The Dallas Cowboys’ season took another hit Sunday as they dropped to 3-6 with a brutal 34-6 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. It was the Cowboys’ first game without Dak Prescott, and while expectations were adjusted, the performance was still disappointing. Here are ten major takeaways from the Cowboys’ struggles on both sides of the ball.
1. Overshown Shines Despite Defensive Woes
DeMarvion Overshown delivered his best performance of the season, showcasing his potential in a struggling Cowboys defense. The young linebacker racked up 11 tackles and two sacks, giving fans something to cheer about. Unfortunately, Overshown left the game with a non-contact injury, and his status remains uncertain.
2. Missed Goal-Line Opportunity
Late in the first half, Dallas was poised to take the lead after a 13-play, 77-yard drive. However, Ezekiel Elliott fumbled at the three-yard line, handing possession to Philadelphia. This misstep has become all too common for Dallas, where promising drives turn sour at the worst moments.
3. Parsons’ Spark of Hope
Just after Elliott’s fumble, Micah Parsons stepped up, forcing a fumble from Eagles’ quarterback Jalen Hurts that Dallas recovered at the six-yard line. While this moment gave Dallas brief hope, it was another wasted opportunity.
4. Another Goal-Line Struggle
Dallas’ offense failed to capitalize on the prime field position provided by Parsons’ forced fumble. They could only manage a field goal, reflecting the struggles of an offense missing its usual rhythm and firepower.
5. Diggs Dominates Hurts
Trevon Diggs continued his trend of strong play against Jalen Hurts, intercepting the Eagles’ quarterback for the third time in his career. Diggs’ ability to disrupt opposing offenses remains a rare bright spot in Dallas’ season.
6. Secondary Struggles with Rookie Carson
Dallas has been waiting for the return of All-Pro corner DaRon Bland, but in the meantime, rookie Caelen Carson has taken over a corner spot. The Eagles took advantage of the inexperienced Carson, highlighting a weak point in the Cowboys’ secondary.
7. Turnover Troubles
The Cowboys turned the ball over five times against Philadelphia, including four fumbles and an interception. Sloppy ball handling was an issue all game, from Cooper Rush mishandling a snap to Terence Steele’s failed attempt to recover a fumble.
8. Trey Lance’s Debut
With Prescott out and Cooper Rush struggling, fans finally saw Trey Lance make his debut. Lance saw limited action with a few designed runs and ended the game with 21 passing yards and an interception. His appearance signals Dallas may be rethinking its quarterback options.
9. A Quiet Game for Lamb
Star receiver CeeDee Lamb was quiet all afternoon, managing just 26 yards on six catches. With Dallas recording only 49 passing yards, it’s clear the team needs Prescott’s return to jumpstart the offense.
10. Home Struggles Continue
The Cowboys are now winless at home, dropping all four games at AT&T Stadium this season. The struggles are especially disappointing after an 8-0 home record last year. Each of these losses has included a deficit of at least 22 points, leaving fans questioning the team’s direction.
The Cowboys’ issues extend beyond the quarterback position, affecting both offensive and defensive execution. As they continue to slide in the standings, the remainder of the season will be a test of resilience for Dallas.
