The Dallas Cowboys are focusing on health as they aim for an improbable rally to playoff contention, even though they must do so without star quarterback Dak Prescott. His season-ending surgery for a torn hamstring leaves the team in a challenging position, but the mini-bye plus an extra day could provide crucial recovery time.
After a Thanksgiving Day victory against the New York Giants, where they won 27-20, the Cowboys (5-7) are riding a wave of renewed optimism following two consecutive wins, breaking free from a tough five-game losing streak.
Coach Mike McCarthy emphasized the importance of this rest period, stating, “If you just look at what we’ve been dealing with, rest and recovery will really help us.” He encourages his players to recharge and prepare for the challenges ahead.
With Prescott sidelined, the offensive reins are now in the hands of Cooper Rush, who has successfully led the team to victory in the last two games despite the absence of All-Pro right guard Zack Martin, who is recovering from shoulder and ankle injuries.
A significant concern for the Cowboys is the status of 2023 All-Pro receiver CeeDee Lamb, who suffered a shoulder injury that kept him out of the second half against the Giants. Owner Jerry Jones expressed hope that the additional time off will allow Lamb to return to the field.
On the defensive side, cornerback Trevon Diggs, a 2021 All-Pro, has missed two games due to groin and knee injuries. He and fellow starter DaRon Bland, who made headlines this season with five interception returns for touchdowns, have yet to play together due to injuries that have plagued them both.
If the Dallas defense can achieve a near-complete recovery, they will be well-prepared to face Cincinnati’s Joe Burrow, who leads the NFL’s top passing offense.
“Hopefully we’re fully loaded, and I know they’re going to be fully loaded,” linebacker Micah Parsons said, expressing excitement for the upcoming matchup.
What’s working
DeMarvion Overshown’s impressive 23-yard interception return for a touchdown has been a game-changer, helping the Cowboys secure a plus-2 turnover margin for the second consecutive game, a stark contrast to their previous minus-11 record. Historically, the Cowboys have thrived with a strong turnover margin, achieving at least plus-10 in their last three 12-5 seasons.
Since Parsons’ return, the Cowboys have averaged nearly eight quarterback hits per game, a significant increase from just over five in the games he missed. His presence has clearly bolstered the defensive line.
The Cowboys matched their season high with six sacks against New York’s Drew Lock, a performance that mirrored their strong start against Cleveland’s Deshaun Watson. Since returning, Parsons has contributed 5.5 sacks to the team’s tally.
Coach McCarthy noted, “We’re a better football team, a better defense, when Micah is on the field,” highlighting the impact of Parsons’ return to the lineup.
What needs help
Despite their recent success, the Cowboys struggle with a low touchdown percentage in the red zone, currently ranking second-worst in the league. In their game against the Giants, they had to settle for field goals on their first two drives, which put them at a 7-6 disadvantage early on. A fumble by Rush was overturned after a replay review, which prevented them from going 0 for 3 in the red zone.
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Running back Rico Dowdle shone with his first career 100-yard game, racking up 112 yards and a touchdown on 22 carries. His impressive 22-yard run marked the first time a Dallas running back has broken 20 yards this season, and his 4-yard touchdown helped secure a 27-10 lead in the third quarter.
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