Cowboys need a formula to help struggling run defense

The Dallas Cowboys head into the bye week sitting at 6-2, primarily due to the play on the defensive side of the ball.

Although the team’s biggest strength, one problem Dan Quinn needs to try and clean up with this unit is defending the run. After eight weeks, the Cowboys have given up the seventh most rushing yards this season with 1,081.

The Bears No. 1 rushing attack had its way on the ground Sunday, but the offense picked up the defense for one of the first times this season.

Dallas allowed 240 yards rushing and surrendered 29 points on the scoreboard, the most the defense has given up all season, primarily due to the inability to stop the run.

Khalil Herbert was their leading rusher with 99, Justin Fields had 60, and David Montgomery chipped in with 53. They also got 33 from Velus Jones Jr.

We all understand how dominant this defense is, but the Cowboys will have to find a formula to help defend the massive outburst from teams on the ground, or at some point, it will cost them late in games.

The Cowboys have allowed at least 117 yards on the ground in six of their eight games.