Brian Schottenheimer, the new offensive coordinator of the Dallas Cowboys, is the leading cause of their success. His superheroics have helped save the Cowboys’ season at this important juncture in the NFL calendar. Following a disappointing start, Schottenheimer’s leadership helped guide the Cowboys to a three-game winning streak, placing them firmly in playoff contention. His improbable journey to this moment began with one high-stakes meeting with team owner Jerry Jones. Yet in that meeting, he had to convince Jones that he would be the right choice to lead the project.
In their first meeting, Schottenheimer laid out his vision for offensive schemes and practice schedule, sharing a wealth of football knowledge and strategy. As it turned out, this meeting was the one that gave him his final lock atop of the Cowboys’ playcalling hierarchy. At 52 years old, Schottenheimer returns with decades of experience as an NFL assistant. His experience has been hugely helpful during this new and exciting time for the team.
Quarterback Dak Prescott has already put Schottenheimer’s leadership on a pedestal, calling it incredible. What players say about Schottenheimer Prescott highlighted how much Schottenheimer’s intense confidence transfers to players, playing a huge role in their success out on the field.
“I think that just speaks to the confidence that Schotty has in us, as much as anything,” – Dak Prescott
Schottenheimer’s time with the Cowboys hasn’t come without its bumps. The heart-wrenching loss of their teammate Marshawn Kneeland tested the team’s grit. Schottenheimer relied on his experience and instincts to get them through that emotional maelstrom. His nuanced approach particularly encouraged a sense of togetherness among players right from the start of offseason program. Of course, it deepened emotional connections among coaches and athletes alike.
The impact of Schottenheimer’s father, Marty Schottenheimer, a high-quality and highly-regarded NFL head coach in his own right, hangs over his career like an albatross. Brian proudly carries his father’s original football card from Marty’s playing days with the Boston Patriots. It is a deeply effective tribute to his father’s legacy.
“Actually, I had to send my chief of staff, Tyler Boyles, in to get it last week before the game. I kind of forgot it. Sorry Dad and sorry Tyler. But it just reminds me, I want to make him proud,” – Brian Schottenheimer
After all that Brian Schottenheimer had done, he had recently started to question whether his chances of ever becoming a head coach had passed him by. After his recent success with the Cowboys, his Hall of Fame aspirations have been re-ignited.
The effect of Schottenheimer’s swagger and confidence is infectious and ripples throughout the team. His unorthodox playcalling and coaching leadership all exemplify his audacious philosophy. He takes aggressive risks with confident bravado, answerable to no one but himself.
“When you’re the head coach and you’re the playcaller, you can kind of take those aggressive shots,” – Brian Schottenheimer
As far as Jerry Jones goes, he has been supremely confident in Schottenheimer’s ability to execute this year, saying that he is “the right guy for the job.” He’s convinced that the players are really buying into Schottenheimer’s direction and starting to see his development as a leader.
“This team is seeing him really, as a head coach, evolve as a part of their plot,” – Jerry Jones
As the Cowboys continue their winning streak, it is evident that Schottenheimer’s leadership has had a profound impact on the team’s performance. Schottenheimer’s steadfastness and perseverance in the face of adversity, Prescott says, was key to that success.
“I just credit him for being the same, being consistent… he’s a hell of a leader,” – Dak Prescott
The Dallas Cowboys have plenty of reasons to remain optimistic moving forward after regaining their footing against the Los Angeles Chargers. Now with Schottenheimer at the helm of their offense, they are set up to make a big step forward toward playoff contention. His knowledge, combined with his family history, makes him the ideal person to be this franchise’s first true pillar. Armed with his own personal dedication to the game, he is uniquely positioned to do so.
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