The Dallas Cowboys were defeated 22-20 by the Miami Dolphins on a fireworks-filled Christmas Eve. The game featured goal line turnovers and explosive moves throughout the game.
Dallas may have lost, but the Dolphins gave the Cowboys valuable film to learn from. Here’s how the Dallas Cowboys can continue their fight and stay hot through the end of 2023.Packed, shot; How the Cowboys can build on their 20:22 performance against the Miami DolphinsKeep sending the ball to CeeDee LambIs it really necessary to say it? CeeDee Lamb’s incredible pace places him far from the best Wide Receiver in the NFC East. He has caught a touchdown in seven consecutive games, averaging over 13 yards per reception. It’s no coincidence that he was Dallas’ leading receiver on Christmas Eve. Once-star CBs like Xavien Howard and Jalen Ramsey entered the season widely considered the toughest CB matchup in Dallas. Lamb found a way to slice up every Pro Bowl CB like a Christmas ham. CeeDee Lamb’s ability to play in the backfield, slot, and outside receiver is what makes him so special. The Cowboys wouldn’t have been close to the Dolphins without Lamb’s stellar performance with six receptions for 118 yards. After a quiet week in Buffalo, Lamb is back in form. Getting Dak Prescott to look first is critical to Dallas’ success. The Dolphins may have beaten the Cowboys, but it’s safe to say that anyone who was at that game knows who the best receiver was. Expect another high-level performance from Lamb against the Detroit Lions on the 30th. This is the brightest key to Dallas’ victory.Limit rushing yards gainedA few weeks ago, we would have said “Stop the run”. Unfortunately, the last two weeks have shown that that’s not really an option for Dallas at the moment. The Cowboys allowed players like Raheem Mostert and De’Von Achane to run at them. 20% of Miami’s first downs came from runs of 10 yards or more. Performances like this can’t keep happening if the Dallas Cowboys want to make a deep playoff run. Fortunately, the most underrated piece of the Dallas puzzle will return soon. DT Johnathan Hankins remains optimistic about Dallas’ return to action against the Detroit Lions.“Every day got better. I don’t worry or worry about anything,” Hankins said. “I’m from Detroit, so it would be fun to play against them,”It’s the best key to winning in Dallas.Limit the meters gained while runningA few weeks ago it would have read: “Stop the flight”. Unfortunately, the last two weeks have shown that that’s just not in the cards for Dallas right now. The Cowboys let people like Raheem Mostert and De’Von Achane run at them. 20% of Miami’s first downs came from runs of 10 yards or more. Performances like this can’t keep happening if the Dallas Cowboys want to make a deep playoff run. Fortunately, the most underrated piece of the Dallas puzzle will return soon. DT Johnathan Hankins remains optimistic about Dallas’ return to action against the Detroit Lions.“Every day got better. I’m not too worried or stressed about anything,” Hankins said. “I’m from Detroit, so it would be nice to play against them.”The Cowboys should thank their lucky stars that Hankin’s injury isn’t serious. Since his departure, Dallas has increased its average rushing yards allowed from 122.5 to 128.5. The average difference of six yards per player really shows how important Hankins’ status still is. The running game has improved significantly since Hankins came to town, but there is still work to be done. Dallas currently has two options. Option one: Welcome Hankins into the fold and keep your fingers crossed. Option two: ask Hankins for help. Newly released DT Sebastian Joseph-Day would be an excellent compliment to the Cowboys. His worth was also proven.It’s a nice idea, but it will cost time and money. The Cowboys can’t beat better teams than the Dolphins if they don’t do something to improve the running game. Something has to change. Give Hunter Luepke a break, people Okay, don’t call my head yet. Let me finish.Cowboys FB Hunter Luepke sat out against Miami, made crucial short-yardage gains and made costly mistakes. We all saw him fumble on the goal line. It’s the language of full-backs, the goal line is where players like Luepke make their names. Many Cowboys fans called for his head after he gave the Dolphins the ball. It’s easy to be angry with Lüpke, but his mistakes were a strangely good sign.Lüpke’s consistent performance was largely overshadowed by his goal-line fumble. QB Trey Lance’s former college teammate cost Dallas big time, but it’s too early to ask for his job. Luepke continues to improve as Dallas gives him gifts. He uniquely finds his footing in a very crowded and talented offense. It’s time for Cowboys fans to learn to forgive and for Dallas to continue giving them their all. Mistakes make players worse and Luepke is in a “learn or leave” situation. Although he is the best rookie fullback, he is expendable. Before we even get to that, don’t be surprised if you see the Cowboys continue to feed him and throw him the ball.Hunter Luepke’s fumble was the first sign of trouble for Dallas. The Cowboys won’t beat teams much better than the Dolphins without Luepke. Look for him to find the football against Detroit, both receiving and running. He is gradually becoming one of Dallas’ lesser-known weapons.
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