Home/Articles/NFL
NFL·ANALYSIS·October 22, 2026 12:09 PM ET

Cowboys' Dak Prescott throws over 60% of passes short across two-game stretch

Trend comes with Dallas at 2-3 entering Sunday's home game

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 50m1 min read
Post on X
The vertical passing game and run game must be emphasized for the offense to succeed. Via @WerderEdNFL on X

What happened: Passes targeting the zero-to-nine air-yard range have made up the majority of Dak Prescott's attempts over his last two outings. NFL reporter Ed Werder stated that the Dallas Cowboys must emphasize the vertical passing game and the ground attack for the offense to succeed.

Why it matters: Relying heavily on underneath throws narrows the margin for error alongside a Dallas defense that surrendered 419 total yards and 24 points in Week 5. Generating chunk plays downfield and sustaining rushing drives is pivotal while the front office plans to buy ahead of the Nov. 10 trade deadline.

By the numbers: Prescott threw 61.9% of his passes within nine air yards in Week 5 and cleared 63% in the other contest during the two-game span.

What to watch: The Cowboys play at home on Sunday looking to open up the downfield passing attack and establish offensive balance.

Sources

CONVERSATION
Loading comments…
NFLAnalysisDallas CowboysDak Prescott
Follow NFL Intelligence
Real-time signals and analysis
@WireReportNFL
WR Pro
The day's sports, briefed to your inbox at 7am ET. Every claim sourced.
$9/monthFree weekly newsletter →
RELATED STORIES
← Back to Wire Report