The Dallas Cowboys were once again humiliated on national television, suffering a 34-10 loss to the Houston Texans in Week 11. The Cowboys’ repeated poor performances have become a familiar sight, with the team failing to make significant progress despite having plenty of opportunities. The familiar image of Jerry and Stephen Jones looking dejected has come to symbolize another season slipping away. Although the Cowboys had some moments early on in this game, they couldn’t sustain any momentum, and their struggles resurfaced in the second half.
Despite being close early in the game, the Cowboys’ offense faltered as the second half unfolded, largely due to their game plan. Mike McCarthy’s decision to rely on a pass-heavy strategy proved disastrous, with backup quarterback Cooper Rush attempting 55 passes. Although Rush had some success in passing for a career-high 354 yards, the running game was abandoned too soon, with starter Rico Dowdle getting only nine carries. The lack of balance in the offense made it easier for the Texans’ defense to pressure Rush, who was sacked five times and faced numerous near-interceptions.
The poor execution of McCarthy’s game plan was evident, as his insistence on passing left the Cowboys vulnerable. Rush’s erratic play, particularly his inability to complete passes effectively, compounded the issue. Although he didn’t throw many interceptions, his performance was shaky and inefficient, and the overall offensive approach failed to produce positive results. This pattern of poor decisions and execution continues to be a hallmark of McCarthy’s time as head coach of the Cowboys, leading to more frustration among fans and the coaching staff alike.
In addition to offensive struggles, the Cowboys’ offensive line, particularly right guard Zack Martin, also faced criticism. Martin, who has been one of the league’s top linemen for years, had one of the worst performances of his career. He allowed a devastating sack in the fourth quarter when he was overpowered by defensive tackle Tim Settle. Martin’s issues appeared to stem from injuries, and his poor performance, coupled with his visible disappointment, indicated that his days as one of the league’s best players may be behind him.
Another notable issue for the Cowboys this season is the lack of speed in their offense. The team has struggled to find ways to break through defenses with explosive plays. However, wide receiver and kick returner KaVontae Turpin showed off his speed with a 64-yard touchdown catch, hitting a top speed of over 22 mph. His quickness and acceleration are assets the Cowboys need to utilize more effectively. Although Turpin isn’t a deep threat, his ability to make plays in space could provide the offense with the burst of energy it desperately needs.
The Cowboys’ season continues to be defined by moments of missed opportunity. In the third quarter of the Texans’ game, kicker Brandon Aubrey missed a short field goal after slipping, but McCarthy chose to send him out for a 64-yard attempt. Aubrey made the kick, bringing the score to 20-13. With a penalty from the Texans and a chance to drive into the red zone, the Cowboys had an opportunity to close the gap further, but as has been the case all season, they failed to capitalize on this opening. The game, like the season, slipped away
from them.
