The Dallas Cowboys have found an unexpected gem in cornerback DaRon Bland, who seems to have answered the team’s prayers for a formidable second receiving option. Bland’s recent interception against Carolina Panthers rookie quarterback Bryce Young marked his sixth of the season, solidifying his status as a league leader in both interceptions and pick-sixes.
In his post-game interview with FOX sideline reporter Erin Andrews, Bland attributed his impressive productivity to his high school days as a receiver. Harkening back to his youth, Bland emphasized the mindset of going after the ball, a skill that has translated seamlessly into his defensive prowess.
With four interceptions returned for touchdowns in a single season, Bland has etched his name in the record books, tying for the most pick-sixes in a season. His remarkable performance on Sunday, where he scored the final touchdown of the game with a tumbling pick-six, contributed to the Cowboys’ dominant 33-10 victory over the Carolina Panthers.
Bland’s impact extends beyond the defensive realm, as he has now outscored notable receivers such as Davante Adams and Chris Olave. Among Cowboys players, only CeeDee Lamb has managed to score more touchdowns this season.
The win, coinciding with the announcement of former head coach Jimmy Johnson entering the Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor, propelled the team to a 7-3 record. Despite injuries to star cornerback Trevon Diggs and linebacker Leighton Vander Esch, the Cowboys’ defense has proven to be among the league’s elite, holding opponents to a mere 187 yards in the recent game.
Although the Cowboys rank 10th in success rate, their third-place standing in expected points added per play underscores their ability to limit explosive plays and create turnovers. Bland, with a remarkable -41.3 expected points added when targeted through 10 games, has achieved a borderline historic mark in his ball-hawking abilities.
Looking ahead, Bland is poised for another opportunity to showcase his ball production skills on Thanksgiving when the Dallas Cowboys host the Washington Commanders.