The Dallas Cowboys secured a convincing 33-16 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders on November 20, 2023. While much of the spotlight went to the offense led by quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver George Pickens, the defensive unit also made a significant impact on the game.
In a performance highlighted by pressure and intensity, the Cowboys defense pressured Raiders quarterback Geno Smith on 16 of his 49 dropbacks, according to data from ESPN Research. Remarkably, nine different defenders registered at least one pressure, showcasing the depth and strength of the Dallas defensive line.
Defensive Line Shines in Key Roles
The interior of the Cowboys defensive line proved dominant during the match, particularly through the efforts of defensive tackles Osa Odighizuwa and Quinnen Williams. Both players received the highest grades among interior defensive linemen for Week 11, as reported by Pro Football Focus. Odighizuwa was instrumental, recording three quarterback hits and securing his second sack of the season. This brings his total to seven quarterback hits in the last two games, a significant increase compared to the five he accumulated in his first eight appearances.
Odighizuwa, drafted in the third round in 2021, is currently in his fifth season in the NFL and is benefiting from a four-year, $80 million extension signed in March 2023. His recent performance indicates a crucial role in the Cowboys’ defensive strategy moving forward.
Williams, making his debut with the Cowboys after being acquired from the New York Jets in a high-profile trade earlier this month, also made an immediate impact. The 27-year-old former All-Pro generated seven total pressures, including five quarterback hits and 1.5 sacks. According to the Dallas Cowboys Public Relations Department, he is only the fourth player in franchise history to record at least 1.5 sacks in his first game with the team, excluding players during the 1987 strike.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, the Cowboys improved their record to 4–5–1 and are preparing to face the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, November 23, 2023. The game will take place at AT&T Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 4:25 PM ET (3:25 PM CT). This matchup presents a significant challenge as the Eagles currently hold a strong record of 8–2, setting the stage for a critical contest in the Cowboys’ pursuit of a playoff spot.
The recent performances by both Odighizuwa and Williams will be pivotal as the Cowboys aim to build momentum in the weeks to come.
