The Dallas Cowboys elevate running back Malik Davis from the practice squad ahead of Week 7 vs the Commanders. After a poor rushing performance, will this move spark a turnaround for America’s Team?

Dallas Cowboys Seek Redemption in Week 7

The Dallas Cowboys are gearing up for a crucial Week 7 clash against the Washington Commanders, and all eyes are on the backfield. After a disappointing loss in Week 6, head coach Mike McCarthy and the coaching staff have made a bold move — calling up running back Malik Davis from the practice squad.

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This decision signals one clear message: the Cowboys are looking to reignite their ground game and restore offensive balance after being completely outplayed on the ground in their previous matchup.

Why Malik Davis Is Getting the Call

In last week’s loss to the Carolina Panthers, Dallas managed just 31 rushing yards — one of their lowest totals of the season — while Carolina ran wild with over 200 rushing yards. Starting RB Javonte Williams couldn’t find rhythm, and rookie Jaydon Blue was held to only 7 yards on 7 carries.

That poor performance forced the Cowboys’ coaching staff to make a change.
Enter Malik Davis, a familiar face to Cowboys fans. Signed as an undrafted free agent in 2022, Davis has shown flashes of explosiveness and versatility during his time in preseason and practice reps. He spent most of 2024 on the practice squad, but his patience and work ethic have finally earned him another shot at the main roster.

According to Sports Illustrated, this move reflects the team’s disappointment with the current rotation and desire to add more physicality and energy to the run game.

Coach McCarthy’s Adjustment Mindset

Head Coach Mike McCarthy emphasized the need for balance after the Week 6 collapse, admitting that the offense had become too predictable. Offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer is expected to make strategic adjustments to get the ground game back on track — and Davis could play a major role.

“Malik’s fresh legs and power running could give us the spark we need,” one Cowboys insider told SI.com. “He’s earned this shot, and the locker room believes in him.”

Key Matchup: Cowboys vs Commanders (Week 7)

• 🏟️ Venue: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas

• 📅 Kickoff: Sunday, Week 7

• 📺 Broadcast: FOX / NFL Network

The Cowboys enter this game with a 3–3 record, looking to bounce back and reassert themselves as playoff contenders. The Commanders, meanwhile, have proven pesky opponents this season, with a defense that ranks top 10 in red zone efficiency but struggles to stop the run — an area where Malik Davis could immediately make an impact.

Cowboys’ Offensive Stars to Watch

• Dak Prescott (QB): Coming off an up-and-down stretch, Prescott will need to rely on the running game to open up passing lanes.

• CeeDee Lamb (WR): The star receiver has been vocal about wanting more targets, and this matchup could offer him room to shine against a young secondary.

• Micah Parsons (LB): The heart of the Cowboys’ defense continues to dominate — already with multiple sacks this season, he’s expected to pressure Washington’s QB early and often.

• Malik Davis (RB): The player everyone’s watching. If he can provide early spark and fresh energy, it could change the tone of Dallas’ entire offense.

Fan Reactions: #CowboysNation Rallies Behind the Move

Cowboys fans — known collectively as #CowboysNation — have been buzzing about Davis’s call-up on social media. Many believe he deserves this chance after months of hard work.

One popular fan post on X read:

“It’s about time Malik gets his shot! We need that burst, that hunger — let’s run the damn ball again!”

Another fan added:

“Cowboys look lost on the ground lately. Davis might be the answer. Let’s ride, #CowboysNation!”

This wave of support underscores the high expectations surrounding Davis’s debut in Week 7.

Game Prediction

Analysts predict a tight but high-energy game. With a renewed focus on the ground attack, the Cowboys are expected to come out more balanced offensively.

Prediction:
🏈 Cowboys 27 – Commanders 20

If Davis can help open running lanes and give Dak Prescott more flexibility in play-action, Dallas could easily find its groove again. A strong performance in front of the home crowd at AT&T Stadium might just be the turning point they need heading into midseason.

Can Malik Davis Be the Spark Dallas Needs?

The Cowboys’ decision to call up Malik Davis isn’t just a roster move — it’s a message. Dallas is tired of underperforming in the run game and ready to rediscover its physical identity. For Davis, this is more than an opportunity — it’s redemption. For the Cowboys, it’s a chance to silence critics and remind fans why America’s Team still belongs in the playoff conversation.

One thing is certain: when the Cowboys take the field this Sunday, #CowboysNation will be louder than ever, ready to cheer their team — and their new spark plug — to victory.