The Dallas Cowboys' defence finally delivered a statement performance in their dominant 44-22 victory over the Washington Commanders in Week 7.
After entering the game ranked last in the NFL in total yards allowed, the much-maligned unit put together its best collective effort of the season, fueled by a distinct shift in defensive strategy.
The success of the week came down to a simple formula: increased aggression, more man-to-man coverage, and game-changing turnovers.
The significant improvement has alleviated immediate pressure on Defensive Coordinator Matt Eberflus and provided proof that this talented unit can, at times, match the production of the top-ranked Cowboys offence.
The changes: More blitzing and less zone coverage
For the first time this season, the Cowboys deviated from their conservative, zone-heavy scheme, opting for a more aggressive, attacking front.
Increased Blitzing
The most visible change was the increased use of the blitz, which resulted in four sacks and directly led to a massive turning point: a third-quarter blitz by linebacker Shemar James caused a sack-fumble that injured Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels.
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Man Coverage
The secondary, which had previously struggled in zone coverage, mixed in more man coverage looks.
This change put cornerbacks in better positions and helped limit the Commanders to a season-low 16 completions.
The increased aggression immediately paid off, creating the momentum the unit had lacked all season.
The defence secured two crucial turnovers, including a spectacular pick-six by cornerback DaRon Bland, who now has six interceptions in his career.
Dallas Cowboys incremental improvements
The Cowboys’ defensive performance was by no means perfect, they still conceded 136 rushing yards, but the effort represented a massive step forward from the unit that had been on pace to surrender a franchise record in yardage.
The victory confirmed the theory that the Cowboys do not necessarily need a historic, top-five defence to win.
They simply need a unit capable of complementary football: one that can create timely turnovers and secure key stops.
With Dak Prescott and the offence playing at an elite level, the message from the organization is clear: the defence just needs to be "pretty good at times" to ensure the team is a genuine contender.
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