The Dallas Cowboys have experienced a topsy-turvy start to their 2024 season, oscillating between significant victories and disappointing losses that have fans on the edge of their seats. A particularly challenging stretch saw them losing consecutive home games in the first three weeks against the New Orleans Saints (44-19) and the Baltimore Ravens (28-25). However, the Cowboys managed to arrest that slide with a hard-fought win against the New York Giants on "Thursday Night Football," edging the game 20-15.
Dak Prescott's Dominance Over Giants Continues
With this win, the Cowboys' record now stands at an even 2-2. Quarterback Dak Prescott extended his remarkable winning streak against the Giants to 13 games, tying the second-longest run by a quarterback versus a single opponent since at least 1950. Prescott was efficient throughout the game, throwing for 221 yards and completing 22 of his 21 passes. Demonstrating his pinpoint accuracy and leadership, Prescott connected with running back Rico Dowdle for a 15-yard touchdown and later delivered a brilliant 55-yard catch-and-run touchdown to wide receiver CeeDee Lamb.
Kicker Aubrey Stands Out
Brandon Aubrey also made an impression, nailing field goals from 60 and 40 yards. Though he missed a 51-yard attempt, thereby ending his perfect streak from 50-plus yards, Aubrey remains an exceptional asset, having made 16 of 17 from such distances. Notably, he holds the longest consecutive streak of field goals of 50 or more yards in NFL history.
Defensive Challenges and Triumphs
The Cowboys' defense has seen varying degrees of success. In Week 3, they allowed a worrying 274 rushing yards against the Baltimore Ravens. However, they regrouped impressively against the Giants, conceding only 26 rushing yards on 24 carries. Defensive tackle Mazi Smith was instrumental in stifling the Giants' run game, showcasing his strength and technique. Despite injuries to crucial players like Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence, the unit held firm. Parsons, whose X-ray results were thankfully negative, assured fans, "I'll be good." Lawrence, who sustained a foot injury that sidelined him after the third quarter, was vocal about the team's need for improvement. "Be credible, f---ing accountable every single play," Lawrence emphasized.
Injuries Pile Up
Injuries continue to be a significant concern for the Cowboys. Defensive assets like DaRon Bland, who is dealing with a stress fracture in his foot, and Caelen Carson, suffering from a shoulder injury, are among those on the list. The team was handed another setback when Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence both sustained injuries during the latter stages of the game against the Giants. Parsons' reassurances that his X-ray results were negative bring some relief, yet the defensive lineup remains thinned by these absences.
Struggles in the Run Game
Offensively, the Cowboys' ground game has been underwhelming. They are averaging just 75.3 rushing yards per game, ranking third-worst in the NFL this season. Their average of 3.5 yards per carry is the fourth-worst in the league. Although CeeDee Lamb holds the Cowboys' longest rush of the season at 12 yards, this statistic underscores the difficulties the team faces in establishing an effective rushing attack. Reflecting on the team's performance, Micah Parsons remarked, "We don't need any Supermans at all. We just need 11 guys playing together. Right now, it's just not in unison."
Looking Forward
Embroiled in the mixed fortunes of their season thus far, the Dallas Cowboys have crucial upcoming matchups against the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Detroit Lions. Consistency will be the key if they are to capitalize on the potential that has been evident in flashes. As the team navigates through the injuries and works on ironing out their inconsistencies, Cowboys Nation will be hopeful that this season's roller-coaster ride will smooth out into a series of victories.