EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. - Dabs' Digest, our weekly interview with head coach Brian Daboll:
Q: You've talked a lot about the process when you're building a new program. Do the players buy into the process more easily when you're winning?
Daboll: "Probably. We live in such a results-oriented profession. But I'd like to think that what we do and how we prepare and how we practice has resonated with them. How we structure our practice time, the amount of time we allow for treatment, taking care of their bodies, the way we meet, it's all encompassing – the time we give them between the last meeting and a practice. We're always adjusting certain things. But they understand how important it is to put a good product out there on Sunday. Ultimately, it's how you play the game on Sunday. But I'd say there's truth to that probably in any profession."
Q: Monday night, you will host Dallas in your first NFC East game. Are you different with the players before a division game?
Daboll: "I think everybody understands the importance of division games. The most important thing – whether it's a Monday night, a Sunday night game, a Thursday night game, we play home, we play on the road, we play in London – the biggest thing for us is preparing for the game and then playing well, executing when your number is called upon. I think you can acknowledge it's a Monday night game, it's a division game. But everything comes back to us and how we do our stuff."
Q: You've scored six first-half points on two field goals. When that happens, a coach is often asked, 'Can you hurry up the offense" as if that guarantees improvement. When you're starting slow and early scoring is an issue, how do you approach and attack that?
Daboll: "With consistency. You owe the players composure. You'd like to score every time you touch the ball in the National Football League. I mean, that's the goal of an offense. I don't know what the percentage is of scoring touchdowns and how many drives you have. But you look at every area throughout the week, and the coaches do due diligence on how they want to open up the game and how we want to open up the game. And it comes down to execution. You don't make more out of it than it is."
Q: You had two scoring opportunities with good field position after early fumble recoveries in the victory against Carolina on Sunday. Each time, you settled for field goals. After the second one, you looked a little agitated. Is it hard not to feel frustration on the sideline when that happens?
Daboll: "I wasn't agitated necessarily at the result. It was what led up to the result. There were a few minor mistakes in there and because of those things, you can't worry about the field goal. You have to focus on the things that caused the outcome. The outcome is the outcome. It's just like getting ready for a week, and you talk about preparation and practice. In the game, it's doing the basic things properly or the things you need to get fixed. That's all you're doing in between series. Whether it's the first series, the eighth series, it really doesn't matter."
Q: In the first half, Daniel (Jones) threw 17 passes, and you ran the ball eight times for zero yards. A lot of people were probably thinking you would keep slinging it. In the second half, you again threw 17 passes, but also had 25 rushing attempts. Are you a big believer in continuing to run the ball even if it's not working early?
Daboll: "I still think we're figuring out our football team. I think you try to call plays as a play caller that are going to work. And if something's not working, you have eight runs for zero yards. It's hard to keep calling runs."
Q: But you did.
Daboll: "We did. Every situation is different. Look at the game, how the game went. How many third downs were in the first half (three)? How many were in the second half (15)? Or in a four-minute drive at the end of the game, there's more runs. Everybody talks about rushing attempts. There's a feel in the game, a part of the game where you get up – whatever the score is – a lot of times those teams that win are running the ball out at the end of the game. So, it's run after run after run after run. Was that like that in the first half? I don't think you just have to keep banging your head on something just to bang your head on something. And again, we have a pretty good (running) back, so as on offense or a play caller, you still want to give him opportunities unless the game gets away from you. That was a tightly contested game. And (we) certainly didn't want to take the ball out of 26's (running back Saquon Barkley) hands just because we had a few bad plays in there."
View rare photos from the historic rivalry between the New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys.
