3 Secrets the Cowboys Must Unlock to Crush the Raiders in Week 11 — Matt Eberflus Drops a Bombshell

Matt Eberflus and the Dallas Cowboys are preparing to face the Raiders in Week 11. Here are three critical keys to victory — including an upgraded defense, a smarter Dak Prescott, and a turnover-driven mindset that could define their season.

1. Relentless Pressure — Make the Raiders Feel It Early

If the Cowboys want to win, they have to attack — not react.
Defensive Coordinator Matt Eberflus confirmed that Dallas will unleash new pressure packages featuring simulated blitz looks designed to confuse the Raiders’ protection schemes.

“When you make the quarterback guess wrong in the first two seconds, you’ve already won half the play,” Eberflus said confidently.

Dallas plans to rotate its front-seven personnel to stay fresh and fast through all four quarters. If they can dominate the middle of the field and force Las Vegas into long third-down situations, the Cowboys can take control early.

2. Dak Prescott Must Control the Tempo

While defense sets the tone, Dak Prescott will need to manage the rhythm of the offense.
The Cowboys plan to use quick passes, short reads, and balanced run plays to slow down the Raiders’ pass rush and keep their own defense rested.

Running backs Tony Pollard and Rico Dowdle could be vital in maintaining offensive balance, opening up play-action opportunities for Dak.

“It’s not about throwing deep — it’s about knowing when to strike and when to protect the drive,” a Cowboys assistant coach told reporters.

When Dallas dominates time of possession, the Raiders lose their offensive rhythm — and that’s exactly what Eberflus wants.

3. Turnovers Will Decide Everything

No factor defines the Cowboys’ success more than turnovers.
Eberflus expects his defense to bait the Raiders into mistakes using disguised coverages and trap concepts downfield.

The numbers back it up: Dallas averages 2.0 turnovers per game in wins, but just 0.7 in losses. Forcing takeaways isn’t optional — it’s the difference between playoff contenders and pretenders.

“We’re not just trying to stop them,” Eberflus said. “We’re taking the ball, controlling the field, and forcing them to chase us.”

The Showdown That Could Define the Season

The Dallas Cowboys vs Las Vegas Raiders matchup at Allegiant Stadium this Sunday isn’t just another game — it’s a statement of intent.

Eberflus is turning the Cowboys’ defense into a storm. Dak Prescott is regaining his composure. And if both units click this weekend, Dallas won’t just beat the Raiders — they’ll send a message to the entire NFL that the Cowboys are back and dangerous.