In a much-needed turn of events, the Dallas Cowboys ended their five-game losing streak, defeating the Washington Commanders in Week 12. With this victory, the Cowboys improved their record to 4-7. The win, which marks a significant turning point for the team, comes amidst a season fraught with injuries and setbacks.
Overcoming Challenges
Under the guidance of head coach Mike McCarthy, the Cowboys have had to navigate the treacherous waters of the current NFL season, missing key players on both their offensive and defensive lines. In a candid reflection of the season's trials, McCarthy noted, “As a staff, this is very challenging. As we've talked as a staff, we'll be better coaches because of this experience. I believe that. I've experienced it in the past. That's what this league's about. It's not about players getting injured. It's really when and who, the timing of it, getting the young guys ready to play as fast as possible.”
The Cowboys’ struggles have been palpable, given the absence of their franchise quarterback and missing elements that have cost them on both sides of the football. Despite these hurdles, the Cowboys demonstrated resilience, a quality underscored by Jourdan Lewis' confidence: “It feels like that because we know what we're doing. We know what we're doing, and guys are playing hard. We're executing the right way from all 11 of us on the field.”
Cooper Rush Steps Up
The victory against Washington was fueled by a stellar performance from quarterback Cooper Rush. Stepping up in the absence of key players, Rush completed 24 of his 32 passes, amassing 247 yards and delivering two touchdowns, achieving career highs in both completion percentage (75%) and passer rating (117.6). This performance provided a morale boost, fostering belief within the ranks that the team can indeed perform at a high level and secure victories.
Brandin Cooks’ return from injured reserve added dynamism to the offense, contributing significantly to Dallas' rejuvenated play. Plus, the potential return of powerhouse defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence is sure to fortify the Cowboys’ defensive efforts further.
The Road Ahead
While the road ahead remains challenging, the Cowboys face opponents with a combined win percentage of .448, presenting an opportunity to capitalize on what is ranked as the eighth-easiest remaining schedule in the NFL according to Tankathon. Despite a slim 1.4% chance of making the postseason, as projected by the SportsLine simulation model, hope remains. Since 1990, seven teams have defied the odds by making the playoffs after starting with a 4-7 record. In fact, the 2023 Buccaneers achieved the same feat, providing a blueprint for the Cowboys’ desired path forward.
Jourdan Lewis encapsulated the team’s renewed optimism, saying, “That's the plan. As a football player, as a competitor, we want to win games. We saw we were playing good ball the last few weeks. Everything as a team, it wasn't coming together. It came together in a better way last week, and I feel like that gave us the belief to say, 'We all can play good ball and win out.'”
As the Cowboys gear up for the remainder of the season, the focus will be on harnessing this momentum to turn the tide. With pivotal players gradually returning and the team adjusting to their revised roles, there remains a flicker of hope on the horizon in Dallas. The embattled team aims to defy the odds, armed with the hard-earned lessons of resilience and teamwork that this season has demanded.