Dallas Cowboy quarterback Don Meredith (17) is tackled after an 8-yard run in the second quarter of Sunday's game at the Cotton Bowl against the New York Giants September 24, 1967. Making the tackle are Giant Linebackers Bill Swain (52) and Vince Costello (57). (AP Photo)
Y.A. Tittle directs a last minute shift in strategy as the big Giants line engages the Dallas Cowboys, Nov. 12, 1963. (AP Photo/Ruben Goldberg)
New York Giants right end Aaron Thomas (88) tries hard but fails to catch pass from quarterback Fran Tarkenton in second quarter of game with the Dallas Cowboys at Yankee Stadium, Dec. 16, 1968, New York. Unidentified Cowboy pacing Thomas also failed in his intercepted attempt. The Cowboys won, 28-10. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
Cowboys fullback James Stiger (40) wasn't stopped by Giants Defensive back Jim Patton (20) in a play in the fourth quarter of their game at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas October 12, 1964. Stiger slipped from Patton a grasp and sailed through the air for a 11 yard gain. Coming in on the play is defensive Giants back Andy Nelson. (AP Photo)
Y.A. Tittle the hero is used to receiving attention and adulation wherever he goes. Here admiring young fans escort him from the field after a victory over the Dallas Cowboys, Nov. 12, 1963. (AP Photo/Ruben Goldberg)
First quarter of NFL game in Yankee Stadium, on Dec. 6, 1960 in New York. (AP Photo)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach (12) grimaces as he is hit hard by New York Giants defensive end Fred Dryer (89) and safety Tom Longo (44) after making short gain in second quarter of their game in Dallas, Tex., today, September 27, 1970. (AP Photo)
Y.A. Tittle, quarterback of the N.Y. Giants, directs a last minute shift in strategy as the Giants line crouches to engage the Dallas Cowboys, Nov. 12, 1963. (AP Photo/Ruben Goldberg)
Dallas Cowboys George Andrie (66) during a game against the New York Giants on September 27, 1970 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York. The Dallas Cowboys beat the Minnesota Vikings 28-10. Craig Morton played for 11 season all with the Dallas Cowboys and was a 5-time Pro Bowler.(David Durochik via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Craig Morton (15) turns to handoff as Dallas Cowboys linebacker Lee Roy Jordan (55) and safety Cliff Harris (43) run in pursuit during an NFL game in Flushing on October 12, 1975. The Cowboys defeated the Giants 13-7 in Shea Stadium. (AP Photo/Kevin Terrell)
Cliff Harris (43) of the Dallas Cowboys is upended returning a punt by the New York Giants during the second quarter at Yankee Stadium in New York, Dec. 13, 1971. Making the tackle is the Giants' Ralph Heck (55). In the background is Cowboy Claxton Welch. The Cowboys routed the Giants 42-14. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants defensive end George Martin flips Dallas Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach for a loss in the fourth quarter of game, Nov. 5, 1979 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Tough pressure by the Giants almost gave them a victory, but the Cowboys won 16-14 on a last minute field goal. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach (12) is chased by New York Giants defensive end Jack Gregory (81) during an NFL game against the New York Giants Oct. 10, 1976, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Tony Tomsic via AP)
Roger Staubach of the Dallas Cowboys seems oblivious to the presence of New York Giants Henry Reed behind him during the second quarter of Sundays game, Dec. 13, 1971, New York. Staubach threw three touchdown passes to lead the Cowboys to a 42-14 win over New York. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants Ottis Anderson (24) is hit by Dallas Cowboys Ken Norton, left, and Eugene Lockhart, right, in this Dec. 1989 photo in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) in action against the Dallas Cowboys at Giants Stadium, East Rutherford, N.J., Sept. 9, 1984. (AP Photo)
New York Giants Mark Bavaro, left, grabs a Phil Simms pass in front of the Dallas Cowboys Vince Albritt in the first quarter of the game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Nov. 2, 1986. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Gary Hogeboom (14) is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Leonard Marshall for a loss of ten yards in the third quarter, Nov. 4, 1984 at Irving, Texas. New York won the game 19-7. (AP Photo/Nuri Vallbona)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms celebrates his 53-yard pass to Lionel Manuel in the fourth quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at Irving, Texas, Nov. 4, 1984. (AP Photo/LK)
New York Giants running back Joe Morris (20) runs upfield during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys in East Rutherford on October 30, 1983. The Cowboys defeated the Giants 38-20. (AP Photo/Chuck Solomon)
New York Giants defensive end Lawrence Taylor rushes upfield against the Dallas Cowboys November 6, 1998 in New York. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
Dallas Cowboys running back Tony Dorsett, right, is hauled down by the New York Giants Carl Banks in the first quarter at Giants Stadium, Sunday, Oct. 6, 1985, East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
Earnest Gray (83), a New York Giants wide receiver grabs a pass from quarterback Phil Simms during the second period in Texas Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 5, 1984. Everson Wall (24) of the Cowboys was unable to prevent the 18 yard pass completion to the sidelines. The Giants beat Dallas 19-7. (AP Photo/DGB)
New York Giants tackle Brad Benson (60) prepares to block during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys in East Rutherford on October 30, 1983. The Cowboys defeated the Giants 38-20. (AP Photo/Chuck Solomon)
Dallas Cowboys running back Tony Dorsett (33) can't elude the grasp of New York Giants defensive end Curtis McGriff (76) during second half action in Texas Stadium in Irving, Sept. 28, 1981. The Giants held Dorsett to 70-yards for the day and stopped his 100-yards or better per games at three. The Cowboys still played well enough to defeat the Giants 18-10. (AP Photo/Ron Heflin)
