In a turbulent 2024 NFL season, the Dallas Cowboys have faced formidable challenges, primarily due to a series of debilitating injuries that have plagued their roster. Entering Week 12 with a disappointing 3-7 record and carrying the burden of a five-game losing streak, the Cowboys have had to navigate a path fraught with setbacks.
Injury-Ridden Roster
The Cowboys' aspirations were dealt a significant blow when franchise quarterback Dak Prescott succumbed to a season-ending hamstring injury. The absence of Prescott is just one aspect of the broader injury woes that have impacted the team. Critical positions have been undermined, including the No. 2 receiver, top inside linebacker, and an unsettling number of edge rushers, cornerbacks, the left tackle, and guards falling to injuries.
Nonetheless, the Cowboys showcased resilience in Week 12, securing a victory over the New York Giants with a score of 27-20. This victory not only ended their losing streak but also provided a glimmer of hope amidst adversity.
Cooper Rush Steps Up
In Prescott's absence, backup quarterback Cooper Rush has had to step up. Against the Washington Commanders, Rush posted his career-high performance with a completion percentage of 75% and an impressive passer rating of 117.6. Supporting his team against the Giants, he recorded 195 passing yards and contributed a crucial touchdown, further solidifying his place as a reliable interim option.
Rush’s perseverance echoes across the locker room and sidelines, reinforcing the sentiment shared by Cowboys cornerback Jourdan Lewis, “We know what we’re doing, and guys are playing hard. We definitely have that confidence in each other that we can go out there and finish games. We all can play good ball and win out.”
Contributions from Key Players
In their pivotal game against the Giants, it wasn’t only Rush who rose to the occasion. Running back Rico Dowdle amassed an impressive 112 yards and contributed a touchdown, his performance mirroring the spirited effort Brandin Cooks exhibited upon his return from injured reserve, marked by a touchdown of his own.
The return of first-team All-Pro cornerback DaRon Bland against Washington has also been a significant boon, signaling potential defensive stability for the Cowboys as they brace for the remainder of the season.
The Road Ahead
As the Cowboys look at their remaining schedule, their five upcoming opponents hold a collective win percentage of .508. The harsh odds presented by the SportsLine simulation model give the Cowboys a mere 1.8% chance of reaching the postseason and a scant 0.9% likelihood of winning all their remaining games. Despite the daunting outlook, there's a piece of historical solace; since 1990, seven teams have clawed their way into the playoffs after beginning the season at 4-7. This includes the 2023 Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who squeezed into the postseason with a 9-8 finish.
In addition to strategizing for upcoming match-ups, the Cowboys are eagerly anticipating the return of key players like DeMarcus Lawrence, Zack Martin, and Trevon Diggs, who could fortify both the offensive and defensive lines. Head coach Mike McCarthy acknowledges the challenges but maintains an optimistic outlook, stating, “As a staff, this is very challenging, but we’ll be better coaches because of this experience. It’s not about players getting injured. It’s really when and who. If you’re going to coach in this league, you have to be able to coach through these times.”
Beyond coaxing resilience and performance from injured rosters, the Cowboys are also driven by the rallying spirit embodied by Dak Prescott. Despite being sidelined, Prescott remains an influential motivator, saying, “If we were able to steal those two games against the Bengals and Buccaneers, you're looking at a whole different picture with the Dallas Cowboys in the playoff picture. So I’m pushing for it and doing everything I can to help make that possible.”
The journey ahead for the Cowboys is fraught with uncertainty and immense pressure, yet the team’s recent victory and the drive to overcome their underdog status will undoubtedly compel them to fight relentlessly until the very last play of the season.