Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy admitted that failing to get Cooper Rush and the offense into a rhythm was a major factor in their 34-6 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. After Rush’s seventh start, which saw him throw for a career-low 45 yards on 23 attempts, McCarthy acknowledged the offensive struggles and accepted responsibility.
“I didn’t get Cooper into a rhythm,” McCarthy said postgame. “That’s something I didn’t feel good about. We need to find a better way, and I need to do a better job there.”
While running back Rico Dowdle had an effective first half, Dallas couldn’t convert in key situations, finishing 3-14 on third downs and punting six times. McCarthy emphasized his desire to improve “third and manageable” scenarios but admitted execution failed them against Philadelphia.
On the Cowboys’ lack of deep shots, McCarthy noted, “We had a number of crossing routes we felt good about, but it just didn’t happen. Ball didn’t go down the field enough, that’s for sure.” The result was the Cowboys becoming the seventh NFL team this season to go a full game without completing a pass beyond 10 air yards.
In search of a spark, McCarthy inserted Trey Lance in the second half, who Dallas acquired with a fourth-round pick in 2023. Lance contributed 38 yards, but was sacked twice and threw an interception. McCarthy valued the experience, stating, “I thought he did some good things, and definitely some things he can learn from.”
The Cowboys are currently seeking to add a third quarterback to their roster, likely a practice squad player, given Prescott’s indefinite absence. However, McCarthy confirmed that Rush will retain his starting role in Dallas’ upcoming primetime game against the Houston Texans. Despite Sunday’s struggles, McCarthy expressed his confidence in Rush: “Yes, Cooper Rush will be the starter this week.”
Dallas now faces pressure to regroup with a 3-6 record and a key divisional matchup ahead, as fans hope to see a more efficient offense that can keep playoff hopes alive.
