Recap Cowboys vs Panthers

This was a much needed win for the Cowboys, after the last second missed field goal last week, they needed to end this losing streak. And they did, with much improvement all around really. Romo and Austin hooked up for the Cowboys only touchdown and then Dan Bailey hit all 4 of his field goals to lift the Cowboys over the Panthers 19-14. Things that went well, the offensive line, turnovers, and defense. Ever since the bye week the offensive line has been improving greatly, with great blocking to help pave the way for 2, 90 yard rushers against the Ravens last week, and this week Romo was not sacked once during the entire game. Now yes the run game was not very productive, most of the yards came from Romo in the air, but the Cowboys were also with out starting running back Demarco Murray. So the offensive line is not to blame. Plus with Romo not being sacked he had more time in the pocket and did not throw an interception in the game and had his highest rating of the season of 85.1. The only turnover came from a fumble from Miles Austin after a reception. So the turning the ball over was also much better. Then the defense was spectacular yet again. Holding the offense to just 2 touchdowns the whole game, and getting a interception and recovered a fumble. So plus 1 in the turnovers for this game. Also the Panthers were only 2-10 on third downs and 0-2 on fourth downs. Now there are still things to improve for the Cowboys. One as I mentioned last week, the red zone problems. The Cowboys get so far on drives but have trouble in the red zone. The Cowboys had 3 trips to the red zone and they all ended up being field goals. Yes field goals can win games as the Cowboys proved last season against the Redskins once by winning by just kicking field goals the whole game. But they do not cut it. The Cowboys need to start finding the end zone more or they will not be able to compete for the Super bowl let alone the NFC East championship. Penalties are still a work in progress, the Cowboys had 6 for 43 yards but it was definitely better than all of the illegal shifts last week. Now yes the run game was not amazing but Murray was hurt so I can understand why they did not do so good. But I will talk about Dunbar once again, the Cowboys signed him to the roster and he still has yet to a return a kick off, or a punt. And he hasn't gotten much carries in the run game either. I really think the Cowboys should use him more, I think he can become a player that can contribute week in  week and out. As for injuries Dez Bryant did play which was good but did not really contribute much in the game. And then Phil Costa had to get carted off the field. Luckily the offensive line has been stable and him being out was not much of an impact. So overall the offensive line, turnovers, and defense did great, and the Cowboys need to improve on red zone offense, penalties, and special teams. Also this win marks Tony Romos 50th career win.