TEN 28, DAL 14: Something’s Got To Change

Any glimmer of hope that the optimistic Cowboys fan could have had for their 2018 season died on national television tonight, as Dallas lost to the Tennessee Titans 28-14. The loss drops them to 3-5, and they were unable to capitalize on Washington’s week 9 defeat to pick up a game in the NFC East.

The night started about as perfect as it could have for the Cowboys defense, forcing two fumbles and setting their offense up with short fields in the first quarter. But, despite three red zone trips, the Cowboys only scored 7 points during that opening quarter.

The game really changed when Dak Prescott threw an egregious interception in the end zone, trying to force the ball to Amari Cooper in double coverage. Tennessee took the interception and went right down the field to tie the game, creating a 14 point swing which Dallas never really recovered from.

To be honest, no unit was good enough tonight. The offense line started hot, but once again did not live up to their preseason billing. Dak Prescott had arguably his worst game of the season, and it honestly feels fair to put this loss on his shoulders.

And, although they are often complimented greatly, the Cowboys defense failed them tonight. Time and time again they allowed Marcus Mariota and the Titans to convert third downs and stay on the field.

This was once again a complete organizational loss, starting with the owner and trickling down through the coaching staff and each position group.

Dallas will travel to Philly to take on the 4-4 Eagles on Sunday Night Football next week, in a game which suddenly feels much less important.

Other Notes

• As mentioned, Dak Prescott was simply not good enough tonight. He threw for 243 yards and 2 touchdowns, but he missed Cole Beasley for an easy touchdown early in the game, fumbled the ball away in their own territory, and threw a game changing red zone interception. He has to be better, but it’s fair to question if he can be.
• On what was likely the final meaningful play of the 2018 Cowboys season, Prescott held onto the ball too long while the receivers failed to get open. He then eluded some pressure, but threw the ball out of the end zone. That’s their passing offense in a nut shell right now.
• The Titans went 11 for 14 on third down tonight. 11 for 14.
• The Cowboys finished the game 1-4 in the red zone, despite spending their fourth overall pick on a running back and trading a first rounder for a wide out last week.
• On the bright side Amari Cooper looked really good tonight, as he scored his first touchdown as a Dallas Cowboy and created consistent separation from Titans’ defensive backs.
• Something has to change with this team going forward. To be honest, I think it all might have to change. The head coach, the play caller, and the quarterback. Maybe they’ll turn it around, but it’s hard to see a realistic path for them to do so.
• Don’t stop reading Inside The Star, though. Those guys are good.