COWBOYS MIDSEASON GRADES DEFENSE LEADS THE WAY AS DALLAS EARNS NEAR-PERFECT MARKS THROUGH FIRST EIGHT GAMES

The have exceeded every expectation since losing their season opener 19-3 against the . Their defense showed signs that they could be the dominant, Micah Parsons-powered dynamo that they have become, but the offense turning things around largely behind unproven backup quarterback for five games while healed from his fractured right thumb is downrig

The placing on the reserve/Physically Unable to Perform list at the Aug. 29 roster cutdown because of the surgically repaired right ankle he injured last season put a pause on the drama that unfolded between the parties during the preseason. By going on reserve/PUP, Taylor was required to mi s a minimum of four games.Taylor, who is in the final yea