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Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer issued a harsh self-assessment after Sunday’s 34-31 loss to the Baltimore Ravens in Rio de Janeiro, bluntly telling reporters that he graded his offensive play-calling an “F.” The defeat dropped the Cowboys to 1-2 on the season, capping off a dramatic contest that hinged on late-game clock management and a controversial penalty.
Late-Game Breakdown and Missed Opportunities
The Cowboys had a prime opportunity to steal a victory in the closing seconds when a controversial pass interference call against the Ravens handed Dallas the ball at the 2-yard line with just 23 seconds left on the clock. Trailing by three points, the offense failed to punch it into the end zone. Quarterback Dak Prescott threw an incompletion, scrambled for two yards after sliding out of the pocket, and then tossed another incompletion out of the back of the end zone despite receiver George Pickens appearing open on the play.
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Rather than pushing for the winning touchdown, Dallas settled for a field goal to tie the game, expecting to battle it out in overtime. Instead, Brandon Aubrey’s subsequent touchback gave Baltimore the ball at their own 35-yard line with precious seconds remaining. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson immediately connected on a 27-yard pass to Zay Flowers and called a timeout with just one second left, setting up Tyler Loop for a game-winning 56-yard field goal.
Contrasting Views on Offensive Production
Despite Schottenheimer’s scathing review of his own play-calling, the Cowboys’ offense actually put up substantial numbers during the game. Dallas accumulated 413 total yards of offense, which included a season-high 148 rushing yards. However, the unit struggled significantly on money downs, converting just 5-of-13 third-down attempts.
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Tight end Jake Ferguson also suffered a critical second-half turnover that stalled momentum, though that play was mired in controversy. Despite the statistical output and a strong rushing attack, the mismanagement of the final offensive sequence left the defense vulnerable and handed Baltimore the opening they needed.
Did you know? The 34-31 loss in Rio de Janeiro marks the first time this season the Cowboys have dropped two out of their opening three games, putting intense pressure on the coaching staff ahead of Week 4.
Locker Room Reactions and Upcoming Matchup
Schottenheimer emphasized the emotional toll of the defeat inside a somber visiting locker room. “I’m disappointed as hell right now because of the pain in that locker room,” he told reporters. He added that while the international trip was a unique experience, the missed opportunity stings, emphasizing that the team must stick together. Prescott echoed those sentiments, asserting that the offense should have been capable of closing out the game on that final drive rather than leaving the door open for a Ravens comeback.
The 1-2 Cowboys now face a quick turnaround as they prepare to take on the winless Houston Texans next week. With lingering injuries plaguing the defensive secondary and lingering questions surrounding late-game execution, Dallas has little time to correct course.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Cowboys’ Loss
What grade did Brian Schottenheimer give his play-calling?
Schottenheimer gave his offensive play-calling an “F” during his postgame press conference.
How did the Ravens win the game in the final seconds?
After Dallas settled for a tying field goal, Baltimore used a 27-yard pass from Lamar Jackson to Zay Flowers with one second remaining to set up a 56-yard game-winning field goal by Tyler Loop.
What is the Cowboys’ record heading into Week 4?
The defeat drops Dallas to a 1-2 record as they prepare to face the Houston Texans.
How many rushing yards did the Dallas offense record?
The Cowboys tallied a season-high 148 yards on the ground as part of 413 total offensive yards.