The Dallas Cowboys’ defense had a rough start to their Monday Night Football matchup against the Houston Texans. On the very first play, Nico Collins raced 77 yards for a touchdown, only for it to be called back due to a penalty. Despite the temporary reprieve, Houston quickly found the end zone with Joe Mixon slicing through Dallas’ defense for a 45-yard, untouched touchdown.
ESPN analyst and Cowboys legend Troy Aikman didn’t hold back in his critique, specifically targeting nose tackle Mazi Smith for his role in the defensive breakdown.
Aikman Points to Smith’s Shortcomings
“You’re gonna see the center Jarrett Patterson making his second start at center. He gets Mazi Smith on skates,” Aikman observed during the broadcast. “And you got Joe Mixon, he cuts back. Nice crease on the outside. Excellent job up front by the offensive line, and the defensive problems for the Dallas Cowboys continue.”
The 2023 first-round pick, who has faced scrutiny for inconsistent play throughout his young career, was overpowered on the play. Smith was pushed several yards off the ball, opening a huge cutback lane for Mixon. Without resistance from the line, Mixon bolted untouched to the end zone.
Smith’s Struggles Continue
JOE MIXON 45 YARDS TO THE HOUSE! 😤 pic.twitter.com/oCIE50hZ51
— ESPN (@espn) November 19, 2024
While Smith showed flashes of potential against the Eagles the previous week, moments like this have raised questions about his ability to anchor the defensive line. A nose tackle’s job is to control the line of scrimmage, but Aikman’s pointed criticism highlighted Smith’s difficulty in maintaining leverage and shedding blocks.
For linebackers to effectively fill gaps, they need their nose tackle to occupy blockers. On this play, Smith’s inability to hold his ground left Dallas’ second-level defenders exposed.
A Pattern of Struggles
Smith’s performance is emblematic of broader issues within the Cowboys’ defense, which has repeatedly struggled against the run this season. It’s no wonder that nose tackle is being flagged as a key need for Dallas in the upcoming offseason.
As for Aikman, this is just the latest instance of the Hall of Famer using his platform to call out his former team. Known for his candid takes, Aikman’s criticisms often resonate with frustrated fans who see similar flaws in the Cowboys’ game.
Looking Ahead
If Dallas hopes to salvage their season, players like Smith will need to step up. With the playoffs slipping further from reach, every game becomes an audition—not just for team success, but to prove individual worth in a franchise that demands results.
