The Dallas Cowboys have emerged from their bye week, prompting hopes that coaches and players utilized the time to address the numerous issues preventing the team from living up to its potential.

As they gear up for a Sunday Night Football clash against the San Francisco 49ers in Santa Clara—after last year’s humiliating 42-10 loss—the stakes are high.

This season, the Cowboys are coming off a bye week and seeking to turn their fortunes around.

Last year, following a similar break at a 4-2 record, the team surged to a 6-1 finish, ultimately dominating the NFC East.

However, this year presents a tougher challenge, with a grueling five-game stretch following the bye that could define their season.

Here are three changes Head Coach Mike McCarthy can implement to rejuvenate the team.

1. Revitalize the Running Back Position

Currently, the running back unit is among the least effective aspects of the Cowboys’ roster, ranking last in the NFL in rushing yards per game and various key metrics.

Rico Dowdle leads the team with just 246 yards from 59 attempts, averaging a decent 4.2 yards per carry, but his performance indicates a lack of effectiveness in the run game.

Veteran Dalvin Cook, who has been on the practice squad since the start of the season, could provide the spark the Cowboys need.

While he may not possess the same explosiveness as in his prime, his experience and vision could benefit a struggling rushing attack.

Dowdle’s inexperience shows, particularly in recognizing running lanes, making Cook a potentially valuable addition to the active roster.

Though a trade for another running back might be ideal, it’s unlikely given the front office’s approach.

Therefore, giving Cook a chance on game day could be a low-risk move that might yield positive results.

2. Shift at Safety

Under Dan Quinn’s defense, the safety unit flourished, with players like Donovan Wilson and Malik Hooker becoming key contributors.

However, it’s time to consider benching Wilson and Hooker in favor of younger talents like Juanyeh Thomas and Markquese Bell, who have seen limited defensive action—only 27 and 23 snaps, respectively.

The current starters have been out of position frequently, raising questions about their effectiveness.

Allowing Thomas and Bell to receive starter’s snaps in practice could provide insight into whether they can bring a fresh perspective and improved performance to a struggling defense.

If nothing else, increasing their involvement in the defensive rotation may provide much-needed depth.

3. Utilize Dak Prescott’s Running Ability

One of the most pressing changes is incorporating more designed runs for Dak Prescott. Since his serious injury in 2020,

Prescott has largely refrained from using his legs as a weapon, though the offensive dynamics have shifted this season.

With the running game faltering, defenses are less threatened by the Cowboys, making it crucial for Prescott to take on a more active role.

Historically, Prescott was one of the league’s more effective rushing quarterbacks.

Before his injury, he averaged over four rushing attempts per game, accumulating significant yardage and touchdowns.

In contrast, his post-injury stats reflect a dramatic decline in rushing attempts and production.

Integrating more designed runs into the offensive strategy could unlock new dimensions for the Cowboys, helping to relieve pressure from the running back position and opening up the passing game.

As the Cowboys head into a critical phase of their season, these adjustments could prove pivotal.

Sparking the running back room, refreshing the safety position, and leveraging Prescott’s rushing abilities are steps McCarthy can take to reshape the team’s trajectory.

The bye week presents an opportunity for growth and re-evaluation, and how the players respond will determine the course of the remainder of their season.