In a season where the Dallas Cowboys appear destined for yet another .500 finish, the situation is not as dire as it may seem. Historically, the Cowboys have been known for their tendency to end seasons with mediocre records, and this trend has persisted for over 20 years. Between 2011 and 2013, the team notably recorded three consecutive .500 seasons. However, since then, they have seen more successful seasons than unsuccessful ones, finishing with only three losing records in the last eleven years.
If the Cowboys manage to secure a victory against the New York Giants in their final regular-season game, it would mark their fifth .500 season since 2011. To those who criticize the Cowboys, it is worth noting that they consistently avoid being a bottom-tier team. Conversely, for their ardent supporters, it should be acknowledged that they rarely reach elite status either. Over the past eleven seasons, Dallas has achieved double-digit wins six times, including three consecutive 12-5 seasons from 2021 to 2023. The key concern has been their playoff performances, which have often ended in disappointment, from the infamous “Dez caught it” controversy to a crushing defeat against the Green Bay Packers.
The last playoff appearance for the Cowboys ended in a 48-32 defeat to the Packers at home, and the game was not as close as the score suggested. Despite facing challenges, the current team did not fall short of preseason expectations. Following the trade of Micah Parsons just days before the season began, many fans understood the uphill battle that lay ahead. Nevertheless, the Cowboys managed an impressive midseason surge, sparking hopes for the playoffs after a Thanksgiving victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. This optimism was short-lived, however, as a three-game losing streak followed, only to be interrupted by a win against the Washington Commanders on Christmas Day.
The primary issue during this troubling stretch was a defense that struggled significantly. Recently, I shared a message with my family, who are also Cowboys fans, reflecting on the team”s current state: “Too bad we only get to watch this offense for a few more weeks. But on a bright note, we only have to watch this defense for a few more weeks.” This year, the Cowboys” defense has set a franchise record for the most points allowed in a season with 477, surpassing the previous record of 473 set in 2020. They have allowed an average of 29.8 points per game, a troubling statistic that even puts them on par with the 1960 Cowboys, who finished winless.
In an attempt to strengthen the defense midseason, the Cowboys signed Quinnen Williams, a move that was viewed positively. However, as Troy Aikman pointed out, the team was more than one player away from resolving their defensive issues. Adding Jadeveon Clowney also seemed promising, yet he will become a free agent after this season. While fans may feel the sky is falling, it is essential to recognize that all is not lost for the Cowboys. On their best days, their offense ranks among the league”s elite, and with Dak Prescott at the helm, they could be a formidable force if he remains healthy.
Despite the evident problems, the Cowboys are not a lost cause. With the right additions in the offseason and potentially a new defensive coordinator, they could emerge as a more competitive team. While it might be premature to declare next year as the Cowboys” year, they are not as far from success as many fans believed just a few months ago.