New York Giants wide-receiver Johnny Perkins sprints down the side lines during second half action Sunday September 28, 1981 at Texas Stadium in Irving, Texas. Perkins (86) caught a pass from quarterback Phil Simms and was stopped by Dallas Cowboys safety Michael Downs (26). The Cowboys defeated the Giants 18-10 to win their fourth straight game. (AP Photo/Harry Cabluck)
Dallas Cowboys running back Lincoln Coleman (44) is in the center of a free-for- all with the New York Giants at the end of the first half Monday night, Nov. 7, 1994 in Irving, Texas. The Cowboys won, 38-10. -- (November 8, 1994.)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) celebrates during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys at the Meadowlands, East Rutherford, N.J., Oct. 18, 1999. The Giants defeated the Cowboys 13-10. (AP Photo/NFL Photos/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants Pepper Johnson tries to stop Dallas Cowboys Emmitt Smith during the first quarter of their match up at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Sunday, Sept. 13, 1992. Johnson was able to hold the charging Smith to just one yard on the play. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) gets some much needed protection from Doug Reisenberg (72) as he blocks Dallas Cowboys Tony Casillas (75) during the third quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sept. 13, 1992. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Anthony Wright (2) hits the ground after being sacked by New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan in the fourth quarater Sunday, Dec. 17, 2000 in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (9) and New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2009, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
Former President George W. Bush and his wife, Laura, watches his coin toss, as do officials and New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys players before an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 20, 2009, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
New York Giants tight end Kevin Boss, left, crosses the goal line for a touchdown before Dallas Cowboys safety Keith Davis pushed him out during the first quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 2, 2008, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants players including Shaun O'Hara (60) and David Diehl, right, celebrate after Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) scored the wining touchdown on a 1-yard run against the Dallas Cowboys in the fourth quarter of an NFC divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. The Giants beat the Cowboys 21-17. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants cornerback R.W. McQuarters (25) intercepts a pass intended for Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Terry Glenn (83) in the end zone during the final seconds of the fourth quarter of an NFC divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. The interception ended the Cowboys' final drive and sealed the Giants' 21-17 win. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
New York Giants wide receiver Amani Toomer (81) beats Dallas Cowboys linebacker Akin Ayodele, right, to the end zone as Toomer scores a touchdown on a 52-yard pass play in an NFC divisional playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
Dallas Cowboys running back Marion Barber (24) fumbles the ball as he is hit by New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan in the first quarter of an NFC divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. The Cowboys recovered the ball on the play. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
New York Giants wide receiver Amani Toomer races 52 yards against the Dallas Cowboys for a touchdown in the first quarter in an NFC divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants fullback Jim Finn carries a pass from quarterback Eli Manning for 15 yards in the fourth quarter of the Giants' 17-10 victory over the Dallas Cowboys to give the Giants sole possession of first place in the NFC East, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Cowboys cornerback Terrence Newman tries but can't stop Finn's run. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Dallas Cowboys' Terrell Owens (81) tries to get around New York Giants' R.W. McQuarters (25), right, and Sam Madison (22) after a reception during the second quarter of NFL Football in East Rutherford, N.J. on Sunday, Dec. 3, 2006. (AP Photo/Tim Larsen)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) celebrates his touchdown against the Dallas Cowboys by standing on the Cowboy's star in the end zone in the third quarter of their football game in Irving, Texas, Monday, Oct. 23, 2006. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Drew Bledsoe (11) is sacked for a loss of six yards by New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) in the 2nd quarter of their football game in Irving, Texas, Monday, Oct. 23, 2006. (AP Photo/L.M. Otero)
New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress (17) pull in a 50-yard touchdown pass in front of Dallas Cowboys safety Patrick Watkins (25) in the first quarter of their football game in Irving, Texas, Monday, Oct. 23, 2006. (AP Photo/L.M. Otero))
