Story perspectives

Cowboys confident in Schottenheimer after 2-4 primetime slump

By Drooid · Oct 22, 2026, 11:01 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Schottenheimer Vows Turnaround

Coach Brian Schottenheimer said he will roll up his sleeves.
The Cowboys are 2-4 after primetime losses to Tampa Bay and Green Bay.
EVP Stephen Jones said he and owner Jerry Jones have no doubt about Schottenheimer.
Schottenheimer said the team must improve the run game.
Schottenheimer added the team must protect the ball and win upcoming games.

Summary

Cowboys Defense Falters

The Cowboys' defense ranks last in the league, allowing the seventh-highest time-to-throw.
Trade acquisition Joey Porter Jr. allowed zero receptions on four targets in 44 coverage snaps despite injury.
Mike Pettine joined as defensive coordinator to revive the defense weakened after Dan Quinn’s 2023 departure.
Micah Parsons is out, and owner Jerry Jones continues searching for a comparable pass-rusher.

Summary

Shariff Calls Discipline

Shan Shariff urged the Dallas Cowboys to adopt Bill Belichick’s disciplined approach after their 23-13 loss.
He posted on X that the team lags in fundamentals and needs classroom drills.
He criticized the “nice guy” coaching style, claiming it fails to motivate players.
Stephen Jones publicly affirmed confidence in Schottenheimer despite Shariff’s calls for change.
Jerry Jones has not announced a coaching search, leaving Belichick speculation purely hypothetical.

History

Historical Context

In 2009, the Dallas Cowboys hired Wade Phillips as defensive coordinator, instantly transforming a bottom-ranked unit into a top-five defense. Phillips, previously with the Denver Broncos, guided the Cowboys to allow only 300 points—15% fewer than the 2008 season—earning a 12-4 record. Today's hiring of Brian Schottenheimer and defensive overhaul under Mike Pettine echo that 2009 coordinator shift, as Jerry and Stephen Jones seek similar rapid improvement. If the 2009 turnaround proves repeatable, the Cowboys could reverse their current 2-4 start, restore playoff contention, and reestablish Dallas as a perennial contender.

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Schottenheimer Vows Turnaround

Coach Brian Schottenheimer said he will roll up his sleeves.
The Cowboys are 2-4 after primetime losses to Tampa Bay and Green Bay.
EVP Stephen Jones said he and owner Jerry Jones have no doubt about Schottenheimer.
Schottenheimer said the team must improve the run game.
Schottenheimer added the team must protect the ball and win upcoming games.

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