Dallas Cowboys’ Playoff Hopes Hurt by Special Teams Breakdowns

The Dallas Cowboys lost a critical game to the Detroit Lions last Thursday. The final score was 44-30. The defeat jeopardizes their push for the NFC playoffs this season.

While turnovers were a major factor, poor special teams play was a decisive weakness. According to reports from ESPN, the Cowboys’ kickoff coverage unit was a significant liability, giving up huge returns that put their defense in a terrible position.

Coach Announces Changes After Costly Performance

Special teams coordinator John Fassel confirmed issues are being addressed. He stated the team’s leverage and containment on kickoffs have been poor. Player adjustments on the coverage unit are now being considered.

The numbers from the Lions game were stark. Dallas allowed 261 yards on eight kickoff returns. Detroit’s average starting field position after a kickoff was its own 36-yard line.

Long-Standing Issue Threatens Crucial Final Stretch

This problem is not new for the 2023 season. Statistics show the Cowboys have surrendered over 1,600 kickoff return yards. That ranks them among the four worst teams in the NFL in that category.

With little margin for error in the playoff race, every yard matters. The team faces the Minnesota Vikings next, who also feature a strong return game. Fixing these errors is now an urgent priority for the coaching staff.

The Cowboys’ path to the postseason remains narrow. Solving their persistent kickoff coverage issues is now a non-negotiable task if they hope to extend their season.

Info at your fingertips

What did the Cowboys’ coach say about the kick coverage?

John Fassel said the leverage and contain have not been good. He confirmed the team is looking at possible personnel changes to fix the unit.

How many kickoff return yards did Dallas allow vs. Detroit?

The Lions gained 261 yards on eight kickoff returns. This gave them excellent average starting field position throughout the game.

Where do the Cowboys rank in kickoff yards allowed?

For the 2023 season, Dallas has allowed the fourth-most kickoff return yards in the entire NFL. This has been a season-long weakness.

Why is this such a big problem for the Cowboys now?

The loss to Detroit hurt their playoff positioning. With crucial games ahead, they cannot afford to give opponents short fields with poor special teams play.

Who is next on the schedule for Dallas?

The Cowboys play the Minnesota Vikings next. The Vikings have a capable return game, making this week’s practice focus on coverage even more important.