for its powerful running game. Key players like DT Mazi Smith and LB Eric Kendricks need to elevate their performance. Smith, a first-round pick last year, has yet to meet expectations and must become a dominant force on the line.
Kendricks, who was brought in as a high-profile free agent, has yet to make a substantial impact since a strong Week 1. He needs to step up and fill the void left by Parsons.
Helman: The injury to rookie defensive end Marshawn Kneeland further complicates the situation. The Lions boast a formidable rushing attack, supported by an offensive line that excels at dominating opponents. Defensive linemen such as Mazi Smith, Chauncey Golston, and Linval Joseph, along with linebackers Eric Kendricks, DeMarvion Overshown, and Marist Liufau, must perform at their best. Any slip-ups could result in the Cowboys conceding over 200 rushing yards again.
Helman: Credit goes to the Cowboys’ coaching staff for prioritizing realistic strategies over external pressures, particularly regarding Ezekiel Elliott’s role. While Elliott remains a valuable player, his strengths now lie in pass protection and short-yardage situations rather than as a primary back. His lack of explosive runs this season highlights the need for a more defined role.
Vacchiano: For transparency, I included Elliott in my fantasy football draft, anticipating his usage due to Jerry Jones’ comments. However, Mike McCarthy’s decision to limit his role appears wise.
5. How seriously should fans take the Washington Commanders’ 4-1 start? Will the NFC East once again come down to a showdown between Dallas and Philadelphia?
Vacchiano: The Commanders are proving to be a legitimate contender. Their point differential is impressive, only trailing the Vikings and Saints. Their success is not solely due to rookie QB Jayden Daniels; their defense and running game have also been exceptional.
If they maintain a .500 record for the rest of the season, they could achieve 10 wins. They have shown they can be a threat, and overlooking them would be a mistake.
Helman: While the Commanders may not be perfect, their strengths pose challenges for the Cowboys. Their strong running game and quick-release quarterback could exploit weaknesses in the Dallas defense. Initially, this season appeared to be a two-team race, but the current standings suggest a more competitive landscape in the NFC East.