The Dallas Cowboys improved to 2–2–1 after a 37–22 win over the New York Jets. Here are four takeaways and four risks that highlight where Dallas excelled and where they must still improve

A Statement Win with Substance and Flaws

The Dallas Cowboys delivered their most complete performance of the season in a 37–22 victory over the New York Jets. It was the bounce-back effort the team needed after a roller-coaster September — and they did it while short-handed.

Dallas improved to 2–2–1 behind a near-perfect day from Dak Prescott, who threw four touchdown passes, and a breakout performance from Javonte Williams, who exploded for 135 total yards and two scores.

The Cowboys dominated both lines of scrimmage, built a 30–10 lead by halftime, and never looked back.

Still, the game revealed a few issues that could resurface if not corrected. Here are the four biggest takeaways and four critical risks from Dallas’ Week 5 win.

4 Takeaways from the 37–22 Victory

1. “Next Man Up” Mentality Defined the Win

Dallas entered the game without four starting offensive linemen — Tyler Smith, Tyler Guyton, Cooper Beebe, and Tyler Booker — plus wideouts CeeDee Lamb and KaVontae Turpin. Yet the offense never slowed down.

Backup linemen stepped up, protecting Prescott and opening running lanes. Rookie Ryan Flournoy made the most of his opportunity, hauling in over 100 receiving yards and emerging as a legitimate downfield weapon.

That adaptability and depth are what championship-caliber rosters are built on.

2. The Pass Rush Finally Came Alive

After struggling to generate consistent pressure in September, the Cowboys’ defensive front responded with five sacks of Jets quarterback Justin Fields.

Edge rusher James Houston led the way, consistently winning one-on-one matchups and forcing hurried throws.

This was the kind of disruptive energy Dallas has been searching for — collapsing the pocket, setting the edge, and forcing turnovers. When the front seven plays with that urgency, the entire defense feeds off it.

3. Javonte Williams Was the Spark

Running back Javonte Williams stole the show, finishing with 135 rushing yards, a touchdown on the ground, and another through the air.

His 66-yard sprint before halftime broke the game open and showcased the burst and balance that made him the focal point of the Cowboys’ backfield.

Williams’ combination of power and agility gives Dallas the home-run ability it’s lacked since Tony Pollard’s breakout 2022 season.

4. Turnovers and Timing Flipped the Game

The Cowboys forced a crucial Breece Hall fumble midway through the second quarter, setting up a 16-point swing in just 42 seconds. That momentum shift defined the afternoon.

It wasn’t just about taking the ball away — Dallas capitalized immediately, converting turnovers into touchdowns. That situational execution is a hallmark of good teams turning into great ones.

4 Risks Dallas Must Fix Moving Forward

1. Sustaining Defensive Pressure and Focus

The defense looked dominant against New York, but consistency remains the challenge. There were still moments when communication broke down and missed tackles allowed drives to extend.

The secondary, led by Trevon Diggs, Reddy Steward, and Juanyeh Thomas, held its own despite injuries. Still, Dallas must continue improving in situational coverage — especially on third downs and crossing routes.

This was a step forward, but maintaining that standard week after week will determine how far the defense can take them.

2. Offensive Line Depth Still a Concern

Winning with four backup linemen was remarkable — but it’s not sustainable forever. Chemistry and fatigue become real factors over time, especially against elite defensive fronts.

The group’s performance deserves credit, but the Cowboys will need to manage rotations carefully and continue finding ways to protect Prescott and create movement in the run game until their starters return.

3. Penalties and Mental Errors Remain a Problem

The Cowboys were flagged frequently, with 21 total penalties between both teams — too many for a contender—false starts, holding calls, and defensive infractions extended drives and wiped out big gains.

These mistakes didn’t hurt them against the winless Jets, but they will against playoff-caliber opponents. Cleaning up the discipline will be essential if Dallas wants to transform potential into production.

4. Maintaining Offensive Balance

This was Dallas’ most balanced offensive showing of 2025 — mixing the power run game with quick-strike passes and creative motion. The key will be sustaining it.

Jake Ferguson continues to emerge as a go-to target in critical downs, while Ryan Flournoy has proven reliable in high-pressure moments. Keeping defenses guessing and maintaining tempo will be vital as tougher opponents loom.

Sustainability is Key

The Cowboys’ 37–22 victory over the Jets was a needed statement win — one that reestablished their offensive rhythm and defensive bite.

To keep that momentum rolling, Dallas must tighten discipline, stay healthy in the trenches, and deliver that same intensity every week.

At 2–2–1, the Cowboys are trending upward. If they can pair their Week 5 execution with sustained focus and clean football, they’ll be right back in the NFC playoff picture before long.