Marshawn Kneeland makes an impact as Cowboys’ pass rush pressures Eagles in strong Week 1 showing
The Dallas Cowboys’ defensive line made headlines in Week 1, showcasing an impressive performance despite a modest sack total. Defensive end Marshawn Kneeland was the standout player, registering the only sack against Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, but the team’s overall effectiveness in pressuring the passer was undeniable.
Dominance Beyond the Stats
Thursday night marked the Cowboys’ first game after trading away star pass rusher Micah Parsons, a move that raised questions about their ability to maintain defensive intensity. Though the stat sheet may suggest otherwise—with just one sack recorded—the pressure Dallas applied was formidable. Kneeland’s sack was a highlight, yet it was the relentless pursuit of the Eagles’ quarterback that truly defined the night.
A deeper look into the performance reveals that the Cowboys were able to pressure Hurts on a significant number of dropbacks. According to analysis from @The33rdTeamFB, Dallas generated pressure on 42.4% of Hurts’ dropbacks, making them the second-best team in Week 1, just behind the Pittsburgh Steelers, who managed 44%.
Pressure Rankings
The pressure statistics from Week 1 are telling:
Pittsburgh Steelers: 44%
Dallas Cowboys: 42.4%
Washington Commanders: 42.2%
Atlanta Falcons: 40.5%
Denver Broncos: 40%
This data underscores Dallas’s effectiveness in getting after the quarterback, reinforcing the notion that while the Cowboys may have lost a key player in Parsons, their defensive line remains a potent force.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, the Cowboys will look to build on this strong start, leveraging their ability to create pressure as a cornerstone of their defensive strategy. With athletes like Kneeland stepping up, Dallas aims to maintain its status as one of the most formidable defenses in the league.
