The Dallas Cowboys started the season with 48 sacks through their first 12 games, but have only recorded one over the past three games after opponents possibly exposed a weakness: an overreliance on blitzing.
According to The Athletic’s Bob Sturm, the Cowboys blitz more than any team in the NFL.
Frequent blitzing isn’t inherently bad because it creates pressure on a quarterback, but if used too often, it leaves a team susceptible to big plays in the passing game. A strong secondary is needed to counter that vulnerability. In Dallas’ case, a key injury has weakened its secondary.
Starting cornerback Anthony Brown suffered a season-ending Achilles tear in Week 13 against the Colts, causing a defensive dip.
The Cowboys allowed 91 points against Houston, Jacksonville and Philadelphia, equating to 30.3 points per game, well above the league average.
The weakness was highlighted against the Eagles as backup quarterback Gardner Minshew threw for 355 yards.
This is particularly concerning because the NFC has several high-powered offenses Dallas may have to face in the playoffs. The Eagles (No.1), Vikings (No.7) and 49ers (No.8) all rank among the league’s top 10 in scoring.
Unless one of Dallas defensive backs suddenly becomes a star, it might need to consider tweaking its scheme so it doesn’t get burned in the playoffs.
