Cowboys vs. Cardinals: 5 Keys to Ending a Historically Bad NFL Run
The Dallas Cowboys are preparing for an important NFC showdown against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, November 1, 2026. Playing at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, Dallas will have an opportunity to improve its season record and end a frustrating run of losses against Arizona.
Despite entering the matchup with a 3-4 record, the Cowboys have plenty of offensive talent. Their biggest challenge will be maintaining consistency on both sides of the football.
Arizona arrives with a 2-5 record, but its recent history against Dallas makes this matchup particularly interesting. The Cardinals have won eight of their last nine meetings with the Cowboys, including four consecutive victories.
For Dallas, ending that trend will require more than a strong offensive performance. Here are five important keys that could determine the outcome.
1. Find a Way to Slow Down Trey McBride
One of Arizona's biggest offensive weapons is tight end Trey McBride.
McBride has been producing outstanding numbers this season, recording 59 receptions through the Cardinals' first seven games. His ability to create separation, catch passes in traffic, and move the chains makes him a major challenge for opposing defenses.
Dallas must find an effective defensive approach to limit his involvement.
The Cowboys could use different coverage looks, disciplined tackling, and defensive adjustments to prevent McBride from consistently finding open space.
If Dallas allows him to control the middle of the field, Arizona could maintain long offensive drives and put additional pressure on the Cowboys' defense.
2. Maintain a Balanced Offensive Attack
The Cowboys demonstrated what their offense can accomplish when the running and passing games work together.
During their recent 38-21 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas recorded 204 rushing yards. Running back Javonte Williams delivered a career-best performance with 155 rushing yards.
That performance highlighted the importance of establishing the running game early.
Against Arizona, Dallas should look to maintain that offensive balance rather than relying entirely on quarterback Dak Prescott.
A productive rushing attack could help control possession, create opportunities for play-action passes, and reduce pressure on the offensive line.
With receivers CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens available as major passing threats, Dallas has multiple ways to challenge Arizona's secondary.
3. Protect Dak Prescott Against Disguised Pressure
Another important challenge for Dallas will be handling Arizona's defensive pressure packages.
The Cardinals can use different defensive formations to create uncertainty before the snap. Safety Budda Baker is particularly dangerous because of his versatility and ability to line up in different positions.
Dak Prescott will need to recognize defensive adjustments quickly and make smart decisions.
The Cowboys' offensive line must also communicate effectively to prevent free defenders from reaching the quarterback.
Avoiding unnecessary negative plays will be particularly important. Long-yardage situations could give Arizona more opportunities to pressure Prescott.
If Dallas protects its quarterback and keeps the offense on schedule, its passing game could become much more effective.
4. Improve the Run Defense
Dallas has struggled to stop opposing rushing attacks throughout the 2026 season.
The Cowboys entered this matchup allowing approximately 145.7 rushing yards per game, ranking near the bottom of the NFL.
Arizona has also experienced difficulties establishing a consistent running game, averaging fewer than 100 rushing yards per game.
However, running back Bam Knight has shown that he can contribute effectively, averaging 5.8 yards per carry across his previous 22 attempts.
Dallas cannot afford to underestimate Arizona's rushing attack.
The defensive front must maintain its assignments, close running lanes, and prevent opposing backs from reaching the second level.
Improving against the run would also help Dallas create more predictable passing situations.
5. Finish Drives and Avoid Costly Mistakes
The final key could come down to execution in critical situations.
Dallas has demonstrated that its offense can produce significant yardage and points. However, maintaining that production throughout an entire game remains an important challenge.
The Cowboys must convert third downs, protect the football, and take advantage of opportunities inside the red zone.
Arizona has shown an ability to sustain long offensive possessions. The Cardinals entered the matchup leading the NFL with 21 drives of at least 10 plays, with 18 of those possessions ending in points.
That makes every possession important for Dallas.
Avoiding turnovers and limiting defensive penalties could help the Cowboys maintain control of the game.
Cowboys vs. Cardinals: Matchup Information
Date: Sunday, November 1, 2026
Matchup: Arizona Cardinals vs. Dallas Cowboys
Venue: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
Kickoff: 1:00 PM ET
TV Network: FOX
Arizona Record: 2-5
Dallas Record: 3-4
Dallas enters the matchup following a 38-21 win over Philadelphia, while Arizona is looking to respond after a 30-16 loss to Denver.
Can Dallas Finally Change the Narrative?
The Cowboys have an opportunity to make an important statement against a familiar opponent.
Their recent history against Arizona has not been encouraging, but previous results do not determine what happens on the field.
Containing Trey McBride, establishing the running game, protecting Dak Prescott, improving run defense, and finishing offensive possessions will all be essential.
For Dallas, this matchup represents an opportunity to demonstrate greater consistency and move closer to an even season record.
The biggest question remains: Can the Cowboys finally overcome their recent struggles against the Cardinals and deliver a complete performance at home?
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