Dallas Cowboys' defense struggles to meet preseason expectations
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 7, 2026, 12:31 PM
Last updated Nov 7, 2026

The Dallas Cowboys have disappointed on defense this season, ranking 29th in DVOA and 30th in EPA/play allowed after eight weeks. A roster overhaul aimed at improvement has not yielded the expected results. National media outlets, along with fans, have expressed surprise at the Cowboys’ defensive performance, which has yet to show signs of improvement as the season progresses.
- •Cowboys defense ranks 29th in DVOA and 30th in EPA/play allowed.
- •Offseason expectations were high due to a coaching and roster overhaul.
- •National media recognized their misjudgment of the Cowboys' potential.
- •Current season objectives seem unattainable for the Cowboys' defense.
- 12:31 PMYahoo Sports — Cowboys' preseason hype didn’t just fool fans, but national media too
"The Dallas Cowboys fooled more than just fans and local media into thinking their defense would be better, but they fooled the national media as well.
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