Which team has the better defense?
Previously we broke down the offense for this week’s upcoming game for the Dallas Cowboys. Now we dive back into the position battleground, this time looking at how the defensive positions and special teams stack up against each other
DEFENSIVE LINE
The Cowboys defensive line have been the most impressive in terms of how far they’ve risen this season. At the start of the year the defensive line struggled with injuries, couldn’t generate pressure and was getting beaten easily in the run game. The last three games has Dallas be the number one team in sacks per game and have allowed the sixth-fewest rush yards per game. Osa Odighizuwa continues to be the anchor that finds ways to disrupt any play coming his way. Micah Parson is the straw that stirs this drink for the defense, it’s no surprise since his return from injury some several weeks back this defense has improved. Chauncey Golston is an unsung hero that’s played efficiently the past two weeks.
The biggest problem for this defense is the fact they are facing the number one rushing offense this season. It’s not just Saquon Barkley, it’s also Jalen Hurts who leads the league in rushing touchdowns. Adding to Dallas’ defensive problems is the Eagles offensive line which is built to pave the way in the running game, and does so very effectively.
The Philadelphia Eagles’ defensive line has been a significant strength for the team during the current NFL season. Several key players have emerged as impactful contributors, showcasing both individual talent and effective teamwork. Jalen Carter has been a standout performer on the Eagles’ defensive line. His ability to rush the passer is particularly noteworthy, as he has achieved an impressive pass-rush grade of 80.6 ranking fifth among defensive interior players in the NFL. Over the past four games, Carter has delivered three strong performances, solidifying his position as a crucial asset for the Eagles.
After experiencing a slump earlier in the season, Josh Sweat has rebounded impressively. In his last five games, he has recorded five sacks, seven quarterback hits, and five tackles for loss. Milton Williams has contributed effectively to the defensive line’s overall performance and continues to develop into a reliable player within the rotation.
Win: Eagles
Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images
LINEBACKER
Marist Liufau has now solidified himself as the new sheriff in town. He’s been making plays the last couple of weeks and last week was no exception. He’s now established himself as a defensive playmaker leading to plays that result in either a turnover or a negative play for the opposition. Eric Kendricks is a key figure on this defense and he was inactive last week due to a calf strain.
The Eagles linebacker corps this season is characterized by a mix of established talent and emerging potential. The team has made significant changes to its linebacker unit, bringing in new players through free agency and the draft, while also relying on returning players who have shown promise. Nakobe Dean is looking to establish himself as a key player after an injury-plagued second year in 2023. He’s second on the team in tackles and tackles for loss. The player leading the way in tackles and tackles for loss is Zack Baun who joined the Eagles after leaving the New Orleans Saints. Dean is dealing with an abdomen injury.
Conclusion:
Losing players due to injury is no exception for both teams at this position. But the loss of DeMarvion Overshown seriously puts a negative spin to this group for Dallas. Baun and Dean have been both been having good seasons. They can defend very effectively laterally or come down and press.
Win: Eagles
Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images
DEFENSIVE BACKS
The Cowboys defensive backs have had a notable season, characterized by both strengths and challenges. The performance of this unit can be analyzed through several key aspects: overall effectiveness, individual performances, injury issues, and their role helping to find ways to impact the opposing passing game. This secondary has shown resilience and adaptability throughout the season. They have been effective in creating turnovers, which is a critical component of their defensive strategy. Jourdan Lewis made one of the most mind-blowing interceptions last week that looked like a touchdown pass all the way up until Lewis stood up with the ball. DaRon Bland had the biggest play to end the game with his fumble recovery to end the game last week.
One of the standout features of the Eagles’ defensive backs is their ability to work together as a unit. This season, they have excelled in communication and teamwork, which has allowed them to cover receivers effectively and support each other in various defensive schemes. The absence of individual interceptions among cornerbacks highlights a collective approach where players focus on minimizing big plays rather than seeking personal accolades.
Rookie Cooper DeJean has made a notable impact during the 2024 NFL season. Drafted in the second round, he has quickly established himself as a versatile player capable of contributing significantly to the Eagles’ secondary. His ability to play multiple positions within the defensive backfield has allowed him to adapt to various game situations and matchups against opposing offenses. Quinyon Mitchell has demonstrated elite coverage abilities, but he’s had a mixed season this year. His statistics reflect this, as he has allowed the most number of yards and completions against him among all defensive backs between these two teams.
Conclusion:
Injuries have played a significant role in shaping the performance of the Cowboys’ defensive backs this season. The absence of key players at various points has forced younger or less experienced players into starting roles, impacting overall cohesion and performance. The Eagles have stayed healthy this year and other starters like Darius Slay and C.J. Gardner-Johnson all come into this week with a clean slate. That’s led to a team allowing the second-fewest passing yards this year.
Win: Eagles
Photo by Timothy Nwachukwu/Getty Images
SPECIAL TEAMS
Brandon Aubrey made all four field goals with some significant scores made from 50+ yards. He’s been one of the best sniper kickers this year and very reliable.
Jake Elliott has a 77% field goal percentage this year, that ranks 28th among starting kickers. He’s made one field goal from seven attempts at 50+ yards.
KaVontae Turpin remains one of the best kick return specialists this year and his dual role as returner and wide receiver with big-play ability makes him one of the best weapons on the Cowboys roster.
Kenneth Gainwell returns kicks for Philadelphia and averages 24 yards per kickoff return which ranks 45th among kickoff specialists.
Win: Cowboys
