The Dallas Cowboys showcased their resilience in Week 5 of the NFL season with a gritty 20-17 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, despite being significantly short-handed due to injuries. The absence of standout players including Brandin Cooks, Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence, DaRon Bland, and Caelen Carson marked a challenging matchup on paper. However, the performance on the field told a very different story, one of depth and determination.
Depth Stepping Up
In a game that tested their character, it was the Cowboys' roster depth that rose to the occasion. Jerry Jones, the Cowboys' owner, expressed pride in his team’s adaptability and fight, noting, “It [the win] shows me that our guys do step up. The more of your depth that can play, that is a positive.” This testament to depth was evident across the board, but the game was not without its setbacks.
Further injuries compounded the Cowboys' challenges. During the game, both Marshawn Kneeland and Tyler Guyton were sidelined with knee injuries. Kneeland's injury required a procedure to address a meniscus issue, while evaluations for Guyton's knee continued into Monday, leaving questions about future availability.
Defensive Charge
Despite these setbacks, the Cowboys' defense did not falter. Players like Chauncey Golston, Tyrus Wheat, and Carl Lawson delivered crucial plays, combining for ten tackles, 1.5 sacks, and four quarterback pressures. Their contributions were pivotal in stifling the Steelers' offense, showcasing a defensive unit that, even without some of its biggest stars, could make meaningful stops and apply pressure where it mattered most.
Tyler Smith Proves His Worth
Offensively, one of the standout performances came from Tyler Smith, whose versatility proved vital for the Cowboys. Head coach Mike McCarthy did not hold back praise, stating, “Can't give enough respect for Tyler Smith to just jump out there and play the way he did.” Smith’s readiness to step into a left tackle role, if necessary, demonstrated both his preparedness and the coaching staff's confidence in their player’s capabilities.
Opportunities from the Practice Squad
The Cowboys' strategy of tapping into the practice squad for bolstering their roster was demonstrated by the signing of K.J. Henry from the Cincinnati Bengals practice squad. Although Henry was inactive for this game, his inclusion underscores a forward-thinking approach to player development and readiness. Jerry Jones reinforced this forward-thinking mentality, asserting, “Yes, let's be aggressive. We've got guys on the practice squad that can step up there and make those plays in volume.”
Micah Parsons and Amani Oruwariye's Impact
This game was also notable for the absence of Micah Parsons, marking the first game of his career that he missed. Discussions about his status remain optimistic, as Jerry Jones mentioned, “Well, he's close.” Likewise, the Cowboys are hopeful about the quick recovery and return of Caelen Carson, with McCarthy echoing similar sentiments about his condition.
Amani Oruwariye also continues to make an impression. Having intercepted a pass in Week 4, Oruwariye's development was noted by Mike Zimmer, who observed, “He was on top of the routes a lot better this week.” It's clear that the Cowboys are building not just for the immediate challenges, but for sustained success throughout the season.
In summary, the Cowboys' narrow triumph over the Steelers in Week 5 was a testament to a well-rounded team effort, characterized by depth, adaptability, and solid performances from unexpected players on the roster. Despite their continuing injury woes, the Cowboys managed to hold their ground and secure a crucial win - a signal of their potential strength as the season unfolds.