Dan Quinn, the new defensive coordinator of Dallas, has been key in the good step of the team

We don’t intend to speak for head coach Mike McCarthy or his players, but with the Cowboys having a few days off the grind to catch their breath and reflect on a 5-1 start, let’s make a general statement: This group has outgrown The expectations.

One of the reasons for the team’s success this season is the work of Dan Quinn, the defensive coordinator who arrived in Dallas this year.

The Cowboys signed Quinn and the team used its first six picks in the draft, and eight picks overall, on defense while adding five more veterans on that side of the ball in free agency.

It was reasonable to expect that this extreme makeover will take some time to materialize.

Dallas’ defense is far from a finished project, but this group has kept opposing offenses off balance at key moments in the game with their speed and scheme.

First-round draft pick Micah Parsons has made a significant impact from day one.

The Cowboys defense has forced 14 turnovers so far this season, only Buffalo has more.

The defense has forced at least two turnovers in every game this season and has done so for 10 games stretching through last season, the longest active streak in the NFL.

Quinn’s clear communication and attention to detail have seen the Cowboys’ defense improve over their very poor performance last season.

“We talk super powers with people,” said Al Harris, the team’s safety coach.

“Dan’s super power is, man, he does a great job, bringing people together. He’s amazing at that. Dan is tough when he has to be, but super positive. That’s very helpful for players and coaches.”

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