Packers-Cowboys preview: How Dallas schemes up shot plays

Writer Rich Madrid analyzes how the Dallas Cowboys utilize the classic "989" passing concept to generate explosive deep plays ahead of their matchup with the Green Bay Packers. The scheme relies on three vertical routes—two outside go routes and an inside post or middle read—to stress defensive coverage and isolate receivers against safeties. Through Week 5, Dallas quarterback Dak Prescott has completed eight passes of 20 or more yards downfield for 271 yards and two touchdowns.

Madrid highlights how the Cowboys used the concept against Green Bay's defense during a 40-40 tie in 2025. In that game, Prescott exploited coverage rotations to connect with receivers George Pickens and Jalen Tolbert in overtime. Madrid concludes that the Packers' defense must remain sound in deep coverage to limit Dallas's perimeter passing attack.