The Dallas Cowboys are facing a challenging moment as they prepare for their Week 12 matchup against the Washington Commanders. With a disappointing record of 3-7, the Cowboys are in dire need of a turnaround. The team has now lost five consecutive games, and the absence of their star quarterback, Dak Prescott, due to season-ending hamstring surgery, has left them scrambling for answers.
Cooper Rush Takes the Helm Again
In the wake of Prescott’s injury, the Cowboys have turned to Cooper Rush as their starting quarterback. Rush’s performance has been a mixed bag; in the recent game against the Houston Texans, he completed 32 of 55 passes for 354 yards, one touchdown, one interception, and one fumble. Despite his efforts, the Cowboys suffered a crushing 34-10 defeat at home, marking another disappointing chapter in their season.
Head coach Mike McCarthy acknowledged the need for improvement, particularly in the quarterback position. He expressed regret for not allowing Trey Lance to take the field during the Texans game, hinting at a possible shift in strategy moving forward. “We got a package for Trey, and we’ll see what happens,” McCarthy stated, indicating that Lance could see action in the upcoming game against Washington.
Struggles on the Field
The Cowboys’ struggles have been evident not only in their overall record but also in their performance metrics. They are currently 0-5 on the road and have lost home games by more than 20 points four times this season. This inconsistency has raised questions about the team’s ability to compete effectively in the league.
Rush’s recent outings have not instilled confidence among fans or analysts. In his last two starts, the Cowboys have been outscored 68-16, a staggering statistic that underscores the team’s offensive struggles. To make matters worse, Rush has struggled to connect with star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, who has caught only 14 of his 22 targets for 114 yards in the last two games.
Looking Ahead to Washington
As the Cowboys prepare to face the Commanders, who hold a record of 7-4 and are looking to snap a two-game losing streak, the pressure is mounting. The Commanders are a formidable opponent, and the Cowboys will need to bring their best game to have any chance of victory.
Jerry Jones, the Cowboys’ owner, has publicly backed Rush as the starting quarterback, stating, “I think our best chance is to have Rush in here, and the goal is to win the game.” This confidence from the top may provide Rush with the support he needs to regain his form and lead the team to a much-needed victory.
Potential for Change
The question on everyone’s mind is whether the Cowboys will eventually turn to Trey Lance as their starting quarterback. Acquired from the San Francisco 49ers before the season in exchange for a 2024 fourth-round pick, Lance is a former No. 3 overall pick and brings a wealth of potential. The Cowboys may find themselves in a position where they have no choice but to give Lance a shot, especially if Rush continues to struggle.
McCarthy’s comments suggest that the coaching staff is considering all options. The team needs a spark, and Lance’s dynamic playmaking ability could provide that. However, the Cowboys must first focus on stabilizing their current situation and finding a way to win games.
Injuries and Impact
Injuries have played a significant role in the Cowboys’ struggles this season. Losing Prescott was a devastating blow, and the ripple effect has been felt throughout the roster. The team has had to adjust its game plan and find ways to compensate for the loss of their leader on the field.
Additionally, the Cowboys’ offensive line has faced its share of challenges, impacting the overall performance of the offense. Protecting the quarterback and establishing a solid running game will be crucial as they prepare for the Commanders.
Final Thoughts
As the Dallas Cowboys gear up for their crucial matchup against the Washington Commanders, the stakes couldn’t be higher. With a struggling offense and a defense that has been inconsistent, the team must rally together to turn their season around. The return of Cooper Rush as the starting quarterback offers a glimmer of hope, but the looming presence of Trey Lance could also signal a shift in the team’s direction.
The Cowboys have the talent to compete, but they need to find a way to execute on game day. Will they rise to the occasion against the Commanders, or will their struggles continue? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: the Cowboys are at a crossroads, and every game counts as they fight for their season.
