Following a 3-3 start after six games, the Dallas Cowboys have had a week to reflect.
Team owner Jerry Jones described the situation as “bad,” which seemed like a direct criticism of head coach Mike McCarthy and his staff.
McCarthy addressed the remark on Wednesday at The Star, offering a strong response. “I talk to Jerry all the time,” McCarthy said. “We’ve reviewed everything. I didn’t see his specific comment, but I don’t believe we have bad concepts or plays.”
He added, “We’re not where we want to be, and that’s my responsibility. I’m fully aware of that. We are working diligently to achieve our goals.”
One area needing particular attention is the run game. The Cowboys have struggled more than any NFL team to establish a ground attack, ranking last in both yards per game (77.2) and yards per carry (3.5). Their offseason approach to the running back position has resulted in poor performance without much hope for improvement as the season progresses.
Despite Jerry Jones hinting at drastic changes, the Cowboys remain close to playoff contention in the NFC. Jones seems to prefer relying on in-house talent rather than acquiring new players via trade.
To improve, the team may need to rework its offensive line, with players like Tyler Guyton possibly shifting to right tackle or Tyler Smith moving to left tackle. The running backs need better support to create lanes and space, and Dallas must also commit to a clear backfield structure.
When the Cowboys have managed to stay competitive, Rico Dowdle has been the key to their success. In wins over the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants, Dowdle played a major role. However, before the bye week, Dallas gave Ezekiel Elliott more carries in a blowout loss to the Detroit Lions.
It’s been argued that Dowdle offers the team the best chance of success when he’s the primary ball carrier. As they face the San Francisco 49ers next, the Cowboys must make rapid progress, especially in the run game, or their season may be in jeopardy. In short, it’s time to stop being “bad.”
