Dallas Cowboys 2017: A Season In Review

by Jhon Lennon 40 views

The Dallas Cowboys 2017 season was a year of high expectations and, ultimately, disappointment for Cowboys fans. After a stellar 2016 season that saw them finish with a 13-3 record and win the NFC East, led by rookie sensations Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott, the Cowboys entered 2017 with Super Bowl aspirations. However, a combination of injuries, suspensions, and inconsistent play led to a rollercoaster season that ended without a playoff berth. Let's dive into the details of this memorable year.

Season Overview

The Cowboys finished the 2017 regular season with a 9-7 record, missing the playoffs for the seventh time in the last ten years. This was a significant step back from their impressive performance the previous year. The season was marked by inconsistency on both sides of the ball, and the team struggled to maintain the same level of dominance they displayed in 2016. The Cowboys' offense, which had been one of the most potent in the league, experienced periods of stagnation, and the defense, while showing flashes of brilliance, often struggled to contain opposing offenses. Key injuries to players like Tyron Smith and Sean Lee further hampered the team's performance, adding to the challenges faced throughout the year. Despite the setbacks, there were moments of brilliance, showcasing the team's potential and leaving fans wondering what could have been if things had gone differently.

Key Games and Moments

The 2017 season was filled with several memorable games and moments, both good and bad, that defined the Cowboys' year. Here are a few key highlights:

  • Week 2 vs. Denver Broncos: In a game that many expected the Cowboys to win handily, they were thoroughly dominated by the Broncos, losing 42-17. This game was a wake-up call for the Cowboys, exposing weaknesses on both sides of the ball and raising questions about their ability to live up to the high expectations placed upon them. The Broncos' defense stifled the Cowboys' offense, while their offense had their way against the Dallas defense, setting the tone for a long and challenging season.
  • Week 9 vs. Kansas City Chiefs: This game was a thrilling back-and-forth contest that the Cowboys ultimately won 28-17. Dak Prescott had a stellar performance, throwing for multiple touchdowns and showcasing his ability to make plays under pressure. The victory provided a much-needed boost to the team's morale and kept their playoff hopes alive. It was a game that highlighted the Cowboys' potential when all facets of the team were clicking.
  • Ezekiel Elliott's Suspension: Throughout the season, the looming suspension of Ezekiel Elliott due to off-field issues cast a shadow over the team. Elliott was eventually suspended for six games, which significantly impacted the Cowboys' offense. His absence forced the team to rely more on their passing game, and while Dak Prescott showed flashes of brilliance, the offense lacked the same explosiveness it had with Elliott in the backfield. The suspension was a major distraction for the team and undoubtedly contributed to their inconsistent performance.
  • Thanksgiving Day vs. Los Angeles Chargers: In a crucial game with playoff implications, the Cowboys were embarrassed at home by the Chargers, losing 28-6. This game was a low point in the season, as the Cowboys looked listless and uninspired. The Chargers' defense completely shut down the Cowboys' offense, and the loss effectively ended their playoff hopes. The Thanksgiving Day game was a stark reminder of the team's struggles and the challenges they faced in living up to expectations.

Statistical Leaders

Despite the team's overall struggles, several players had strong individual performances during the 2017 season. Here's a look at some of the statistical leaders:

  • Dak Prescott (QB): 3,324 passing yards, 22 touchdowns, 13 interceptions
  • Ezekiel Elliott (RB): 983 rushing yards, 7 touchdowns (in 10 games)
  • Dez Bryant (WR): 838 receiving yards, 6 touchdowns
  • Sean Lee (LB): 90 tackles, 1 interception
  • Demarcus Lawrence (DE): 14.5 sacks

Coaching and Roster Changes

The 2017 season also saw some significant coaching and roster changes for the Cowboys. The team made several adjustments to their coaching staff in an attempt to address the team's struggles. These changes were aimed at improving the team's performance on both sides of the ball, but they ultimately failed to produce the desired results. Additionally, the Cowboys made a few roster moves throughout the season, bringing in new players to fill gaps and address weaknesses. However, these moves did not have a significant impact on the team's overall performance.

What Went Wrong?

Several factors contributed to the Cowboys' disappointing 2017 season. The suspension of Ezekiel Elliott was a major blow to the offense, and the team struggled to find a consistent replacement for him. Injuries to key players, such as Tyron Smith and Sean Lee, also played a significant role in the team's struggles. Additionally, the Cowboys' defense was inconsistent, and they often struggled to contain opposing offenses. The team also lacked the same level of focus and discipline they displayed in 2016, leading to costly penalties and turnovers. Ultimately, the combination of these factors led to a season that fell far short of expectations.

Looking Ahead

Despite the disappointment of the 2017 season, there were still reasons for optimism for Cowboys fans. Dak Prescott continued to show promise as a franchise quarterback, and the team had a number of talented young players who were expected to improve in the coming years. The Cowboys also had several high draft picks in the upcoming NFL Draft, which they could use to address their weaknesses and add more talent to the roster. While the 2017 season was a setback, it also provided valuable lessons that the team could learn from as they looked to the future. The Cowboys needed to address their weaknesses, improve their consistency, and stay healthy in order to return to contention in the NFC.

The Dallas Cowboys 2017 season was a year of unfulfilled potential. While the team showed flashes of brilliance, they ultimately fell short of expectations due to a combination of injuries, suspensions, and inconsistent play. As they looked ahead, the Cowboys needed to learn from their mistakes and make the necessary changes to return to contention in the NFC. The 2017 season served as a reminder that success in the NFL is never guaranteed and that even the most talented teams must continue to work hard and improve in order to achieve their goals.