To lose to the New York Giants 34-17 in the regular-season finale was not the way many of us envisioned this Week 18 matchup to go. It’s not so much the Dallas Cowboys lost the game, but the way they lost it. They said they would play to win, but they never really looked like that during the game.
The loss was definitely disappointing and not exactly the most ideal way to head into the offseason. All we can try to do is focus on some of the good things that took place Sunday afternoon, and try not to dwell
too much on all of the bad and ugly.
THE GOOD – Jadeveon Clowney
If Jadeveon Clowney was looking to make a statement in the regular-season finale against the Giants, he certainly accomplished his goal. He was at his best Sunday afternoon and finished the game with a total of three QB sacks as well as recovering a fumble. The veteran pass rusher was making plays all over the field against the Giants, showing his nonstop motor and relentless ability. He now finishes the year as Dallas’ sack leader for the season with 8.5 QB sacks and will more than likely be a priority to re-sign by the organization in the offseason.
THE BAD – Not finishing on a strong note
It wasn’t all that surprising the Cowboys lost to the Giants in the season finale, but the way they lost was extremely disappointing. They played poorly from the get-go and it wasn’t really the lasting impression many of us wanted to see from them heading into the offseason with a lot of work to do. Winning or losing really wasn’t the objective this week, rather finishing on a strong note they could hopefully build upon in the coming months. Instead, they left a sour taste in our mouths, likely further increasing the distrust fans have with the organization.
THE UGLY – Matt Eberflus’ defense
The Cowboys defense once again played an ugly game of football. Just as they have all season, they lacked the ability to get off the field and gave up too many chunk plays. Penalties, missed tackles and bad discipline were all part of Matt Eberflus’ defense. This might be the last time we say that as Eberflus’ job is definitely in jeopardy
