The Dallas Cowboys have had a roller-coaster start to their 2024 season, marked by both crucial wins and tough losses. Their record now stands at 2-2, reflecting the roller-coaster nature of their performance.
Early Season Struggles
The season began with back-to-back home defeats, first a crushing 44-19 loss to the New Orleans Saints followed by a closer 28-25 loss to the Baltimore Ravens. These initial setbacks raised questions about the team's consistency and resilience.
However, the Cowboys showed their determination and capacity for recovery with a victory against the New York Giants on "Thursday Night Football," securing a 20-15 win. This victory was vital for the team’s morale and standings.
Quarterback Insights
Dak Prescott played a pivotal role in the victory, adding to his impressive record against the Giants. "We don't need any Supermans at all. We just need 11 guys playing together. Right now, it's just not in unison," said Micah Parsons, emphasizing the importance of teamwork as Prescott celebrated his 13th consecutive win against the Giants. This win streak ties the second-longest winning streak by a quarterback against a single opponent since at least 1950.
During the game, Prescott was efficient and effective, throwing for 221 yards and completing 22 of his 21 passes. His accurate passing was highlighted by a 15-yard touchdown pass to running back Rico Dowdle and a spectacular 55-yard catch-and-run touchdown to wide receiver CeeDee Lamb.
Kicker’s Remarkable Feat
Brandon Aubrey also made significant contributions, showcasing his kicking prowess with successful field goals from 60 and 40 yards. However, he missed a 51-yard attempt, ending his perfect streak from 50-plus yards. Aubrey is now 16 of 17 from those distances but still holds the record for the longest consecutive streak of field goals of 50 or more yards in NFL history.
Defensive Struggles and Successes
The Cowboys’ defense has been a point of concern and achievement in equal measure. In Week 3, the defense allowed a staggering 274 rushing yards to the Baltimore Ravens. But, showing their ability to adapt and improve, they limited the Giants to just 26 rushing yards on 24 carries in their latest outing. Defensive tackle Mazi Smith played a crucial part in stifling the Giants' run game.
Unfortunately, the win against the Giants also came with injuries to key defensive players. Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence were both injured during the second half. Lawrence's foot injury sidelined him after the third quarter, while Parsons, despite a negative X-ray, must monitor his recovery. On his condition, Parsons reassured fans, "I'll be good."
Other injuries include DaRon Bland, who is grappling with a stress fracture in his foot, and Caelen Carson, who sustained a shoulder injury.
Offensive Woes
The Cowboys’ offense, while effective in passing, has struggled in the running game, averaging just 75.3 rushing yards per game, the third-worst in the NFL this season. Their 3.5 yards per carry also ranks as the fourth-worst in the league. The longest rush of the season by a Cowboys player is a mere 12 yards, achieved by CeeDee Lamb.
Game Highlights
Amani Oruwariye played a crucial role in sealing the win against the Giants by intercepting a pass with just 15 seconds left on the clock. This critical play ensured the Cowboys' victory and prevented any last-minute surprises.
Looking at the season ahead, DeMarcus Lawrence calls for accountability and unity, "Be credible, f---ing accountable every single play... Get out of playing little league football." His words emphasize the need for the team to elevate its level of play and operate as a cohesive unit to find continued success in upcoming matches.
The Cowboys are set to face the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Detroit Lions in their next matchups, which will be crucial in determining their trajectory for the season. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the team can build on their recent success or if their inconsistencies will continue to be a hurdle.