Resurgence in Dallas: Cowboys Snap Losing Streak with a Win Over Washington
In a season shadowed by challenges and setbacks, the Dallas Cowboys found a glimmer of hope in Week 12 as they ended a disheartening five-game losing streak with a convincing victory over the Washington Commanders. This triumph, marked by a 247-yard, two-touchdown performance from backup quarterback Cooper Rush, has momentarily revived the spirits in Dallas, bringing their record to 4-7.
The Cowobys' season has been tumultuous, struggling with the absence of key players, including their franchise quarterback and critical components of both their offensive and defensive lines. This adversity was succinctly captured by head coach Mike McCarthy's reflection on the rigors of the NFL: “As a staff, this is very challenging... It's not about players getting injured. It's really when and who, the timing of it... If you're going to coach in this league, you have to be able to coach through these times.” McCarthy’s words reflect the resilience and adaptability required to navigate a season plagued with injuries.
One of the most significant returns was that of Brandin Cooks, whose presence was sorely missed during his stint on injured reserve. Coupled with the anticipated return of DeMarcus Lawrence, the Cowboys are gradually regaining their full strength, potentially at a crucial juncture of the season.
Cooper Rush, stepping into the breach left by the injured franchise quarterback, delivered a career-defining game against Washington. Completing 75% of his passes and achieving a passer rating of 117.6, Rush not only exhibited poise under pressure but also provided a crucial reminder of the depth and potential within the roster. His performance was a beacon of reliability and precision that Dallas desperately needed.
This victory, however, transcends statistics. As Jourdan Lewis observed, the team’s enhanced execution has been years in the making. “It feels like that because we know what we're doing… We're executing the right way from all 11 of us on the field. So it feels good,” he remarked, highlighting the unity and confidence gaining momentum in the locker room.
Despite the optimism spurred by this recent victory, the road to the postseason remains daunting. The SportsLine simulation model currently grants the Cowboys a mere 1.4% chance of securing a spot in the playoffs. Yet, the relative ease of their remaining schedule—ranking as the eighth easiest in the NFL according to Tankathon—offers a sliver of hope. Dallas will face opponents with a combined win percentage of .448, providing potential opportunities to build on their recent success.
Historically, the Cowboys have evidence to encourage them. Since 1990, seven teams have clawed their way into the postseason after starting with a 4-7 record. Just last year, the 2023 Buccaneers exemplified that turnaround, proving that such feats, while challenging, are not unattainable.
The Cowboys' path forward is encapsulated in Lewis’s hopeful assertion: “We saw we were playing good ball the last few weeks. Everything as a team, it wasn't coming together. It came together in a better way last week, and I feel like that gave us the belief to say, 'We all can play good ball and win out.'” This belief will be crucial as they continue to maneuver through a season that insists on more than just talent—it demands resilience, unity, and the unshakeable belief in the potential to defy the odds.
As Dallas prepares for the remainder of the season, the focus remains on maintaining the momentum gained from their recent win. The team will need to draw on the depth of their roster and the experience of their coaching staff to navigate the trials ahead. With returning players like Cooks and Lawrence, and the promise shown by Rush, the Cowboys have the pieces necessary to potentially script an impressive turnaround, if they can sustain and build upon their newfound cohesion and confidence.