Cowboys Routed 44-24; Jones Reluctant to Trade

The Dallas Cowboys were routed 44-24 by the Denver Broncos, falling to 3–4–1 and exposing a defense that ranks last in EPA/play and near the bottom vs. the run and pass amid injuries and personnel losses. Brian Schottenheimer publicly admitted the coaching and effort were unacceptable, promised staff and player evaluations, and said discipline, schematic and personnel adjustments are likely after the upcoming bye. A conservative punt on 4th-and-6 led to an 84-yard Broncos touchdown drive that essentially sealed the game, and Dak Prescott threw two interceptions in a season-worst outing. Owner Jerry Jones said immediate corrections “have got to be from within, not from without,” signaling reluctance to trade for outside help before the deadline. With two winnable games (Arizona, Las Vegas) before a brutal stretch against Philadelphia, Kansas City and Detroit, analysts warn Dallas’ offense may not be enough without multiple defensive upgrades or clear corrective measures.