The 44-22 victory over the Washington Commanders in Week 7 was the most complete and dominant game we’ve seen from the Dallas Cowboys this season. They got the better of the Commanders in all the important
categories and now sit at 3-3-1 on the season, second in the NFC East division behind the Philadelphia Eagles.
This is the type of game we’ve been wanting to see from the Cowboys all season. Hopefully it’s a turning point and a sign of things to come for the rest of the year. The Cowboys need to focus on the week-to-week process of continuing to improve and not look past their next opponent on the schedule.
Regardless of what the future may hold for the Cowboys, everyone can hold their heads high after an impressive victory that should provide a boost of confidence around Cowboys Nation. Today, we want to take a look back at this matchup between bitter rivals to find the good, bad, and ugly from this game.
THE GOOD – Dak Prescott and Company
Minus Cooper Beebe, the Cowboys offense was as close to full strength as possible, and we all witnessed firsthand the kind of damage they can inflict Sunday afternoon. Prescott once again played an outstanding game helping CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens, and Jake Ferguson to all have big days. And, after getting stonewalled last week, Javonte Williams rushed for 100+ yards for the second time this season. The Commanders defense played hard, but simply couldn’t match Dallas’ firepower on both the ground and through the air.
THE BAD – Marcus Mariota’s decision to test DaRon Bland
Marcus Mariota’s decision to test DaRon Bland turned out to be a bad one. Bland made history on pick-sixes before, and he was up to it again on Sunday, proving once again he can still make the opposing QB pay when throwing his way on any off target or late throws. That’s exactly what happened to Mariota not long after taking over for an injured Jayden Daniels. Mariota made an ill-advised throw to the outside while under pressure, and No. 26 showed just how bad the decision was.
THE UGLY – Matt Eberflus’ defensive clampdown of the Commanders
The Dallas Cowboys defense under Mike Eberflus’ tutelage so far this season has been without a doubt historically bad. Sunday afternoon against the Commanders though, they made the Washington offense look ugly. Yes, they still gave up a few big plays, but they also managed to get off the field when it counted. They played hard throughout the game and looked rejuvenated, playing with an energy we haven’t seen much from them this year. If they can continue to build on this performance and improve a little each week, this team could become really dangerous.
