The Dallas Cowboys rollercoaster is on an upswing going into their Week 6 matchup against the Carolina Panthers. Just how steep the incline can go before descending is the question on everyone’s mind this week. If they want to avoid a steep plunge, they’ll need to follow these keys to victory. 

Don’t Let the Panthers Hang Around

Carolina is an odd team. They have both big wins, such as a 30-0 against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 3, as well big losses such as 42-13 loss to the New England Patriots in Week 4 and a 26-10 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars in the season opener. Their other two games have been decided by a combined eight points. 

Their in-game swings are dramatic as well. They have a -53 point differential in the first half of games, including a -46 differential in the second quarter. However, they have a +36 differential in the second half that includes a +31 mark in the fourth quarter of games. 

Last week against the New York Jets, Dallas let their foot off the gas and allowed two late garbage time touchdowns. Yes, it was with a 20+ point lead, but it did show some weak spots. 

If they want to avoid a possible late comeback, such as the one the Panthers pulled off against the Miami Dolphins last week, or even a late but failed push like the one Carolina had against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 2, the Cowboys will need to be all gas, no breaks. 

Take Away Tetairoa McMillan

The eight overall pick in this last draft and a rumored target for the Cowboys in the first round, McMillan has been exceptional to start his career. Through five games, he’s recorded 24 catches on 43 targets for 351 yards, a 70.2 yard per game average. 

Considering the state of quarterback play in Charlotte, those numbers are very impressive. Even more so when realizing that he’s received no help from the rest of the Panthers’ pass catchers. 

The next closest Panther in terms of receptions is Hunter Renfrow (yes, that Hunter Renfrow) with 14. Next closest in receiving yards? Brycen Tremayne, with 26 of those coming on one of his nine catches. 

All this is to say that, if the Cowboys can limit McMillan, it could be a long day for Bryce Young and a field day for the Dallas defense. 

Continue to Work Jaydon Blue into the Offense

Making his long awaited debut last week, rookie running back Jaydon Blue was fairly unspectacular while recording 7 yards on four carries. In fairness to Blue, he was met in the backfield on two of those carries and had no room on a third. 

His one flash was on a 6-yard scamper where he showed the short area quickness and initial burst that made him such an intriguing prospect. While Javonte Williams has been a revelation this year, getting a more explosive compliment than Miles Sanders going would add yet another dimension to a potent Dallas offense.