Dallas Cowboys defensive stats through 4 games

[plasticman]

During the four combined seasons from 2021 thru 2024 the Cowboys ranked #2 in takeaways with 115. The Bills had 4 more.

They were ranked #1 in INTs with 72.

They were ranked #2 in sacks with 193. The Ravens had 3 more.

They were ranked #1 in both INTs and fumbles returned for a combined 14 TDs.

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So far, for the combined 2025 and partial 2026, the Cowboys are ranked #31 in takeaways with 14.

They are ranked #31 in INTs with 6.

They are tied at #26 in sacks with 39.

They have a combined 1 TD from INT and fumble returns

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The fact that these numbers line up with both Parsons presence on the team as well as subsequent departure is, I'm sure, a mere coincidence.

 

[Captain-Crash]

The defense is giving up those long drives because they can't get off the field on 3rd downs.

The offense is standing there on the sideline watching the defense crap all over the field just begging to get back on so they can score some more.

• Time of Possession Disaster: The Cowboys' offense averages just 28 minutes and 59 seconds of possession per game. That ranks them right down in the bottom tier of the league alongside the Bills and Broncos.
• Quick Possessions: While Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb are lighting up the scoreboard for 30.5 points per game (2nd in the NFL), they are often doing it way too fast or suffering quick three-and-outs.
The defense absolutely "craps the field" by blowing coverages and failing to stop the run, but the offense is culpable too. When an offense scores quickly or goes three-and-out, a tired defense is forced right back onto the field without a breather.
It isn't a case of one unit ruining the other—it's two units failing to play complementary football.