The Dallas Cowboys have relied on 19 first- and second-year players this season, hoping to develop them into dependable contributors. However, as the team struggles with a 47-9 loss to the Detroit Lions and a fourth consecutive defeat at AT&T Stadium, the urgency for these newcomers to step up has never been higher.
“It’s an excellent opportunity for our young guys to continue to play,” head coach Mike McCarthy said, emphasizing the need for the team to build on its strengths despite recent setbacks. “This will pay forward.”
One critical area needing improvement is the offensive line. The Cowboys managed only 53 rushing yards, while quarterback Dak Prescott faced pressure on 47.4% of his dropbacks. With rookies Tyler Guyton and Cooper Beebe starting, the offensive line must develop chemistry to succeed.
“Constructing the offensive line is one of your biggest decisions as a head coach,” McCarthy noted. “Those five guys playing together and practicing together is huge; you don’t get those reps back.”
Other young players, like DeMarvion Overshown and Caelen Carson, are also stepping up. McCarthy recognizes the potential of these young talents, recalling similar situations from his past coaching experiences.
“When you play this many young players, the long game can be very bright,” he stated.
The question now is how quickly the Cowboys can turn things around. Last year, they entered the bye week with a 4-2 record and answered their own questions by winning six of their next seven games, finishing 12-5.
“At the end of the day, if we totally don’t believe it’s about us, it will always be about us,” McCarthy explained. “I believe we will turn this around. I think this is an opportunity we relish, and I know I do, and I think they do too.”
With confidence in their young players and the possibility of growth, the Cowboys aim to rebound and make a strong push in the second half of the season.
