The Washington Commanders hit the road again in Week 2 when they face the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, this Sunday at 4:25 p.m. EDT. This game marks not only the Commanders' second road game, but it's also their second divisional matchup in a row to open the 2026 season.
Both teams are coming off losses to divisional opponents, and neither wants to start the season 0-2. The Cowboys lost to a New York Giants team that has been near the bottom of the power rankings the entire offseason. The Commanders lost to a Philadelphia Eagles team that is expected to win the division. These losses are not created equal.
The Commanders have plenty to work on this week, but they also did some really good things against the Eagles last week.
Let’s take a look at three reasons for optimism for the Commanders ahead of their Week 2 matchup with the Cowboys.
Cowboys’ run defense
Last week against the Giants, the Cowboys allowed 165 rushing yards, tied for 27th in the league. They had no answer for Cam Skattebo (81 yards) or Jaxson Dart (54 yards).
Against the Eagles, the Commanders rushed for 132 yards. Jacory Croskey-Merritt had 63 yards on 16 carries, and Jayden Daniels added 31 rushing yards. Kaytron Allen and Rachaad White also contributed.
This means that Daniels doesn’t have to throw 35-40 times in the game. The Commanders can (and should) establish the run early. Despite using multiple running backs, they can control the tempo of the game and put Dallas' defense in conflict if they are successful on the ground. They have the pieces to do it, and this week they need to rely heavily on the ground attack.
Daniels getting back into rhythm
Last week, the Commanders looked way off-kilter through the first three quarters as Daniels struggled to regain his rhythm. However, in the fourth quarter, he looked considerably more comfortable on the field, like he finally understood David Blough’s scheme and how to run it effectively. He should be able to pick up where he left off against the Eagles, which is bad for the Cowboys.
The Cowboys allowed 394 total yards against the Giants, and they ranked last in third-down defense, allowing the Giants to convert 81.82% of their opportunities. The Commanders had 295 total yards against the Eagles, which boasts a better defense than the Cowboys.
Daniels doesn’t have to transform overnight. A more decisive version of the quarterback who showed up in the fourth quarter against Philly could create enough problems for Dallas to ensure a Commanders’ win, especially if the connection with Antonio Williams continues and forces Dallas to adjust its defensive scheme.
Commanders’ improved pass rush
Last week, the Commanders recorded three sacks against the Eagles, with Sonny Styles, Frankie Luvu, and Odafe Oweh each finding Jalen Hurts behind the line of scrimmage. Dak Prescott threw two touchdowns but also threw an interception against the Giants, so if the Commanders can pressure Prescott without constantly blitzing, he will be much more uncomfortable in the pocket.
Several linebackers are dealing with injuries after the Commanders’ Week 1 loss, with backup Jordan Magee heading to IR and starter Frankie Luvu's status in question for Sunday. Prescott had to use nine different receivers to get 175 passing yards against the Giants, proving that if the Commanders can make him squirm, he will have to get creative. Prescott doesn’t typically give up many turnovers, but this group of pass rushers could change that in Week 2.
And when the Commanders force him into a turnover, they have to capitalize. They can’t rely on this, though. Pressuring Prescott and making him uncomfortable in the pocket will undoubtedly force Brian Schottenheimer to adjust his offensive game plan. Some good news for Washington is that it will get Dorance Armstrong back this week.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders vs. Dallas Cowboys: 3 reasons for optimism
