The Dallas Cowboys' defense is under fire, and the pressure is mounting after another disappointing performance. Following their loss to the Carolina Panthers, Coach Brian Schottenheimer stepped up to defend defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus. But is it enough? Let's dive in.
Schottenheimer, when asked about Eberflus, emphatically stated, "Matt's a great coach." He highlighted Eberflus's history of success, noting that his defenses have consistently performed well. However, the numbers tell a different story. The Cowboys' defense has been struggling, and the recent game against the Panthers exposed significant weaknesses.
The Cowboys' defense allowed a staggering 216 rushing yards, a season-high, with former Cowboy Rico Dowdle leading the charge with 183 yards. This marks the fourth time this season that the Cowboys have given up at least 144 rushing yards. Adding to the woes, the team has also conceded at least 30 points for the fourth time and recorded one or fewer sacks in the same number of games.
And this is the part most people miss... Comparing this year's defense to last year's, which ranked 28th in yards allowed, the 2025 defense has given up more points (186 vs. 168) and yards (2,470 vs. 2,139) through the first six games. The rushing yards allowed are nearly identical (853 vs. 859).
Schottenheimer was asked whether the players are suited to Eberflus's system. He responded with a firm "Absolutely." He also added, "We gotta coach better. We gotta play better." This begs the question: If it's not the players, do they believe in the system?
When pressed on the matter, Schottenheimer seemed less certain, saying, "I would think so. I would hope so." He acknowledged the inconsistencies and the need for improvement, emphasizing that it starts with the coaching staff. Safety Juanyeh Thomas declined to comment on the scheme, stating it was an "in-house thing."
But here's where it gets controversial... According to ESPN Research, the Cowboys are only the seventh team in the Super Bowl era to score 175 or more points while allowing 175 or more in their first six games. Only the 2021 Kansas City Chiefs, who lost in the AFC Championship Game, made the playoffs. The remaining six teams didn't finish better than 8-8. This is not a good omen for the Cowboys.
The Cowboys are currently 2-3-1 as they head into their next game against the Washington Commanders. The Panthers, who entered the game with a struggling offense, managed to control the ball for the final 6 minutes and 7 seconds, ultimately kicking the winning field goal. Defensive tackle Kenny Clark summed it up: "It's a little bit of everything. Communication. Missed tackles. Got to play more physical. Got to set edges. Got to knock the line of scrimmage back. It's a little bit of everything."
What do you think? Is the problem with the players, the system, or the coaching? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
