The Dallas Cowboys are reportedly looking to implement significant defensive adjustments as they head into their week eight matchup at home against the Arizona Cardinals (2-5), as Yahoo Sports reported. This comes after the Cowboys secured a much-needed road victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, despite the team's defensive unit still facing several challenges.
Christian Parker, a Cowboys coach, spoke to the media recently, hinting at potential changes forthcoming for the defensive scheme. Through seven weeks of the current season, the Cowboys have shown a static approach in two key areas: their blitzing and post-snap safety rotations. According to Sumer Sports, the team’s blitz rate stands at 22.8%, placing them 28th in the NFL, while their safety rotation rate is 19th. Notably, the team refrained from increasing pressure against two backup quarterbacks in the last three games, including a mere 10.53% blitz rate against Eagles backup Tanner McKee.
Further bolstering the team, defensive tackle Jonathan Bullard has returned to the practice field after missing the last four games due to a calf injury. The Cowboys initiated a 21-day practice window for Bullard on Thursday, following his eligibility to return from injured reserve. Bullard sustained his calf injury in a loss to the Baltimore Ravens on September 27 and has now missed the required four games while on IR. Bullard indicated he felt prepared for his return, telling Yahoo Sports after Thursday’s practice, “I felt good, I’m good.” His return is expected to provide valuable veteran depth to the Cowboys' defensive line as they aim to improve their standing.
On the offensive side, discussions around the team’s identity have been ongoing this season. Quarterback Prescott acknowledged the team’s efforts at re-identifying their approach, emphasizing the importance of a committed run game. He shared with Yahoo Sports that the team’s prior lack of commitment to the run game had "hurt us" by forcing them into undesirable passing situations earlier than planned. The Cowboys showed significant improvement in this area during their recent 38-21 win against Philadelphia, where they amassed 204 rushing yards at 5.4 yards per carry, with Javonte Williams contributing a career-high 155 rushing yards and a touchdown.
Looking ahead, the NFL trade deadline is two weeks away, and the Cowboys appear poised to be buyers. A key area identified for potential acquisition is an improved pass-rush off the edge, which could help compensate for the team’s observed lackluster coverage. Despite offseason additions like Rashan Gary, Malachi Lawrence, and Von Miller, the group has collectively achieved only 3.5 sacks over seven games, with Donovan Ezeiruaku leading them with 1.5 sacks. Miller, Gary, and Lawrence have contributed zero, one, and one sack, respectively.
While the Cowboys secured a crucial divisional victory, they face an Arizona Cardinals team that, despite a 2-5 record and five losses in its last six games, has historically dominated recent matchups against Dallas. The Cowboys hold a 2-8 record in their last ten meetings with the Cardinals. However, this year presents new teams on both sides, offering Dallas a significant opportunity to build momentum and achieve consecutive wins for the first time this season.
