Risky decisions
Schottenheimer didn’t hesitate to take chances. Before halftime, he went for it on fourth down four times and converted each one, keeping Washington’s defense stuck on the field. That trust in Dak Prescott and his receivers allowed Dallas to pile up 17 first downs, while Washington managed only 18 offensive plays in the entire first half.
The coach insisted this aggressive style will define the rest of the season: trust the players and attack relentlessly.
The echo of Kneeland
Brian Schottenheimer also emphasized that honoring Kneeland’s spirit means sustaining that intensity week after week. The former player, remembered for his strength and discipline, became a symbol of what the team wants to project. According to Essentiallysports, Schottenheimer made clear the win was also a tribute to that memory.
Still, Brian Schottenheimer admitted the defense must rise to the same standard, something missing this year.
A future under review
Brian Schottenheimer knows the offense has delivered, with Dak Prescott playing at an MVP level and plenty of weapons producing. The issue is defense, one of the league’s worst, giving up over 30 points per game and wasting playoff chances.
Even Jerry Jones admitted deep changes are coming. Whether it’s a new coordinator or a complete reset, Dallas is headed for transformation. For Brian Schottenheimer, the challenge will be keeping the offense intense while fixing the defense, because only then can the Cowboys aim higher.
