Schottenheimer’s Year 2 hinges on fixes after 7-9-1 debut
One losing season down, Dallas’ offensive architect faces a make-or-break second act to salvage his tenure and revive playoff dreams.
One losing season down, Dallas’ offensive architect faces a make-or-break second act to salvage his tenure and revive playoff dreams.
0. 0 yards per carry average. 1%).
The front office responded by drafting edge rusher Tyrus Wheat in the fifth round and signing veteran safety Malik Hooker to bolster the back end. But the defensive front’s inability to generate consistent pressure—ranking 28th in sacks (31)—meant opposing quarterbacks had ample time to dissect Dallas’ zone-heavy scheme. The unit’s struggles were magnified in prime-time games, where they allowed 30+ points in four of six appearances.
Schottenheimer acknowledged the growing pains, telling reporters in May: “We didn’t execute at the level we needed to. ” The staff has since emphasized situational football, tighter play-calling, and improved communication between coordinators. Offensive coordinator Brennan Carroll has been tasked with diversifying the playbook, incorporating more play-action and bootlegs to exploit defenses overplaying the run.
Meanwhile, defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer has pushed for a simplified, gap-based front to generate interior pressure and reduce explosive plays allowed. What’s next: The Cowboys’ 2024 schedule features winnable home games against Detroit and Tampa Bay in Weeks 2 and 3, but road trips to San Francisco and Philadelphia loom in December. A 3-1 start could reset expectations; another slow start risks fan patience and front-office patience alike.
The team’s Week 1 matchup against the Giants in New York could set the tone—Dallas hasn’t won in East Rutherford since 2020, and a loss there would immediately cast doubt on Schottenheimer’s adjustments. The stakes extend beyond wins and losses. The Cowboys’ 2024 draft capital—including a fourth-round pick traded to move up for Wheat—reflects Jerry Jones’ commitment to Schottenheimer’s vision.
But if the roster’s talent isn’t maximized, the franchise risks squandering Prescott’s prime years and Parsons’ prime defensive seasons. The NFC’s middle tier is winnable, but only if Dallas tightens its discipline and maximizes its offensive weapons without overcomplicating the scheme. The offensive line’s depth remains a glaring vulnerability.
0 yards per carry stemmed from a thin interior and frequent blitzes that left Prescott with limited time. Wheat’s arrival adds a fresh edge to the pass rush, but without a stronger interior line, the run game will continue to be a liability and will force Prescott into predictable short passes that depress his rating. Within the NFC North, the Cowboys face a cluster of teams that have improved their defensive efficiency.
The Packers’ revamped secondary, the Vikings’ balanced offense, and the Bears’ emerging pass rush all present matchups where Dallas’ inability to protect the ball and generate pressure could be exploited. Fans and media in Dallas are already vocal, demanding tangible progress by midseason or risking a coaching shake‑up. Read at ESPN
Schottenheimer’s second year is a referendum on his tenure. A playoff berth would validate the Cowboys’ investment in continuity, while another losing season could trigger a coaching overhaul. The roster still has talent—Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, Micah Parsons—but execution must improve. The NFC’s middle tier is winnable if Dallas tightens its discipline and maximizes its offensive weapons. The front office’s draft moves and free-agent additions have addressed key weaknesses, but the proof will be in the execution during high-leverage moments.
ESPNespn.comBy Todd ArcherJun 16, 10:00 AMen
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