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan celebrates after sacking Dallas Cowboys quarterback Drew Bledsoe, rear during the third quarter Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 17-10. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Dallas Cowboys running back Julius Jones hangs on to the ball while being tackled by New York Giants' Nick Greisen during the third quarter Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005 in East Rutherford, N.J. Jones finished the game with 74 rushing yards and 88 receiving yards, but the Giants won 17-10. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan, front, celebrates after sacking Dallas Cowboys quarterback Drew Bledsoe, left rear, during the third quarter Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Cowboys guard Larry Allen is behind Strahan. The Giants won, 17-10. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants defensive tackle Kendrick Allen celebrates after recovering a fumble during the second quarter against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning calls an audible during he fourth quarter agaisnt the Dallas Cowboys Sunday night, Jan. 2, 2005, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Manning completed 18 of 27 passes for 144 yards and three touchdowns, leading the Giants to a 28-24 win. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants safety Brent Alexander reacts as he carries the ball after intercepting Drew Bledsoe's pass intended for Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson in the fourth quarter of the Giants' 17-10 victory over Dallas, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Dallas Cowboys coach Bill Parcells, right, shakes hands with New York Giants coach Tom Coughlin after the Giants' 26-10 win in Irving, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 10, 2004. (AP Photo/L.M. Otero)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) crashes over Dallas Cowboy cornerback Terence Newman (41) as Cowboys linebacker Bradie James (56) tries to make the stop in the 4th quarter in Irving, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 10, 2004. The Giants won, 26-10. (AP Photo/Tim Sharp)
New York Giants' Visanthe Shiancoe celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter Sunday, Jan. 2, 2005 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
Dallas Cowboys running back Eddie George (27) and New York Giants safety Gibril Wilson (28) get into a shoving match after George picked up 24-yards on a running play in the 1st quarter in Irving, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 10, 2004. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
New York Giants corner back Frnk Walker (41) knocks the pass away from Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson (19) in the end zone in 1st quarter at Irving, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 10, 2004. The Giants won, 26-10. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
New York Giants Ike Hilliard (88) dives over the goal line for a touchdown in the second quarter against the Dallas Cowboys, in Irving, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2002. (AP Photo/Tim Sharp)
Dallas Cowboys coach Bill Parcells, left, shakes hands with New York Giants coach Jim Fassel, prior to the game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Monday Sept. 15, 2003. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Kerry Collins (5) runs with the ball in the second quarter against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday, Dec. 17, 2000, as Cowboys defensive end Greg Ellis (98) gives chase. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
Dallas Cowboys' Troy Hambrick (42) is tackled by New York Giants Will Peterson (24) during the second quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Monday, Sept. 15, 2003. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants' Brian Mitchell, right, grabs Dallas Cowboys' Zuriel Smith, center, as he carries a punt return in the first quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Monday Sept. 15, 2003. Giants' Quincy Monk (93) and Cowboys' Randal Williams are at left. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber, right, breaks away from Dallas Cowboys safety Tony Dixon as he runs for a 60-yard gain during the first quarter Sunday, Dec. 15, 2002, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Ron Dayne (27) scores a touchdown on a four-yard run during the first quarter against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday, Dec. 15, 2002, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Dayne gained 80 yards and scored two touchdowns as the Giants beat the Cowboys 37-7. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Thabiti Davis, right, blocks a punt by Dallas Cowboys punter Micah Knorr during the fourth quarter Sunday, Nov. 4, 2001, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants beat the Cowboys 27-24 in overtime. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants Tiki Barber (21) pushes off Dallas Cowboys linebacker Dexter Coakley (52) in the fourth quarter Sunday, Oct. 6, 2002, in Irving, Texas. The Giants won, 21-17. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
New York Giants' Hakeem Nicks runs for the end zone during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game between the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Nov. 14, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
The New York Giants celebrate after defeating the Dallas Cowboys 37-34 after an NFL game Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Brandon Wade)
New York Giants cornerback Corey Webstern celebrates in front of the Dallas Cowboys following a failed field goal attempt by the Cowboys in the final seconds of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. The Giants won 37-34. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
The New York Giants celebrate after Dallas Cowboys' Dan Bailey, center, had his field goal attempt blocked during the final seconds of an NFL football game against the New York Giants Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. New York won 37-34. (AP Photo/Sharon Ellman)
New York Giants' Brandon Jacobs scores the winning touchdown against the Dallas Cowboys during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. New York won 37-34. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
New York Giants' Eli Manning during the second quarter of an NFL football game between the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Nov. 14, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants' Kevin Boss, left, fends off Dallas Cowboys' Bradie James during the first quarter of an NFL football game between the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Nov. 14, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants' Brandon Jacobs scores a touchdown as Dallas Cowboys' Anthony Spencer looks on during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Sharon Ellman)
