ARLINGTON, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys' bid for a triumphant home opener unravelled in a definitive 44-19 defeat against the New Orleans Saints. The game laid bare a host of issues for the Cowboys, both offensively and defensively, that will require urgent attention as the season progresses.
From the onset, the Cowboys' defense struggled to contain the Saints, allowing them to score on their first six drives. By halftime, the Saints had established a commanding 35-16 lead, courtesy of two additional touchdowns, underscoring the Cowboys' defensive frailties.
Missed Opportunities
Despite a standout moment where CeeDee Lamb caught a 65-yard touchdown pass, narrowing the deficit to 21-13, the Cowboys could not sustain their momentum. A pivotal moment came when Jalen Brooks slipped on a slant route, leading to Dak Prescott's first of two interceptions. These turnovers proved costly as they stifled any chances of a Cowboys comeback.
Prescott acknowledged the missed opportunities, particularly in the red zone. "I just didn't convert in the red zone. They didn't throw anything we weren't ready for. It’s on me," he remarked. This inefficiency was glaring, with the Cowboys failing to capitalize on three red-zone opportunities.
Offensive Struggles
The offensive struggles were not confined to Prescott's interceptions. The chemistry between Prescott and Lamb, while showing flashes of brilliance, remains a work in progress. Nine of Lamb's 17 targets connected, resulting in 151 yards and a touchdown. Prescott's passer rating through two games stood at a modest 81.4.
Adding to the woes, the Cowboys' ground game faltered. With Tony Pollard absent, the trio of Ezekiel Elliott, Rico Dowdle, and Deuce Vaughn were unable to fill the void. The team averaged only 85 rushing yards per game through the first two weeks, a worrisome statistic for a franchise traditionally known for its strong rushing attack.
Addressing these shortcomings, Prescott emphasized the importance of communication and making adjustments. "Simply just trying to communicate. Maybe those misses, maybe what he saw, what he thought versus what I did and then, honestly, just finding a solution. We have to have those communications to substitute for the time missed."
Defensive Woes
The defense's inability to halt the Saints' offense was alarming. The Saints capitalized on five of their eight third-down attempts, a stark contrast to the Cowboys' six out of thirteen conversions. This disparity in third-down efficiency was a critical factor in the game's outcome.
Prescott highlighted the need for the entire team to step up. "I don't want to say you have to be perfect, but everybody's got to do their job and trust their job. Part of it for me is going back to using my feet more, whether it's scrambling, extending the plays to look to throw the ball down the field or maybe just going and getting a couple yards and getting down."
With only four plays of 20 or more yards this season compared to 76 last year, the Cowboys' explosive playmaking ability has notably diminished. This decline in big plays has compounded their offensive struggles, making it easier for opposing defenses to contain them.
Looking Forward
As the Cowboys gear up for their next game against the Baltimore Ravens, there is an urgent need for introspection and swift corrective measures. The performance against the Saints has provided a clear roadmap of areas requiring immediate attention, from defensive solidity to offensive execution and red-zone efficiency.
Prescott remains optimistic, albeit critical of his performance. "My expectations are crazy high. I’m seeing it well, putting the ball where I want to. That one interception is going to get at me. Outside of that, there may be a few throws that I want to get back."
The Cowboys' season is still in its nascent stages, but the early signs suggest that significant improvements are necessary to meet those lofty expectations. The game against the Ravens will be a crucial test, determining whether the Cowboys can rebound and realign with their aspirations for the season.