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Dallas Finally Admits the Harsh Reality Behind Matt Eberflus After Shock Trade Shake-Up

The Cowboys’ latest trade didn’t just shake up the roster — it exposed an uncomfortable truth in Dallas: the problems run deeper than Matt Eberflus, even as the move also signals a surprising vote of confidence in the much-criticized defensive coach.

There’s no sugarcoating it: the Cowboys’ defense has been a major disappointment this season, and Eberflus has taken the brunt of the backlash. His slow tactical adjustments — limited pressure packages, conservative coverage choices, and questionable personnel usage — have left fans frustrated. Decisions like keeping Donovan Wilson deep or waiting too long to deploy players such as Donovan Ezeiruaku and Jadeveon Clowney have only added fuel to the criticism.

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But looking closer, it’s clear Eberflus still hasn’t been handed a legitimate, fully armed defensive roster. Dallas’ defensive personnel has been shaky from the start: Kaiir Elam, Trikweze Bridges, Kenneth Murray, Jay Toia — none have consistently delivered. Even Mazi Smith, who was traded away in the Quinnen Williams deal, had yet to establish himself. In short, Eberflus has been trying to run a system with too many pieces that simply don’t fit.

And that’s why the front office’s recent moves matter. Trading for Quinnen Williams — one of the best interior defensive linemen in the league — and adding a seasoned linebacker like Logan Wilson are not “panic buys.” They are long-term investments, signaling that Dallas doesn’t want to scrap the project entirely. It’s a message: with the right personnel, they believe Eberflus can still be the guy.

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Even Jerry Jones has acknowledged past mistakes. The constant coordinator changes — Dan Quinn to Mike Zimmer to Matt Eberflus — have destabilized the defense and stunted its identity. “Continuity — I know better,” Jones admitted on radio, hinting that he finally intends to give Eberflus the runway he’s never truly had.

There are eight games left — and they will decide everything. If the defense collapses, a change remains on the table. But if things hold together even reasonably well, Eberflus has a real shot at returning in 2026.

And that might not be a bad thing. With Williams anchoring the interior, Wilson steadying the second level, and Eberflus finally having the personnel to match his scheme, we could see a Dallas defense that’s faster, tougher, and far more coherent.

Fans may be tired of waiting. But if stability and upgraded talent finally align, the payoff could be a defense worthy of the Cowboys' ambitions.

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Josh Allen Goes Nuclear: 6 TDs In 44-32 Revenge Demolition Of Bucs
ORCHARD PARK, NY: November 16, 2025 A week ago, Josh Allen was heavily criticized after 3 turnovers in a humiliating 13-30 loss to the Dolphins. Today, he answered with one of the most explosive performances of his career: 6 touchdowns (3 passing, 3 rushing) in a 44-32 victory over Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This wasn't just a win. This was a statement. Josh Allen: From "Culprit" to "Destroyer" After the Dolphins game, the narrative centered on: "Is Josh Allen still a franchise QB?" Today, he answered with 6 touchdowns, totaling 37 points in just 42 offensive plays, a performance Sports Illustrated called "exploded for a six-touchdown performance".​ Key big plays: TD #1: Allen finds James Cook with a 25-yard pass, Cook runs straight to end zone.​ TD #2: Ty Johnson catches from Allen, runs untouched 52 yards in perfect play-action.​ TD #3-5: Allen rushes into end zone 3 times himself, including a 2-yard goal-line TD showing ultimate determination.​ TD #6: Keon Coleman, who Allen "shaded" last week with "He got one today, so yeah", today got the ball and immediately created a 42-yard TD for Mack Hollins. A Shootout Not For The Faint Of Heart This wasn't a game any defense controlled. Tampa Bay responded strongly with 32 points, Baker Mayfield also had his own rushing TD, and the game became a constant scoring chase.​ At halftime: Bills led 21-20, a thin margin.​ Third quarter: Bills exploded, creating decisive separation through consecutive big plays. Final: Bills won 44-32, a convincing victory despite defense allowing 32 points.​ X-Factors: Mecole Hardman & Special Teams A rarely mentioned but crucial factor: Mecole Hardman with a 60-yard kick return right after Bucs scored a field goal, setting Bills up with excellent field position for the next drive.​ This is the "hidden yardage" we warned about in the preview: in balanced games, special teams is the difference. And Hardman proved it. Defense: The Only Minus Allowing 32 points against a Bucs offense missing Chris Godwin and Bucky Irving isn't a good sign. Bills defense still hasn't reached "elite" status, and this is a concern when facing stronger offenses like Chiefs or Ravens in playoffs.​ But in the context of a "bounce-back game" after the Dolphins disaster, the offense scoring 44 points was enough to cover this weakness. Meaning Of The Victory For Josh Allen: From "washed" to "MVP candidate" again in just 7 days. This performance proves he's still one of the most dangerous QBs in the NFL when well protected and in rhythm.​ For Bills (7-3): Back to top 3 AFC, only behind Chiefs (9-1) with a chance to compete for #2 seed if winning crucial upcoming games. For Bills Mafia: After a dark week full of doubt, this victory is the perfect morale boost. "Circle the wagons" isn't just a slogan—it's a reminder: never underestimate Bills when they're angry. Final Word Bills 44, Bucs 32 wasn't just a playoff race victory. This was a statement game: Josh Allen is still elite, Bills offense is still dangerous, and anyone who thought one Dolphins loss could define this season was mistaken. As the Dolphins learned last week: never wake a sleeping monster. And this week, Tampa Bay paid the price. Next up: Bills vs. Chiefs, Sunday Night Football. The real test begins now. 🦬⚡ This is Bills Mafia. This is Josh Allen. And we're just getting started.