Much has been discussed regarding the Dallas Cowboys’ physicality, or the lack of it, during their three losses before the bye week. This topic has been a focal point among players and coaches, with varying interpretations regarding effort and execution. Micah Parsons has frequently shared his thoughts on the issue.
As he aims to return from a high ankle sprain to contribute on Sunday, Parsons is mentally prepared for the challenge. His physical readiness is the next step, having closely observed the last two games.
“Yeah, I think we need to be better,” said the three-time All-Pro pass rusher.
This sentiment extends to takeaways, which used to be a hallmark of the Cowboys’ defense but have been significantly lacking this season. This deficiency has compounded issues when combined with offensive turnovers, especially in the red zone.
Parsons has pinpointed the reasons for the decline in takeaways over the first six games. While the absence of DaRon Bland, the reigning NFL interceptions leader, plays a role, it’s not the sole factor.
“I think we’re out of position. Guys are out of position,” Parsons explained. “You’ve gotta be in position to create turnovers. Sometimes, you [aren’t] going to get lucky and just swat at the ball and create those turnovers. You’ve gotta be in position. You’ve gotta tackle well, and you’ve gotta rally well.”
“We got to get guys running to the ball more and obviously we got to put up more points. We’ve gotta get these teams out of these running game situations and [out of] feeling comfortable.”
Previously, Parsons emphasized that players needed to stop “trying to be Superman” and focus on their roles and assignments, particularly following a 47-9 defeat to the Detroit Lions in Week 6.
Thus, beyond execution, a mindset issue appears to plague the Cowboys, as they strive to find their Mamba mentality.
“I think we’ve gotta go into these games and say, ‘We’ve gotta step on somebody’s neck,'” he remarked. “[It’s] just the simple things: being disciplined, can’t kill each other on red zone trips. Can’t kill each other on third downs.”
The Cowboys’ next significant challenge will be against the San Francisco 49ers, a team that has posed problems for them recently. Securing a win at Levi’s Stadium after the bye would greatly benefit head coach Mike McCarthy and boost the team’s confidence.
To achieve this, the right mentality must drive effort, which in turn must lead to execution and ultimately victory.
“We can’t beat ourselves,” Parsons asserted. “San Fran, obviously they’re going through their fair share of injuries but, at the same time, we have to play great football up there.”
