> Yet under defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, the Cowboys proved that adaptability — not rigidity — can spark a defensive revival.
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> Eberflus, long known for [his predominantly zone-based system](https://insidethestar.com/4-data-driven-fixes-to-save-the-cowboys-collapsing-defense), changed course.
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> Instead of relying on spot-drop coverage and soft zone looks, he unleashed a man-heavy attack — calling man coverage on more than 45% of defensive snaps, the highest rate of the season. The impact was immediate.
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> While in man coverage, the Commanders’ passing game completely collapsed:
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> That shift let the defense play fast, physical, and instinctive — finally matching scheme with talent.
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> **Man Coverage Ignites the Pass Rush**
>
> As **[Sports Illustrated](https://www.si.com/nfl/cowboys/news/6-winners-1-loser-dallas-cowboys-statement-nfl-week-7-win-over-commanders?utm_source=chatgpt.com)** reported, the Cowboys’ man coverage didn’t just help the secondary — it reignited the pass rush that had been under fire all year:
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> The correlation is clear — when coverage holds, the front can feast.
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> Tight man defense forced Jayden Daniels to hesitate, giving Dallas’ rushers the extra second they’ve been missing all season.