Jerry Jones defends Brian Schottenheimer after Cowboys drop lead in Arizona
The Cowboys blew a 14-point fourth-quarter deficit to lose 33-30 in overtime, marking the second time this season they fell to backup quarterbacks.
By Adewale Fletcher ·
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones publicly supported head coach Brian Schottenheimer following a 33-30 overtime loss to the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday. The defeat erased a 14-point lead in the fourth quarter, matching the largest blown fourth-quarter lead in franchise history according to the Elias Sports Bureau. This result extends the team's struggles to a 3-5 record and marks the second time this season the Cowboys have lost to backup quarterbacks.
Jones, who has hired nine head coaches in his 37 years as owner and general manager, stated that many players failed the coaching staff. "I will say that a lot of people let Brian down today," Jones said. "And so for whatever criticism we want to have of Brian, we can all get in line." He referenced the midseason firing of Wade Phillips in 2010, noting that the current team situation does not mirror the 1-7 record and national humiliation that prompted that change.
Quarterback Dak Prescott echoed the sentiment, rejecting the idea that the loss rested solely on the coach. "Don't put the blame on one person," Prescott said. "I think that's weak. I think that's cowardly. This game is about all 11 that touch the field and every person that has a part in it, coaches and support staff. It's never just one person's fault." Prescott acknowledged the offense sputtered during the current four-game losing streak.
The Cardinals' comeback was fueled by backup quarterback Gardner Minshew, who threw three fourth-quarter touchdowns. The final drive covered 80 yards in 63 seconds. Arizona secured the win in overtime after Dallas kicker Chad Ryland missed a point-after attempt with six seconds left in regulation. Running back Tyler Allgeier also contributed with long runs, including a 63-yard touchdown and a 52-yard gain on consecutive plays.
Defensive inconsistency has plagued the team, which has a winning record in only one of the last 25 weeks under Schottenheimer. Linebacker DeMarvion Overshown, who forced a fumble, noted the defensive lapse. "We have to see what exactly went wrong, but it's just, it can't happen," Overshown said. The unit allowed four sacks and the offense averaged just 2.4 yards per carry, both season worsts. The Cowboys visit the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.
Injury concerns complicate the roster depth. Rookie first-round pick Caleb Downs and safety P.J. Locke are in concussion protocol. Edge rusher Malachi Lawrence is dealing with an ankle injury, while tight end Jake Ferguson left the Arizona game early and did not return. Cornerback Joey Porter Jr., acquired for a 2028 second-round pick, is also limited by an ankle issue. Wide receiver George Pickens, coming off a breakout 2025 season, has struggled to find his rhythm and stayed near the field-level club during the overtime period.
The Cowboys entered the game with a 191-0 home record since 1991 when leading by at least 14 points in the fourth quarter, according to Sportradar. That streak ended in Arizona, not on home soil, but it underscores the fragility of the team's current standing. Three of the next four opponents have losing records, yet the Cowboys have yet to secure consecutive wins.
