1. Micah Parsons’ actions speak volumes
Micah Parsons found himself in the spotlight after making controversial remarks about head coach Mike McCarthy following the Eagles game. On his podcast Monday, Parsons claimed he didn’t mean to throw McCarthy under the bus. However, he faced backlash for implying there were issues with McCarthy’s work ethic. Subsequently, Parsons chose to skip his media obligations during game week.
2. Cooper Rush’s bounce-back
Days after the Eagles game, it was revealed that QB Cooper Rush might have sustained a mild neck strain from a first-quarter fumble. This could explain his lack of throwing power early in the game. Rush downplayed the injury, insisting he’s ready for this week. I want to be clear: I’m not excusing Rush’s performance; it was poor against the Eagles. It’s hard to comprehend how he managed to complete just 13 of 23 passes for 45 yards. I hope to see the Cowboys attempt some deep throws to inject some excitement into their offense, which was nonexistent against the Eagles, rendering McCarthy’s strategy ineffective and dull.
3. Defensive strategies
The Cowboys allowed 34 points against the Eagles, but when the offense commits five turnovers, you can’t put all the blame on defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer’s unit. In fact, Zimmer should be commended for keeping the Cowboys competitive in the first half by employing aggressive pressure tactics that troubled Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts. The Cowboys notched five sacks and forced two turnovers before halftime against Philadelphia.
4. Nico Collins’ return poses a threat
The Texans are excited to welcome back playmaking receiver Nico Collins this week after he missed time due to a hamstring injury. Before his injury, he was having an outstanding season, averaging 113 receiving yards per game.
5. Rico Dowdle steps into the lead role
This might seem amusing, but Cowboy fans may not find it funny. Head Coach Mike McCarthy announced this week that the team would abandon their running-back-by-committee strategy, officially naming Rico Dowdle as the primary running back in a struggling Cowboys rushing attack — and that’s being generous.