The Dallas Cowboys’ red zone problems aren’t new in 2024, although Dak Prescott and the offense have shown moments of efficiency, the struggles were evident against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Dallas only converted one out of four red zone opportunities in Pittsburgh and currently ranks 22nd (46 percent) for red zone touchdowns this season. While Pittsburgh’s offense didn’t pose much of a threat, the upcoming Detroit Lions’ offense certainly does.
Dak Prescott understands the importance of converting red zone chances into touchdowns.
“It’s crucial to score touchdowns,” Prescott said. “We’ve been moving the ball, but with their [Lions] offense being strong, we need to reach the end zone and give [Brandon] Aubrey a break.
We must capitalize on these opportunities and apply pressure on them. After moving the ball well last game, we’ve got a solid plan to finish drives in the end zone.”
For the Cowboys, the focus is clear.
Touchdowns are the only goal for the offense. Field goals won’t be enough against a Lions team that just scored 42 points on the Seattle Seahawks.
Additionally, the Lions have gained over 350 yards of total offense in every game this season, so the Cowboys know Dan Campbell’s team is capable of scoring big.
Though Brandon Aubrey is a valuable asset in the NFL, ideally, he would only appear for extra-point attempts. However, with 16 field goal attempts in five games (14 converted), Dak acknowledges it’s too many.
If the Cowboys aim to secure a third consecutive win, Aubrey’s role must diminish—touchdowns, not field goals, are the key.
