Incredible statistics demonstrate that Dan Quinn was instrumental in supporting the Cowboys’ defense.
Dan Quinn joined the Dallas Cowboys in 2021, seeking a fresh start after being let go as head coach of the Atlanta Falcons. Dallas aimed to revamp a struggling defense and believed Quinn, who held Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos to just eight points in Super Bowl XLVIII, was the right choice.
The collaboration proved to be highly successful. Under Quinn, Dallas ranked in the top 10 for points allowed for three consecutive years and transformed a turnover-deficient defense into one that consistently generated takeaways. He also restored his reputation, becoming a sought-after candidate during the offseason coaching searches.
To retain him, Jerry Jones had to offer a substantial salary.
Despite Quinn’s success, run defense remained a concern, as the Cowboys often struggled against the run. This contributed to the excitement when he accepted the head coaching position with the Washington Commanders and Mike Zimmer was brought in as his replacement.
Zimmer, who served as the defensive coordinator in 1995 when the Cowboys won their last Super Bowl, was expected to strengthen the run defense. Unfortunately, that hasn’t materialized, as they currently sit at the bottom of the NFL in run defense.
Unlike Quinn, Zimmer hasn’t compensated for weaknesses in the run game by performing well in other aspects. As a result, the team has become one of the league’s weakest defenses, as noted by reporter Brittany Bowen.
Considering all of this, it’s no surprise that Dallas ranks 30th in the NFL for points allowed and 24th in total yardage.
However, it’s important to note that Zimmer isn’t solely to blame; the problems extend beyond him. The offense is also struggling, particularly in the run game. As of Week 7, they sit last in the league with only 463 rushing yards and just two rushing touchdowns.
Moreover, they have the worst receiver separation in the NFL, which Troy Aikman recently criticized. Coupled with weak pass protection, it’s difficult to understand how they’ve managed to reach the bye week at 3-3.
