Mailbag: How difficult is upcoming stretch?

I think what we saw in Las Vegas is what we all envisioned the Cowboys to be. But when does the defense become legitimate? Is it already, or will they have to handle business against Philadelphia, Kansas City and Detroit before can we believe them to be legit?

Regarding CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens being benched to start the game in Las Vegas, part of me is happy that head coach Brian Schottenheimer disciplined two players, no matter their star power. But on the other hand, it's disappointing that two star players even needed discipline, especially coming off a difficult week. What are your thoughts on the situation? 

As they enter the second (and tougher) half of the schedule, the Cowboys face long odds to make the playoffs. So with that in mind, what would you like to see over these last eight games? What could make Brian Schottenheimer's first season as head coach a success?

With new faces and players returning from injury, how long do you think it will take to put all the pieces together and really see what this defense is capable of?

Head coach Brian Schottenheimer said there would be big changes coming during the bye week. They've added new players and some will be returning from injury, but are there other changes we might see as far as schemes or decision making? 

After the heartbreaking news of teammate Marshawn Kneeland, can the Cowboys players find a way to move forward from this tragic event? 

Is the offense finally feeling the pressure of having to be perfect every game? Have teams simply figured out what Brian Schottenheimer and Klayton Adams are scheming? How do you explain the sudden struggles on that side of the ball? 

I love the trade for Quinnen Williams, but can he and Logan Wilson do enough to significantly turn this season around? Or because the hole is now so deep, were these moves made with next season in mind?

Does the outcome of Monday night's game against the Cardinals change what the Cowboys might do at the trade deadline on Tuesday? If they win, are they buyers? If they lose, are they sellers?

Keeping in the spirit of Halloween, what has been a treat for you so far this season, maybe a player who has been an unexpected surprise? Likewise, where do you feel tricked? A case where you thought we'd see more? 

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?