Revitalized Cowboys Snap Losing Streak
The Dallas Cowboys breathed a sigh of relief as they ended a daunting five-game losing streak with a spirited victory against the Washington Commanders in Week 12. This win nudged their record to 4-7, offering a glint of hope in what has been a challenging season.
The Cowboys' recent struggles can largely be attributed to the absence of key players, including their esteemed franchise quarterback and integral components of both the offensive and defensive lines. These absences left the Cowboys floundering with a 3-7 record, but a change in fortunes has been sparked by the return of vital players such as Brandin Cooks, who came back from injured reserve. DeMarcus Lawrence is also anticipated to rejoin the lineup shortly, further bolstering the team's prospects.
Under the stewardship of head coach Mike McCarthy, the Cowboys have had to navigate these difficult waters. McCarthy reflects candidly on the experience: “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.” His perspective underscores the resilience required in the face of adversity in the NFL, where the timing of injuries can often dictate the fate of a season.
Cooper Rush Shines
In the recent triumph over Washington, quarterback Cooper Rush delivered an exceptional performance, completing 24 of 32 passes for 247 yards and two touchdowns. This outing was highlighted by career-high achievements in both completion percentage, at a remarkable 75%, and a passer rating of 117.6. Rush's emergence as a reliable playmaker is a promising development for the Cowboys, who have been searching for consistency in their offensive efforts.
Jourdan Lewis, a key player for Dallas, expressed renewed confidence in the team’s dynamics, stating, “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. So it feels good.” His comments suggest a unified team that is rediscovering its rhythm and potential on the field.
Postseason Possibilities
Despite the challenges they’ve faced, the Cowboys’ aspirations for the postseason remain faintly alive. According to the SportsLine simulation model, their chances of making the playoffs stand at just 1.4%. Yet, with a remaining schedule featuring opponents with a combined win percentage of .448, Dallas possesses the eighth-easiest remaining schedule in the NFL, as per Tankathon. This factor provides a sliver of hope for rallying a late-season surge.
Historically, the odds are not entirely against them. Since 1990, seven teams have managed to defy the odds and reach the postseason after starting the season with a 4-7 record. The 2023 Buccaneers are a recent example, illustrating that dramatic turnarounds are indeed possible in the NFL.
Within the locker room, there is a shared belief that the tide can yet turn. “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,'” remarked Lewis.
As the Cowboys look to build on their Week 12 success, the resilience and unity they exhibit could very well shape the rest of their season. With player comebacks reigniting the squad, and a favorable schedule lying ahead, Dallas fans will hope their team can emulate the grit and determination required to keep postseason dreams alive.