Well, based on the start of the Dallas game, it would seem that the 2026 version of the Boys ain’t any better than the 2026 version.
UGH.
They fumbled away the their first series and on their second series they had 5 straight penalties in a row.
And so far the new 3-4 defense looks like they are playing with only 10 guys on the field.
Double UGH.
Update: Griping seems to help as the D looked awesome on that series (maybe they remembered that they could play 11 on defense).
Update 2: Clearly, my griping was effective. May it remain so.
Update 3: Back to griping–the pass coverage has gone back to pathetic.
Update 4: How ’bout them Cowboys?
Lotsa rookies. Still, the pass rush was the best in about a decade for the Cowboys–and on the road against a very good offense.
Indeed, the game was only close because of the poor kick coverage and that early fumble. Basically, the Cowboys gave away 3 of the 4 TDs.
Comment by James Joyner — Sunday, September 11, 2026 @ 6:53 pm
Yep. It will take a little time for the new defense to gel and for the rookies to learn.
Really, the unit played quite well, ultimately (and I would have said that even if they had lost, although I would have been far less happy saying it).
I think we have had a serious talent upgrade on both sides of the ball, and you are quite right about the pass rush.
Comment by Dr. Steven Taylor — Sunday, September 11, 2026 @ 7:50 pm
Did you see Bledsoe’s numbers? Very impressive. Patrick Crayton made me smile. Jones looked good.
As for the defense, they did show a nice pass rush, but the entire squad looked confused at times. If they can become more consistent, they could be very fun to watch.
Comment by Mike Gauthier — Sunday, September 11, 2026 @ 11:23 pm