The New Orleans Saints are preparing for their first road challenge of the season as they travel to face the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday. The Cowboys are coming off an impressive 33-17 victory against the Cleveland Browns, while the Saints delivered an equally dominant 47-10 win over the Carolina Panthers. Both teams are aiming to build off these wins, but for the Saints, stopping the Cowboys’ balanced offense will be crucial.
One of the main areas of concern for New Orleans over the past two seasons has been their run defense. In 2022, the Saints ranked 24th in rushing defense and only slightly improved to 22nd last season, allowing over 125 rushing yards per game and 4.5 yards per carry. However, in Week 1, they showed significant improvement, holding the Panthers to just 58 rushing yards and 2.9 yards per carry, the best numbers in the NFL during the season’s opening week. This was largely thanks to stellar performances from defensive tackles Nathan Shepherd and Bryan Bresee, who consistently disrupted Carolina’s backfield. With Khalen Saunders sidelined, depth could be an issue, but the rookie Khristian Boyd and veteran Kendal Vickers stepped up as quality rotational players.
Bresee is expected to build on his strong rookie campaign, while Shepherd continues to be a key force in the trenches, despite often flying under the radar. Defensive end Cameron Jordan is known for his pass-rushing prowess but is also an elite run-stopper on the edge. Carl Granderson has developed into a reliable run defender, and with Payton Turner contributing when healthy, the Saints’ front seven looks solid.
The Saints also boast one of the most dynamic and versatile linebacker corps in the league. Demario Davis remains a top-tier all-around defender, excelling in both run-stopping and pass coverage. Pete Werner, although quiet in Week 1, is a consistent presence in the run defense. Willie Gay Jr.’s availability is in question due to a back injury, but even if Gay is limited or out, the Saints’ linebacker duo of Davis and Werner should hold up against the Cowboys’ run game.
The Saints’ secondary is also known for its aggressiveness against the run. Corners Marshon Lattimore and Paulson Adebo are not only strong in coverage but also willing to contribute to run defense. Alontae Taylor, who had an impressive three-sack performance against Panthers’ QB Bryce Young in Week 1, adds versatility to the defense and is effective as both a slot corner and in run support. Safeties Jordan Howden and Tyrann Mathieu can be deployed near the line of scrimmage to assist against the run, with Mathieu’s experience and awareness making him a valuable asset.
On the other side, the Cowboys’ rushing attack has been solid but unspectacular in recent years. Rico Dowdle, who rushed for 361 yards last season, leads the returning running backs, while Ezekiel Elliott has been brought back after a one-year absence. Although Elliott is no longer the dominant force he once was, he remains a tough, physical runner. Elliott and Dowdle combined for 66 yards against the Browns in Week 1, and Dallas has added veteran Dalvin Cook to the mix, though he did not play in the opener.
Dallas has also made significant investments in their offensive line, drafting Tyler Guyton in the first round and Cooper Beebe in the third to bolster their front. With Zack Martin anchoring the right guard position, the Cowboys’ line looks solid but may have some vulnerability at right tackle with Terence Steele.
While the Cowboys’ passing game will be their primary weapon this season, an effective rushing attack will help set up big plays for QB Dak Prescott and wide receivers CeeDee Lamb and Brandin Cooks. However, the Saints’ defense will aim to disrupt this balance by shutting down the run, allowing them to focus on containing Prescott and his receiving corps.
Ultimately, the key to the Saints’ defensive success in Week 2 will be stopping the Cowboys’ run game. If they can neutralize Dallas’ rushing attack, they will be able to put more pressure on Prescott and force the Cowboys into a one-dimensional offense. Strong play from the defensive line, continued dominance from the linebackers, and aggressive support from the secondary will be essential for New Orleans to come away with a road victory and maintain momentum in the early part of the season.
