The Dallas Cowboys’ defense has seriously damaged their playoff hopes, losing the last 2 games, with the opponents scoring 30+ points. 

Following dismal performances in consecutive games, the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator, Matt Eberflus, is under‌ fire from all‌ sides. With the danger of losing his job looming over him, the owner, Jerry Jones, has voiced his opinion loud and clear. 

Just a few weeks ago, it looked like the Cowboys were back in the hunt, defeating the reigning Super Bowl winners, the Eagles, by 24-21 in Week 12. Not only that, but Dallas also beat the Chiefs by 31-28 the following week, thanks to Dak Prescott’s brilliance. 

While speaking on Inside the Star podcast, Jones talked about whether Eburflus’ future be determined by how the team finishes the season. “I think that should be a big criteria…because these three games are vital to us. We don’t play a game that’s not important to us,” Jones said. 

However, a 44-30 loss to the Lions in Week 14 and then a 34-26 loss to Minnesota the very next week saw them just lingering above the elimination line. They sit in a second spot in the NFC East division with a 6-7-1 record, with just 1% qualification chance. 

Dallas plays its last three remaining games against the Chargers, Washington, and the Giants. Only time will tell whether Eburflus saves his job with a solid defensive performance or not. However, if he fails to do so, Jones and the Cowboys might have to find a better replacement. 

Who could replace Matt Eberflus? 

Matt Eberflus took the job as the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator this season, and it's not a stretch to say that the results have been horrible. 

Dallas ranks 31st in points conceded, with 420 points so far this season. Moreover, they have been one of the worst defensive teams in the league, allowing 5249 yards to the opponents, and registering only 6 interceptions. 

With Eberflus’ departure almost confirmed, the real question is, who could replace him? Well, one name that is ‌‌higher priority is the Cowboys’ current defensive line coach, Aaron White Cotton. He has a good rapport with the players and the franchise itself. 

DE Quinnen Williams, who was recently traded to the Cowboys, has enjoyed working with him for the Jets. Although he has never been a defensive coordinator before, giving him a chance won’t make things worse than they already are.

Written by

Kalp Thaker

Edited by

Oajaswini Prabhu