The Dallas Cowboys defense only has nine interceptions on the season, but there is a positive to that statistic. Since Paul Pasqualoni took over the defense and implemented more zone coverage schemes, the Cowboys have had four interceptions. That’s just under half of the team’s season total in three games.

On the other side of the ball Sunday, Peyton Manning will enter the game having thrown seven interceptions in the last two weeks.

This could play in the favor of the Dallas defense if Manning and his struggles continue, but the team is not counting on such fortune.

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Source: Ashley Hill (Facebook.com)

Cowboys rookie cornerback Bryan McCann set a franchise record when he returned an Eli Manning interception 101-yards for a touchdown. McCann has been getting a lot of love from the fans, understandably, but the undrafted rookie isn’t satisfied yet.

A reporter suggested to McCann that his performance last week was a “story book finish.” The SMU rookie responded, “I wouldn’t necessarily say all that,” McCann said. “It’s definitely an honor to be recognized in the NFL. It feels good. But it’s one play in one game. I’ve definitely got to be more consistent and hopefully make more plays as the season progresses.”

Instead of focusing on his good play, McCann did what every professional should do and he offered up an honest critique of his performance. He pointed out that he was responsible for a long Hakeem Nicks catch that went for a touchdown, but was ultimately called back. He was also flagged for pass interference. It is refreshing to see a player focusing on getting better.

Cowboys rookie cornerback Bryan McCann was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week today. It was only the second time that McCann had seen action in his NFL career and he was receiving extra playing time due to injuries suffered by starting corners Michael Jenkins and Terrence Newman.

McCann intercepted an Eli Manning pass that was intended for Hakeem Nicks in the endzone and then trotted 101-yards to the endzone for a Cowboys score. The interception was the longest interception return in Cowboys history and the second longest play in franchise history — a 102-yard kickoff return by Alexander Wright is the longest play.

McCann becomes the second Cowboys to win NFC Defensive Player of the Week this season. DeMarcus Ware won the award in week 3.