The Cowboys return home after a challenging defeat on the road against the Denver Broncos, with a score of 44-24. They remain undefeated at home (2-0). Can they maintain this impressive record? Here are three strategies to help them keep this streak going.

Generate pressure

With the possible return of Kyler Murray after suffering a mild foot sprain in Week 5, the Allen, Texas native will look to continue his success against his hometown Cowboys, holding a 2–0 record against them so far. One of the best ways for Dallas to finally break that streak will be to generate consistent pressure on Murray.

The Cowboys’ defense has been terribly inconsistent this season, but they’ve shown flashes of strength in their pressure metrics. According to ESPN, they currently rank 19th in pass rush win rate (37%) and 6th in run stop win rate (32%) — respectable numbers that suggest they can disrupt opposing offenses when everything falls into place.

One player who could be a key difference-maker is James Houston. The underrated part-time edge rusher has quietly produced 12 tackles (10 solo), 3.5 sacks and a forced fumble while posting a 14.8% pass rush win rate, which is above the league average. Houston could serve as the designated spy on Murray — a role that plays to his athleticism and discipline. By keeping Murray contained while the interior defensive tackles collapse the pocket, the Cowboys could make life very difficult for the Cardinals’ quarterback. If that formula works, Murray might be in for a long afternoon in Arlington.

Getting back to the passing game

Outside of their sack leader, Josh Sweat — who has 5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles and ranks second in the NFL in that category — the Cardinals don’t have a true standout presence in the trenches. The Cowboys’ offensive line, meanwhile, has been a steady and reliable unit throughout the season.

Suppose they can continue to give Dak Prescott a clean pocket. In that case, he’ll have the time to spread the ball around to his talented receiving corps — headlined by the dynamic WR duo of CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, along with reliable tight end Jake Ferguson, who’s proven to be a dependable safety valve in the passing game. A strong performance from the offensive line could tilt the matchup in Dallas’s favor, especially if Prescott can get into rhythm early and neutralize Arizona’s limited pass rush.

Run the ball to set up the pass.

The Cardinals’ run defense currently ranks 12th in the NFL, allowing an average of 100.9 rushing yards per game. While that’s a respectable mark, it’s worth noting that Arizona has allowed a rushing touchdown in every game since Week 4 — a sign that opponents have been able to finish drives on the ground.

That shouldn’t deter the Cowboys from leaning on their top running back, Javonte Williams, who’s been the engine of their ground game. Williams brings a blend of power and physicality, forcing linebackers to stay disciplined against his bruising run style. He currently ranks 4th in the league in rushing yards (633) and 3rd in rushing touchdowns (8).

If Dallas can establish the run early and design plays that maximize Williams’ strengths — such as inside zone and power runs — it could open up the play-action game for Prescott. Successfully setting that balance between run and pass would give the Cowboys a much better chance to secure the win.