Despite three consecutive postseason berths, the Cowboys need to capitalize on this playoff opportunity.
Coach Mike McCarthy has selected the Latin expression “seize everything” as the 2023 motto for the Cowboys, prominently displayed in the main hallway outside their locker room alongside a collage of images. The collage features a huddle of Cowboys with the Vince Lombardi Trophy in the upper-left corner, while the middle showcases photos of the five Super Bowl-winning teams. A conspicuous gap awaits the inclusion of the 2023 Cowboys.
Dak Prescott credits Mike for making this the season’s theme, emphasizing its significance throughout the year, particularly as they enter the postseason against the Green Bay Packers in the wild-card round on Sunday (4:25 p.m. ET, Fox).
The current postseason is a crucial opportunity for the Cowboys, and the question arises – if not now, when? This season presents their best chance in years to revive the Super Bowl magic, partly due to the absence of formidable opponents like Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady, or Drew Brees. However, taking into account factors such as the Cowboys’ salary cap, upcoming decisions on free agents, the draft, and uncertainties in the front office and coaching staff, the 2023 postseason is a full-fledged commitment for Dallas.
This doesn’t necessarily imply a downfall for the Cowboys beyond 2024, but it underscores the fleeting nature of windows of opportunity. As cornerback Stephon Gilmore, returning to the postseason for the first time since 2019, having won a Super Bowl with the New England Patriots in 2018, succinctly puts it: “It’s do or die now; this is why you play the game.
What’s the Cowboys’ mindset entering playoffs? It’s time to be selfish about winning – Jon Machota, The Athletic
Mike McCarthy admitted on Monday that he made a mistake last year before the Dallas Cowboys’ game against Green Bay. In that Week 10 matchup, McCarthy, facing his former team for the first time, addressed the team about Green Bay at the beginning of the week. However, Dallas ended up losing 31-28 in overtime, squandering a lead of two touchdowns entering the fourth quarter.
Reflecting on his decision, McCarthy expressed regret, acknowledging that it was a misstep. He explained that he believed the focus should solely be on the players and the game, emphasizing that football is fundamentally a players’ game, and that’s where the attention should be directed. McCarthy recognized that dwelling on external factors, such as his personal experience with Green Bay, was not conducive to the team’s energy and preparation.
McCarthy stated, “It’s a players game. It always has been, always will be. That’s all it should be focused on. I believe there’s 24 hours in a day, seven days to prepare, and if we’re not working on winning, then it’s a waste of time.” He admitted that making the team feel the need to speak on his behalf in the locker room was a mistake and vowed not to repeat it.
Addressing the issue, McCarthy emphasized the importance of learning from experiences and not letting anything distract from the goal of winning. He spoke to the team about the need for everyone to be selfish in their commitment to winning and advancing. McCarthy stressed the tightness and commitment required for success, urging the team to take full advantage of the effort they’ve put into the season.
Nick at Nite: What could go right? What could go wrong? – Nick Harris, DallasCowboys.com
There is plenty of good, and possibly some bad, going for the Cowboys ahead of this year’s playoff run.
As the Dallas Cowboys gear up for another playoff run under head coach Mike McCarthy, the circumstances appear favorable for a deep postseason journey, potentially reaching the Super Bowl. With guaranteed home playoff games and strategic matchups that could work in their favor, the Cowboys are poised for success. However, certain challenges and obstacles remain.
On the positive side, the connection between quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb stands out as a reliable and consistent force. Considered the best quarterback-to-receiver connection in franchise history, their chemistry could be a key factor in the postseason. Winning the time of possession battle has also been crucial for the Cowboys, with a strong correlation between ball control and victory. The Packers’ defense, known for limiting explosive pass plays, plays into the Cowboys’ strengths, allowing them to sustain long drives and control the clock effectively.
However, challenges persist for the Cowboys. Penalties continue to be a significant issue, making them the second-highest penalized team in the NFL and the most penalized among playoff teams. Discipline fouls and gameplay physicality infractions have plagued the team, posing a potential threat to their success in crucial moments. Additionally, offensive production in the middle portion of the game remains a concern, and addressing these weaknesses will be essential for a successful playoff campaign.
As the Cowboys embark on their postseason journey, the balance between positive factors and overcoming challenges will ultimately determine their fate in the quest for an NFC title and a Super Bowl appearance.
