ESPN analysts debate Cowboys' chances of missing playoffs this season

Unsatisfied with their second-round exit from the playoffs last season, the Dallas Cowboys implemented numerous changes in the offseason, starting with the removal of offensive coordinator Kellen Moore. Jerry Jones now has Mike McCarthy calling plays for the first time since he left Green Bay. While the team owner is clearly confident in his skipper taking on even more responsibility, not everyone is convinced that it’s the right move.

Former Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle and current ESPN analyst Chris Canty argued on Get Up on Monday that Dak Prescott‘s ball security issues and McCarthy’s pivot away from Kellen Moore’s offensive philosophy will actually result in a regression from the Cowboys offense.

“The quarterback turns over the ball way too much,” Canty started. “The other issue? The head coach. His new philosophy on offense is absolutely laughable. He got rid of Kellen Moore because he says he wants to run the football more so the defense doesn’t tire out, so they can win games. Guess what? Kellen Moore, this team was tops in win percentage. Maybe there was a method to their madness lighting up the scoreboard.”

“If you think Mike McCarthy taking on more responsibility with the offensive play-calling and game management, if you think that’s a good thing, stop me right now,” Canty continued. “I don’t believe that. That’s why I think the Cowboys are in for a regression.”

Cowboys season hinges on Dak Prescott

Canty’s fellow ESPN analyst Rob Ninkovich responded with some doubts of his own. He believes the Cowboys will live or die by Prescott this season.

“At the end of the day, look at any Super Bowl team… what’s the one thing that they all have in common? Their quarterback play is at another level,” Ninkovich said. “If you look at the Cowboys, this will be a huge year for Dak. He’s going to have to step up, make the throws, and be in the top five throwing touchdowns. I believe if he doesn’t have a huge year, the Cowboys won’t have a big year.”

After missing time at the beginning of the 2022 season, Prescott posted a 66.2% completion rating. He had 2,860 passing yards, 23 touchdown passes and 15 interceptions in the regular season. He also had 45 rush attempts for 187 total yards and another score.

It was clear Prescott missed an additional offensive weapon behind the team’s stars, especially in the postseason when Tony Pollard went down. So far, Dallas has done their best to add more weapons around him.

The Cowboys are still considering a possible extension for Prescott this offseason. The former Bulldogs star signed a four-year, $160 million in March of 2021. His current contract includes a 2024 cap hit of $59.5 million.