Through four games, the Dallas Cowboys have been historically bad on defense. The team has a 1-2-1 record and has given up 132 points in three games. Though the offense has looked unstoppable at times, the defensive disasters have relegated the team to one of the six worst in the NFC. The Cowboys rank No. 30 in total defense, No. 32 in passing defense and No.17 against the rush. Dallas has allowed mediocre quarterbacks to throw for over 200 yards and multiple touchdowns in back-to-back games. Their remaining schedule, which features seven elite quarterbacks, will be hard to watch for Cowboys fans.
While trading away their best defensive player in the offseason plays a role in Dallas’ defensive struggles, it is not the only issue plaguing that side of the ball. The secondary has consistently given up big plays, and pass rushers have been unable to apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Though some analysts have argued that the team’s problems have to do with personnel, the biggest issue lies at the head of the defense. Coordinator Matt Eberflus, known for his catastrophic seasons as the Bears’ head coach, has handicapped the Dallas defense in more ways than one.
Three games in, Eberflus has shown zone coverage for most of the snaps. The coordinator is known for his 4-3 scheme, generally rushing four and dropping back seven in coverage. The approach heavily differs from the previous coordinator, Dan Quinn, who primarily ran a healthy mix of man coverage and cover three. While Eberflus’ strategy aims to limit big plays and generate turnovers, the team has consistently failed to do either. Giants quarterback Russell Wilson, who was just benched for rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart, managed to throw for over 400 yards and three touchdowns, targeting primarily only one receiver, sophomore sensation Malik Nabers. Bears quarterback Caleb Williams also sliced through the Cowboys’ defense, throwing for just under 300 yards and notching four touchdowns.
Dallas has only generated two turnovers so far, with one being thanks to an ill-advised throw from Wilson. Aside from their decent week one performance against the defending champion Philadelphia Eagles, the Cowboys have been lackluster at stopping the opposing team’s passing attack. If changes are not made to the defense immediately, the Cowboys will be eyeing an extended losing streak.
Dallas currently has the fifth-highest-rated strength of schedule moving forward. If they wish to compete within their conference, Eberflus and his defense will desperately need to make adjustments. While it is too early to call for the coordinator’s job, he is more than likely to be the scapegoat if the losses continue to pile up. Dallas’ defense and Eberflus will be under heavy fire in the coming weeks. If changes are not made, the Cowboys’ historically bad play will unfortunately continue.