New York Giants defensive end Dave Tollefson (71) tries to wrap up Dallas Cowboys quaterback Tony Romo (9) during an NFL football game on Sunday January 1, 2012 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) catches the ball during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2019 in Arlington, Texas. Dallas won 35-17. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
New York Giants tight end Larry Donnell (84) leaps over Dallas Cowboys cornerback Brandon Carr (39) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 13, 2015, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
New York Giants offensive guard Will Hernandez (71) and tight end Evan Engram (88) celebrate a touchdown catch by Engram in the first half of a NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) passes between Dallas Cowboys defensive end Tyrone Crawford (98) and free safety Barry Church (42) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct., 19, 2014, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (9) chats with New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning after their NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Cowboys 31-14.(AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) attempts to escape the tackle by Dallas Cowboys cornerback Chidobe Awuzie (24) in the first half of a NFL football game in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, left, runs past Dallas Cowboys' Jeff Heath during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Cowboys 31-14. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, top, scores a touchdown just before the ball is knocked from his hands during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec., 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Evan Engram, left, celebrates his touchdown catch with teammate Will Hernandez (71) during the second half of an NFL football game in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Sept. 16, 2018. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) signals at the line of scrimmage in the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday, Sept. 13, 2015, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (21) is wrapped up by New York Giants defenders after a short run in the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 11, 2016, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Ron Jenkins)
New York Giants cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (41) breaks up a pass intended for Dallas Cowboys' Dez Bryant (88) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 11, 2016, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Ron Jenkins)
New York Giants defensive end Dave Tollefson (71) tries to wrap up Dallas Cowboys quaterback Tony Romo (9) during an NFL football game on Sunday January 1, 2012 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) breaks loose during the first half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) makes a 18-yard touchdown as Dallas Cowboys safety Will Allen (26) loses his helmet during the second half of aN NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2013, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
New York Giants strong safety Antrel Rolle (26) intercepts a pass in front of Dallas Cowboys' Dez Bryant (88) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 24, 2013, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants receiver Victor Cruz (80) catches a pass between Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick (32) and safety Gerald Sensabaugh (43) during an NFL football game Sunday, January 1, 2012 at MetLife Stadium in Newark, New Jersey. The Giants won the game, 31-14. (AP Photo/James D Smith)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) is sacked by New York Giants' Robert Thomas (99) and Romeo Okwara (78) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 11, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Daniel Fells (85) drags Dallas Cowboys free safety Barry Church (42) into the end zone for a score as the Giants' Rueben Randle (82) watches during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 19, 2014, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass against the Dallas Cowboys during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) runs around the edge during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Dallas won 37-18. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs by Dallas Cowboys cornerback Chidobe Awuzie (24) during an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, NJ. The Cowboys defeated the Giants, 38-17. (James D. Smith via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) is forced out of bounds by Dallas Cowboys free safety Xavier Woods (25) during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) and Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) meet at midfield after an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Cowboys won 37-18. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) reacts after tackling Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (21) during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Andrew Thomas (78)
Devonta Freeman (31)
Andrew Thomas (78)
Darius Slayton (86)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scrambles during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) catches the ball in the endzone during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) rushes the passer during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
Dallas Cowboys defensive end Bradlee Anae (56) pressures New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys defeated the Giants, 37-34. (James D. Smith via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) runs the ball during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) on the line of scrimmage during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
The New York Giants offensive line lines up across the Dallas Cowboys defensive line during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. Dallas won 37-34. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) on the line of scrimmage during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
