For the better part of 2017 season, Dallas Cowboys defense played poorly. After the opening week, where they held the NY Giants to only three points, they gave away 140 points in next four games. This number gives you average 35 points allowed per game, which puts them at the bottom of NFL. But, things changed after the return of linebacker Sean Lee. Also, during the bye week, they seem to figure out how to be a compact unit.
In the last three matches, they have allowed only 46 points. This might not seem like a feat against league-low 49ers, and against Redskins on the obscure weather. But, on Sunday against Kansas City Chiefs, the defensive play was spectacular without an excuse. The Chiefs were, before the duel, leagues fourth team in total offense and third in points scored per game. And they were beaten to a pulp by Cowboys. In first nine weeks, this was by far their worst performance.
Chiefs had 331 yards, which is -50 compared to what they averaged through the season. The only time they had fewer points, besides vs. Cowboys (17) was against Steelers (13). Alex Smith threw his first interception of the season in Dallas. Also, Taco Charlton recorded his first sack in NFL career vs. Chiefs QB.
The only Cowboys lapse during the game was Tyreek Hill touchdown late in first half. But, with all things accounted for, the Chiefs were utterly shut down. The defense from Dallas is not regarded as one of the leagues elite units; such are Steelers, Vikings, or Jaguars. But, nonetheless, after years of being below average, they finally look like a respectable outfit.
David Irving and DaMarcus Lawrence are now genuine NFL superstars. Sean Lee is the pillar of stability, while Jourdan Lewis and Xavier Woods have tightened up the pass defense.
Dallas Cowboys are steadily improving in recent weeks and they win against Kansas City Chiefs is a testimony to this. With their defense now matching their offense, it is going to be hard to stop the Cowboys in upcoming rounds. Right now, they sure look like one of the best teams in NFL.
