Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle runs with the ball while being tackled by Dallas Cowboys linebacker Shemar James. Cory Knowlton-Imagn Images

Cowboys' defense on pace for historic season for all the wrong reasons

Originally posted on Dallas Cowboys on SI | By Tyler Reed | Last updated Oct 13, 2025 4:23 PM ET

The Dallas Cowboys had a forgettable Week 6 in their loss to the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. The offense looked the part, but just like every week this season, the defense looked lost.

Once again, the Cowboys' defense gave up over 400 yards of offense to the opposition. However, this time, it was to a struggling offensive unit like the Panthers.

If this team has any chance of being a postseason threat, they will need to show signs of life on the defensive side. Unfortunately, the defense is on pace to make history for all the wrong reasons.

According to Stathead, the 2025 Cowboys defensive unit has given up 2,470 yards through the first six games of the season. That is the most given up in franchise history, as it is 10 more yards than the 2020 team.

Cory Knowlton-Imagn Images

The 2020 Cowboys defense was led by coordinator Mike Nolan, and was a team that finished with a disappointing 6-10 record.

The 2025 version of the Cowboys is better than 6-10, at least the offense is. It's beyond frustrating to see an offense that is playing lights out, while the defense looks completely lost.

It can't be denied, this team isn't going to solve all the defensive issues this season. However, there has to be a way to stop the bleeding before it is too late.