The Dallas Cowboys are currently grappling with one of the most pressing issues in football: ball security.
Ranked third worst in the NFL with a turnover ratio of -8, the Cowboys’ struggles on both offense and defense have become a defining characteristic of their season.
This alarming trend raises questions about their potential to compete effectively moving forward.
At the heart of this issue is quarterback Dak Prescott, whose performance has been a rollercoaster ride. Prescott has thrown an unsettling number of interceptions, undermining his team’s offensive efforts.
In an era where protecting the football is paramount, his inability to make sound decisions under pressure has contributed significantly to the Cowboys’ negative turnover differential.
This has not only stalled drives but also put immense pressure on the defense to compensate for the offensive misfires.
The statistics paint a grim picture: Prescott has often been at the center of critical moments where turnovers have shifted momentum.
His interceptions have come at inopportune times, leaving the defense on the field longer than necessary and forcing them to defend short fields.
This vicious cycle exacerbates the Cowboys’ issues, as the defense struggles to find its footing while trying to respond to the offense’s shortcomings.
However, it’s not just the offense that’s failing to secure the ball. The Cowboys’ defense, which was once a strength of the team, has also faltered in capitalizing on opponents’ mistakes.
While they have had opportunities to create turnovers, including interceptions and fumble recoveries, their failure to do so has compounded the problem.
In games where they could have shifted momentum, missed chances have kept the offense under pressure, leading to further mistakes.
To turn things around, the Cowboys must prioritize ball security in their upcoming games. This involves not only Prescott tightening his decision-making but also the defense becoming more opportunistic. Coaches need to instill a mindset focused on creating turnovers while protecting the ball on offense.
Simple strategies like increased ball-handling drills and film sessions can help the team reinforce the importance of these aspects.
As the Cowboys navigate the remainder of the season, addressing these turnover issues is crucial. The team’s ability to reverse its negative turnover ratio could be the key to unlocking its full potential.
Without significant improvement in ball security, the Cowboys risk falling further behind in a competitive NFC landscape.
The time to act is now; otherwise, they may find themselves on the outside looking in come playoff time.