The Dallas Cowboys have taken a week off to reflect on their performance, resulting in a 3-3 record after six games.

Owner Jerry Jones has expressed his evaluation, using the term “bad” to describe aspects of the team, which seems to target coach Mike McCarthy and his staff directly.

In response to Jones’ remarks during a press conference at The Star, McCarthy provided a confident rebuttal. “I talk to Jerry regularly,” he stated.

“We’ve had time to analyze our performance.

While I haven’t seen his comments specifically, I don’t believe we have bad concepts or bad plays.”

McCarthy acknowledged the team’s current standing, noting,

“We’re not where we want to be, and that’s my responsibility, which I fully accept. We’re working diligently and are focused on our objectives.”

A significant area of concern has been the running game.

The Cowboys have struggled more than any other NFL team to establish a solid ground game, with their offseason efforts showing little commitment to improving this position.

This has led to the worst rushing statistics in the league, raising doubts about their potential for growth in the second half of the season.

Currently, the Cowboys are last in both yards per game (77.2) and yards per carry (3.5). Although Jerry Jones has hinted at drastic changes, there is still a belief that this team can compete, especially given the NFC’s playoff picture, where they are not far behind.

Despite calls for significant changes in coaching or strategy, Jones appears determined to rely on the talent already within the team rather than pursuing trades.

However, there are opportunities for improvement in their run game, including potential adjustments that could pay off in the long term.

As previously discussed by Mike Fisher, reconfiguring the offensive line could benefit the team.

The offensive line has not met expectations this season, and repositioning players might help them operate more effectively.

For instance, Tyler Guyton could move to right tackle, while Tyler Smith could shift to left tackle.

Regardless, the current running backs need support to create running lanes.

The team must establish a consistent approach in the backfield.

Their struggle to stay competitive in games has hindered their ability to run effectively, but when they have focused on the ground game, Rico Dowdle has emerged as a key player.

Dowdle’s increased role against the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants helped secure consecutive victories for the Cowboys.

However, they reverted to Ezekiel Elliott as the primary ball carrier in their loss to the Detroit Lions before the bye week.

There is a strong argument that Dowdle gives the Cowboys the best chance to win when he handles the ball.

Any adjustments or strategies developed during the bye week will be tested this week against the San Francisco 49ers.

Dallas has several areas requiring urgent improvement to salvage their season.

Failing to make necessary adjustments, particularly in the run game, could be detrimental to their aspirations moving forward.