Dallas Cowboys linebacker Jaylon Smith (54) attempts to tackle New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) during an NFL game against the New York Giants, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants cornerback Darnay Holmes (30) breaks up a pass intended for Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb (88) during the second half of an NFL football game in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass under pressure from Dallas Cowboys defensive end Dorance Armstrong (92) and defensive end Aldon Smith (58) in the first half of an NFL football game in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020. (AP Photo/Ron Jenkins)
New York Giants place kicker Graham Gano (5) kicks a field goal from the hold of Riley Dixon (9) in the first half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) during a week 17 regular season football game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) sacks Dallas Cowboys quarterback Andy Dalton (14) during a week 17 regular season football game at MetLife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 17 regular season football game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants safety Xavier McKinney (29) during a week 17 regular season football game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) during a week 17 regular season football game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) during a week 17 regular season football game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) during a week 17 regular season football game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) sacks Dallas Cowboys quarterback Andy Dalton (14) during a week 17 regular season football game at MetLife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 5 game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas on Sunday October 10th, 2021,
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys during a week 5 game in Arlington, Texas on Sunday October 10th, 2021,
Leonard Williams (99)
Azeez Ojulari (51)
Devontae Booker (28)
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) during a week 15 football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday December 19th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Dexter Lawrence (97)
Danny Shelton (75)
Azeez Ojulari (51)
Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) during a week 15 football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday December 19th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants linebacker Azeez Ojulari (51) during a Monday Night football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Monday September 26, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
Ben Bredeson (68), Andrew Thomas (78)
New York Giants defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) during a Monday Night football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Monday September 26, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
Isaiah Hodgins (18)
Andrew Thomas (78)
Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
Sterling Shepard (3)
Daniel Bellinger (82)
Andrew Thomas (78)
Darius Slayton (86)
Daniel Jones (8)
Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
Darius Slayton (86)
Dexter Lawrence (97)
Daniel Jones (8)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) during a NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday November 24, 2022 in Arlington, Texas (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday November 24, 2022 in Arlington, Texas (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
New York Giants defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) during a Monday Night football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Monday September 26, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
New York Giants linebacker Jihad Ward (55) celebrates a tackle during a NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday November 24, 2022 in Arlington, Texas (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
TE Daniel Bellinger (82)
Queen Latifah sings the National Anthem before a week 1 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, September 10, 2023 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
A look down the line of scrimmage during a week 10 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, November 12, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
TE Lawrence Cager (83)
CB Deonte Banks (25)
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II (97) before a week 10 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, November 12, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
QB Tommy DeVito (15)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) during a week 10 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, November 12, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
NYPD, FDNY,PAPD before a week 1 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, September 10, 2023 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II (97) before a week 1 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, September 10, 2023 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants cornerback Darnay Holmes (30) intercepts a pass during a week 10 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, November 12, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
QB Tommy DeVito (15)
New York Giants quarterback Tommy DeVito (15) during a week 10 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, November 12, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
Deonte Banks, Kayvon Thibodeaux
Q: Daniel's been sacked eight times, plus he has the 16 rushes – two of them were kneel downs. That's a lot of potential times for him to get hit. He seems to be pretty good at either getting out of bounds or sliding. Does that mitigate your concern that he is exposed? \
Daboll: "I'm not making comparisons, but I've coached quarterbacks that have run a lot. And I trust that when the ball is in his hand that he will make the right decision. I can sit here and say, 'Get down.' I mean, there's a flow of the game: what you need to do for a first down, when to be smart, when to go for it. And when you put the ball in anybody's hands, you should have confidence that they'll make the right decision."
