Here’s a bold statement: The Dallas Cowboys’ defense is in crisis mode, and it’s sparking heated debates among fans and analysts alike. But here’s where it gets controversial—despite ranking dead last in total defense (411.7 yards allowed per game) and second-to-last in scoring defense (30.7 points per game), defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus is receiving unwavering support from offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer. Yes, you read that right. Schottenheimer isn’t just defending Eberflus—he’s doubling down, calling him a ‘great coach’ and pointing to his track record of building strong defenses. ‘Matt’s trying, the players are trying,’ Schottenheimer told ESPN’s Todd Archer. ‘It’s not a lack of effort. This is not that.’
And this is the part most people miss—the Cowboys aren’t just struggling; they’re making history for all the wrong reasons. According to ESPN Research, they’re only the seventh team in the Super Bowl era to score 175+ points and allow 175+ points in their first six games. Ouch. Yet, Schottenheimer insists the issue isn’t personnel. ‘We have the guys to execute Matt’s defense,’ he said. Executive VP Stephen Jones echoed this sentiment on 105.3 The Fan, chalking it up to ‘execution’ and ‘consistency.’
But let’s pause for a moment—here’s the controversial part: If the players are talented and the scheme is sound, why isn’t it working? Schottenheimer admits it’s a ‘bigger question’ whether the players truly believe in the system. ‘We’ve shown flashes,’ he said, pointing to improvements in the passing game and run defense. ‘But there’s a consistency that’s not showing up.’ And then there’s the elephant in the room: the trade of star defender Micah Parsons to the Packers just before the season. Owner Jerry Jones claimed it was to bolster the run defense, but the Panthers gashed the Cowboys for 216 rushing yards on Sunday, with former Cowboy Rico Dowdle racking up 183 yards on 30 carries. Yikes.
So, where does the blame lie? Is it the scheme, the players, or the coaching staff? Schottenheimer takes partial responsibility, saying, ‘It starts with me. It starts with the coaching staff to put these guys in the right position.’ But is that enough? Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Can a struggling defense turn it around mid-season, or is this a lost cause? And if Eberflus isn’t the problem, who or what is? Let’s hear your take in the comments—agree or disagree, this debate is far from over.
