Brian Schottenheimer blames Cowboys' defensive struggles on growing pains
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 10, 2026, 12:30 PM
Last updated Oct 10, 2026
Dallas Cowboys' offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer attributed the team's defensive issues to growing pains from a new coordinator and player changes. After a 24-16 loss to Tampa Bay, the Cowboys' defense has allowed opponents to complete at least 70% of their passes in every game this season and has yet to record an interception. Previous attempts to revamp the defense after a poor 2025 season have not yielded the desired results. Schottenheimer's comments are met with skepticism as injuries persist, including Joey Porter Jr. missing the Thursday night game due to illness. The Cowboys must find solutions quickly to improve their league-worst defensive statistics.
- •Schottenheimer supports defense challenges as growing pains from roster changes.
- •Dallas allowed 70% completion rate and no interceptions in five games.
- •Injuries have affected the secondary, complicating defensive continuity.
- •Cowboys' defense was previously historically poor in 2025.
- •Team responds to criticism while seeking improvement in defense.
- 12:30 PMYahoo Sports — Brian Schottenheimer Must Answer for More Than the Offense
- 12:10 PMYahoo Sports — Brian Schottenheimer gives ridiculous excuse for Cowboys’ defensive woes
"Brian Schottenheimer faces scrutiny after the Cowboys’ loss to Tampa Bay exposed problems that extend beyond the offense and into his entire team.
"The Cowboys' head coach is on thin ice after latest comments.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsOct 10, 2026, 12:30 PMBrian Schottenheimer Must Answer for More Than the Offense
Brian Schottenheimer faces scrutiny after the Cowboys’ loss to Tampa Bay exposed problems that extend beyond the offense and into his entire team.
- Yahoo SportsOct 10, 2026, 12:10 PMBrian Schottenheimer gives ridiculous excuse for Cowboys’ defensive woes
The Cowboys' head coach is on thin ice after latest comments.
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