The Dallas Cowboys were coming into their Week 8 matchup with the Denver Broncos riding high after putting on their best performance of the season in Week 7.
However, the Cowboys were nothing like the team fans saw just one week ago against the Washington Commanders. Actually, they looked more like the team that was embarrassed by the Chicago Bears earlier this season.
Sure, the team had some excuses coming into the game against the Broncos. For one, the secondary had multiple issues, which caused a UDFA to make his first career start. But it wasn’t just the secondary that failed the Cowboys on Sunday.
MORE: Cowboys’ Jerry Jones sends strong message to DC Matt Eberflus
No, it was an all-systems failure for the Dallas defense. That statement has actually summed up this defense after nearly every performance this season, which is why defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus is becoming the talk around the fanbase once again.
Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus during training camp at the River Ridge Fields. / Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The Cowboys gave up 426 total yards of offense in their Week 8 loss. Coming into the game, the unit was allowing just a little over 400 yards per game to their opponents.
It seemed like everything was starting to click last week, but now it is back to the drawing board. The Cowboys’ defense was slashed in many ways, including giving up 179 yards on the ground. However, getting off the field on third down may have been the biggest key.
Denver Broncos running back J.K. Dobbins runs against Dallas Cowboys cornerback DaRon Bland. / Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
The Broncos converted 62% of their third-down attempts on Sunday. That’s not ideal for a defense facing so many injuries.
MORE: Matt Eberflus’ defense, Cowboys’ DE group proving to Dallas o-line iron sharpens iron
Prior to Week 8, the Cowboys coaching staff had been supportive of Eberflus, with a lot of the pressure cooling off after last week. However, it isn’t surprising to see fans pulling the pitchforks back out after today’s performance.
Eberflus’ days might be numbered on the sidelines with the Cowboys.
Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus. / Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images
— Enjoy free coverage of the Cowboys from Dallas Cowboys on SI —
3 takeaways from Dallas Cowboys’ deflating Week 8 loss vs. Broncos
2 winners & 4 losers from Cowboys’ disastrous loss to Broncos in Week 8
Trevon Diggs’ Cowboys career may not be over after all
Jerry Jones hints Week 8 outcome could impact Cowboys’ NFL trade deadline plans
Stephen Jones’ latest comments show Cowboys are actively seeking trade
Dallas Cowboys’ embarrassing Week 8 effort vs. Broncos highlights biggest weakness
Meet Brenley Herrera: Viral Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader rookie