In a season overshadowed by an avalanche of injuries, the Dallas Cowboys have found themselves navigating turbulent waters during the 2024 NFL campaign. Although marred by initial setbacks that saw them floundering with a dismal 3-7 record going into Week 12, the Cowboys' recent victory against the New York Giants has injected a glimmer of hope into their embattled lineup.
Injury Woes and Returning Stars
For the Cowboys, the 2024 season's narrative is heavily punctuated with injuries. The team's franchise quarterback, Dak Prescott, suffered a season-ending hamstring injury, compounding the Cowboys’ adversity. However, the team draws solace in the return of seasoned players like Brandin Cooks, who emerged from injured reserve to score a crucial touchdown against the Giants. Furthermore, the prospect of DeMarcus Lawrence, Zack Martin, and Trevon Diggs rejoining their ranks bolsters future outlooks.
In the game against the Giants, backup quarterback Cooper Rush admirably filled the void left by Prescott, completing 195 yards with a touchdown. Rush, who previously delivered a career-high performance against Washington with a 75% completion rate and a passer rating of 117.6, is proving a competent leader under challenging circumstances.
“As a staff, this is very challenging, but we'll be better coaches because of this experience. It's not about players getting injured. It's really when and who. If you're going to coach in this league, you have to be able to coach through these times,” reflected head coach Mike McCarthy, recognizing the need for resilience.
Offensive and Defensive Challenges
The Cowboys' season woes are not confined to their quarterback troubles. Injuries across key positions, including the No. 2 receiver, top inside linebacker, four edge rushers, cornerbacks, left tackle, and guards, have staggered the team's performance. Only now, with players like DaRon Bland making their return against Washington, can the Cowboys begin to patch up their leaky defensive line.
Despite the injuries, performances like that of running back Rico Dowdle, who amassed 112 yards along with a touchdown against the Giants, have injected some much-needed vibrancy into the Cowboys' offensive strategies. With an increase in the level of gameplay coupled with the tactical genius of the coaching staff, there remains a belief in finishing the season on a positive note.
A Rocky Path to Playoff Hopes
The road ahead for the Cowboys remains steep and arduous. SportsLine’s simulation model places their chances of making the postseason at a mere 1.8%, with an even slimmer 0.9% chance of winning all their remaining games. Historically, only seven teams since 1990 have made it to the playoffs after beginning the season with a 4-7 record—most recently, the 2023 Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who finished 9-8 and extended their season.
The Cowboys' five remaining opponents collectively possess a .508 win percentage, which presents formidable challenges. Yet, there persists a tangible optimism among the squad, as cornerback Jourdan Lewis articulated, “We know what we're doing, and guys are playing hard. We definitely have that confidence in each other that we can go out there and finish games. We all can play good ball and win out.”
Dak Prescott, from the sidelines, voices a sentiment that reflects both frustration and determination, “If we were able to steal those two [games against the Bengals and Buccaneers], you're looking at a whole different picture with the Dallas Cowboys in the playoff picture. So I'm pushing for it and doing everything I can to help make that possible.”
The Dallas Cowboys' 2024 season remains one of struggle and tenacity—a test of their strategic adaptability and depth of character. While injuries have undoubtedly hindered their progress, the team continues to strive for victory. With key players gradually returning to the field, the Cowboys aim to conclude a tumultuous season with resilience and, perhaps, an extraordinary comeback.