The Cowboys are staring down a Week 4 clash that feels like an absolute must-win, despite it being so early in the season. Sitting at a disappointing 1-2, third in their division, a win against the Houston Texans isn’t just about pride, it’s about seizing some much-needed momentum and making up critical ground while the Eagles, Giants, and Commanders battle it out in their own matchups. But let me tell you, getting that win is gonna come down to one brutal, make-or-break matchup on the field.
The Monster Mismatch That Could Wreck Everything
Look, the Texans defense might be struggling overall, ranked 19th in EPA/play, but don’t let that fool you for a second. Their pass rush? It’s elite. We’re talking top-tier, game-wrecking talent, and it starts with Will Anderson. This dude isn’t just good, he’s playing like the best defensive end in the entire National Football League right now. He’s absolutely dominating, ranking in the top 10 for both pass rush win rate and run stop win rate. Anderson moves around, sure, but through three games, he’s been primarily on the left side of the defense. You know what that means, right? He’s going head-to-head with Terence Steele for a majority of his snaps. That’s a major mismatch for the Cowboys’ offense, and it’s the kind of battle that can decide the game.
And if you think focusing on Anderson means an easier time elsewhere, think again. His running mate, Danielle Hunter, is no slouch. He’s gonna be lining up across from Tyler Guyton, and Hunter is just as capable of changing games as a pass rusher and run defender as Anderson is. Even with the Texans rocking an 0-3 record and a slower start defensively, these two have completely wrecked games in 2026. We’re talking about guys who play around 80% of defensive snaps. Oh, and keep an eye out for old friend Jadaveon Clowney, who’s been flashing a similar skillset to his 2025 Cowboys stint, though he’s questionable for Sunday. The Cowboys’ offensive tackles are the hinge here, just like in Week 1 against the Giants. Steele and Guyton have to step up or this whole thing goes sideways.
How Dallas Plans to Survive the Texans’ Edge Rushers
So, what’s the plan to counter these absolute monsters up front? The Cowboys know they can’t just let Anderson and Hunter dictate the game. The strategy has to be all about wearing them down with long, sustained drives and staying out of those killer third-and-long situations. We’re gonna see the ball come out quick on early downs, that’s almost a guarantee. When they do decide to take a shot downfield, or when they inevitably find themselves in a third-and-long, expect them to allocate extra men to protection. That means limiting their pass catchers, but it’s a necessary sacrifice if they want to give Dak Prescott any time at all.
This isn’t just about the pass rush, though. The Texans’ run defense has been stout through the first three weeks. So, while they want to run the ball and wear guys down, the Cowboys’ passing offense is probably gonna have to light it up for them to come out victorious in this monster in-state Week 4 matchup. This game isn’t just about getting a win; it’s about proving they can handle elite pressure, make critical adjustments, and keep their season from spiraling before October is even halfway done. This weekend isn’t just another game, it’s a gut check.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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