Cowboys Mailbag: Can Cowboys Overcome Penalties Again?

Is it more valuable for the Cowboys to hold their draft capital rather than use it to trade for a difference maker to create pressure and sacks? Why waste the offensive talent you have this year and hold on to the draft picks when it's clear that Dallas has half a super bowl contending team?

With the struggles the defense is having, should the Cowboys change their offensive game plan? Should they become a ball control offense? It seems as if they are still being aggressive even though the defense is struggling. I know it might lead to them not scoring as many points, but it also may help the defense by limiting the opposing offense's possessions. What do you guys think?

I'm so tired of the quotes we heard from Dak Prescott after the game: "Look in the mirror. Are you giving enough?" And also, "We've got to find consistency." That comment is insulting to every Cowboys fan. We've been hearing it for what seems like years. 

I'm very concerned that perhaps one of the most talented players on the roster, especially on defense, may be rushing back. Given the defense's struggles, particularly at linebacker, is too much pressure being put on DeMarvion Overshown to return, considering he's had two major knee injuries?

I would argue that in the recent past DeMarcus Lawrence was the Cowboys' defensive leader, but watching this year's defense, I cannot definitively say who the leader is now. I'm not suggesting there isn't anyone stepping up, but who is the voice, or voices, of the defense that everyone listens to?

Like many other fans, I was hoping the Cowboys would give Brandon Aubrey a shot at kicking a 67-yard field goal to break the NFL record. It was late in a game that was already well in hand, so why not? Are we that worried about hurting the other team's feelings? 

Would it be smart to give George Pickens a contract extension now? My fear is that after a big year he'll get a big contract once he becomes a free agent at the end of the season. He and CeeDee Lamb could be a dynamic duo for years to come.

Do you think that history can repeat itself when comparing the current team to Jimmy Johnson's first years with the Cowboys? This team is not that good right now, but Dallas has a good amount of draft capital, just like Jimmy did. Plus, look how hard these guys play for Brian Schottenheimer, just as they did for Jimmy.

I understand scheme can be a major part of any defense, which falls under the coaches. However, when do the defensive players actually step up and say, "We don't want to be in last place. Let's do something different." I think the players need to speak up to put themselves in better positions to make plays. 

Is it safe to say that after this loss to Carolina, trading any draft capital in the attempt to improve this defense is a bad decision? This is not a one player fix. Your thoughts? 

I'm curious what you think about Dak Prescott and his "championship window." Meaning, how long do the Cowboys have to ride Prescott while he's still playing at an elite level? He's 32 and has had several major injuries. I'm concerned that his decline will be coming sooner rather than later, and the Cowboys will once again have wasted the prime of an elite player. 

Having seen improvements on defense the last two weeks, the question becomes, is this a "pick your poison" situation? Defend the pass or stop the run?