Q: One of the big stories this week is that Kenny Golladay played just two snaps on Sunday. I imagine he's not the first player that you've ever told that his playing time is getting cut. Can you say to players in this situation, "Things change in the league all the time. You have to be patient. You have to just work hard?" Things certainly changed for (San Francisco quarterback) Jimmy Garoppolo, who didn't get a playbook and was barred from meetings in training camp.
Daboll: "It's the National Football League. You can't make everybody happy. That was a decision we made last week. And Kenny has been a pro. He's done everything that we've asked him to do. It's not that Kenny played bad. He's done everything that we asked him to do. He's been a pro, and he'll continue to work. And (I) have full confidence in him."
Q: (Wide receiver) Richie James is your leading receiver. Two of your three touchdown receptions are by (fullback Chris) Myarick and (tight end Daniel) Bellinger. I don't think anyone would have guessed that. It seems like you are getting a lot of players involved. Do you feel that way?
Daboll: "There's power in numbers. There are times when you have a team where you're going to feed one person in particular or two – ours is (number) 26. I think the more you can make people involved, whether it's Bellinger, Myarick, Sills, KG (Golladay), James, KT (Kadarius Toney) – they're all here for a reason. When you bring them to a game, there are times you want to try to use all of them. There are times when you think the best thing to do is stay consistent with what you have. It's week-to-week."
Q: It sounded earlier in the week like you were pretty hopeful that (outside linebacker) Kayvon (Thibodeaux) and/or (outside linebacker) Azeez (Ojulari) will be back. They've been out at practice and getting team reps.
Daboll: "I've been hopeful the last few weeks, so I'm hopeful this week. Does that mean they'll play? I don't know."
Q: If you get them back and you have (outside linebacker) Oshane (Ximines) and Haddy (outside linebacker Jihad Ward), that seems like a pretty good group. Does it give you options to have all four of them available?
Daboll: "We'll see. We haven't discussed that yet. So, that's hard to answer right now. We'll see where these guys are at the end of the week. Obviously, we have different packages we've used defensively. As a coaching staff, whether it's defense, in the kicking game or offense, guys that are active, you try to find some role for them. It might be on special teams, it might be in a few personnel groups. We try to use all our guys if we can."
Q: We don't know what Leo's (defensive lineman Leonard Williams) status is yet. Since midway through his rookie season, Dexter Lawrence has not played a game without Leo next to him. If Leo doesn't play, will that affect Dexter?
Daboll: "No, I think Dexter is a pro. He's going to go out there and do his job. It's just as if you were an offensive lineman. We're rotating the guards in there. Everybody's got to do their job to the best of their ability and trust the person next to them to do theirs. Certainly, there's familiarity when you play with a guy. But I think Dexter, I don't want to speak for him, has confidence in the guys like we do."
Q: (Linebacker) Jaylon Smith is an interesting signing (to the practice squad). He was here last year and is a former second-round draft choice by Dallas. What did you see in him?
Daboll: "We're going to try to upgrade the roster any way we can. He's on the practice squad. He's got to learn our system. We'll see how that goes as time goes. Whether it's practice squad, roster addition, I think (general manager) Joe (Schoen) and the scouting department, we have however many tryout players in on Mondays and Tuesdays, whether it's an emergency purpose, whether that's to get a look at someone on the practice squad to see how they look and move more than just a workout. And once those guys get here, we see how they fit into our culture, our organization and get a better evaluation of them."
Q: It sounds like (Cowboys wide receiver Michael) Gallup is going to play. (Tight end Dalton) Schultz is uncertain. They're talking about perhaps elevating (tackle) Jason Peters from the practice squad. When there is uncertainty about some of the opponent's players, does it influence your preparation?
