Cowboys defense film breakdown reveals simple recipe for success
The Dallas Cowboys defense has been lights out this season. They have yet to allow 20 points or more in a game and continue to generate pressure without the need for blitzing. They've positioned themselves as one of the league's best defenses and they've done so without relying on takeaways, too. A to Z Sports […]
The Dallas Cowboys defense has been lights out this season.
They have yet to allow 20 points or more in a game and continue to generate pressure without the need for blitzing. They've positioned themselves as one of the league's best defenses and they've done so without relying on takeaways, too.
A to Z Sports Film Roomanalyst James Foster dove into the tape to find out how the Cowboys have done so to help the team get to 4-1.
As you might've expected, it starts with defensive coordinator Dan Quinn.
"(Quinn) and Mike McCarthy have done a great job of maximizing their personnel," says Foster. "The Cowboys have a lot of players with very diverse skill sets but also some players that are more specialized."
"Dan Quinn deserves a lot of credit for his role in designing the pass rush. The stunts and the simulated pressures that they run have a lot to do with their ability to consistently get in pressure with four."
Watch the film breakdown below!
The Cowboys' driving force for defensive success isn't all about fancy schemes, though.
While Foster gives Quinn some well-deserved praise, he centers the breakdown around the Cowboys' personnel. After all, despite the architect's designs, this unit is super talented and that's what really took the defense to another level.
Sometimes, as simple as it sounds, it's all about having the right personnel. Dallas has that.
"The Cowboys have the perfect blend of veteran players close to their prime and young players that are developing," points out the film expert.
"The crazy thing is (Micah Parsons) is still figuring out from a technical standpoint," says Foster of the Cowboys' superstar defender.
He also points out DeMarcus Lawrence playing as close to his prime as anyone could've expected and breaks down the most underrated safety room in the NFL.
"If the offense can get rolling at the right time and match the level of the defense, this is a legitimate Super Bowl contender, especially in the NFC," concludes Foster.
You can check out the full breakdown above!
Featured image via Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