Daboll: "No. Our focus is on us and getting better in the stuff that we need to do. Whether you go back and study (Cowboys quarterback Cooper) Rush in the (Cincinnati) Bengals game or last year against the (Minnesota) Vikings or you go back and watch Peters' tape or Gallup last year, you look at the individual matchups to make sure you're on top of it. I think it's important for players to do that as well – guys that can potentially play – to make sure that you're watching obviously the tape that they're playing in. And if they're there, they're there. And if they're not, they're not."
Q: You're kind of a connoisseur of quarterbacks. What are your thoughts on seeing Cooper Rush run their offense as opposed to Dak (Prescott)?
Daboll: "I think he's a good player. I think when they give him space, he operates well. He makes good, accurate throws. He's played two games, and he's won two games – toward the end of the game as well. He makes good decisions with the football. It looks like he has a firm grasp of what they want to do offensively. So, he's a good, young quarterback."
Q: They've redone their (offensive) line, but they still have (guard) Zack Martin in there. I saw a great stat on Martin: eight years, seven Pro Bowls, five holding penalties.
Daboll: "That's pretty good. I'd take that."
Q: If you were watching a tape of the Cowboys and all of the players were wearing plain white jerseys, would (linebacker) Micah Parsons stand out?
Daboll: "Yes. I said this earlier this week, he's a problem. And he lines up in multiple spots. He can do anything you ask him to do. He's very, very talented. Explosive, quick, fast, instinctive, playmaker. He's a fun guy to watch when you're not getting ready to play him."
Q: Not so fun when you are.
Daboll: "That's exactly right."
Q: (Cornerback Trevon) Diggs has 14 interceptions in two seasons. He had two against the Giants last year; is there a line between you wanting Daniel to be aware of where he is, but you don't want him too worried about where he is?
Daboll: "The focus goes back on us. And with Daniel, trusting his eyes and making good decisions. I've known Tre for a while. He's a heck of a football player. I would just say when you watch Micah, you watch Trevon. He's got very good awareness. He's instinctive. He's long. He guesses right a lot of times and makes plays on the ball. He's got unbelievable ball skills. Smart player. It runs in his family."
Q: John Fassel, Dallas' special teams coordinator, is known for his gadget plays.
Daboll: "Yeah, 29 of them."
Q: You counted them? He tries to use one almost every game. Does your group have to be particularly aware of them this week?
Daboll: "I would say you have to be aware against him. He's been doing this for a long time. He's had a lot of good success with it. And you can practice those things. It's not going to be the one that he's going to do. You have to be alert to it. You still have to play your fundamentals and assignments because it's not an every-play thing. But it'll probably happen. There's a good chance. And I'd say the same thing offensively with (offensive coordinator) Kellen (Moore). But again, those are plays that you just have to play the fundamentals of the defense or the punt return unit – the punt rush unit – or if it's a surprise onside or if they've got a throwback or a sleeper play. They have a lot of different things that they've run that can't take away from your assignments or fundamentals of what we need to do. We just have to be alert to it, and we've practiced a number of them. It will probably happen. And we just have to do a good job of reacting when it does."
Q: You talked last week about you look at league situations for teaching examples. There seems to be a lot of them – numerous comebacks last week or (Browns running back) Nick Chubb not going down in Cleveland.
Daboll: "There always is."
Q: There's no more than usual?
Daboll: "There's so many each week. Power is in the details. So, learning it as a coaching staff when it happens is important so you can teach it to the players. I'd like to think we've been prepared throughout the spring and summer and covered about every situation we could, but when you think that, there's always another one that pops up or something happens that hasn't happened in three years and what a great learning experience it is. You just hope it's not your team on that tape."
Q: Whether you're well ahead or behind, I guess the message is never stop playing.
Daboll: "Our mantra is 60 minutes, regardless of the score or situation, and play the next play. That's what competitors do, just play the next play. It's a humbling league, sometimes from play to play, and you have to trash that last thing, good or bad, and move onto the next one."
