Cowboys HC Declares: “We’re Fine Without Parsons”

Dallas, September 12, 2025

Following the Green Bay Packers’ 27-18 victory over the Washington Commanders this morning at Lambeau Field, Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer remains steadfast, asserting his team’s defense is still a powerhouse despite trading away their defensive superstar to Green Bay. With a 0-1 record after a Week 1 loss to the Eagles, Schottenheimer is gearing up for a Week 2 clash against the New York Giants, aiming to back his bold claim.

In this morning’s game, the Packers’ defense dominated, holding the Commanders (No. 5 offense last season, averaging 28.5 points/game) to just 18 points. Their superstar, now shining in Green Bay, played a pivotal role with 1.5 sacks across two games, relentlessly pressuring Jayden Daniels and helping the Packers lead the NFL in defense (133 yards allowed per game). Green Bay’s 2-0 start owes much to Jordan Love’s two touchdown passes and a Jeff Hafley-led defense.

Schottenheimer, in his first season as head coach after replacing Mike McCarthy in January 2025, praised players like Osa Odighizuwa, Dante Fowler Jr., and rookie Donovan Ezeiruaku for stepping up. “We’ve still got dogs out there,” he said in a press conference. “Our guy’s killing it in Green Bay, but we’re a top-tier unit. Our 42% pressure rate on Jalen Hurts in Week 1 shows we don’t need one star to dominate.”

In Week 1, the Cowboys’ defense held firm in a 24-20 loss to the Eagles, limiting third-down conversions to 25% (4/16) and recording two sacks, though allowing 119 rushing yards. Schottenheimer emphasized that the superstar’s absence hasn’t weakened them, especially when compared to the Packers, who held the Lions (No. 1 offense last season) to 13 points in Week 1 and the Commanders to 18 this morning. However, injuries to Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland remain concerns.

Facing a Giants offense that allowed a 40% pressure rate on Russell Wilson in Week 1, the Cowboys have a chance to climb their defensive rankings (estimated No. 10-15). Schottenheimer believes his speed-and-versatility scheme can compete, even as the Packers dominate the NFC with Dallas’ former star.

With a Week 4 showdown against the Packers in Dallas looming, Schottenheimer’s claim faces a major test. For now, he’s doubling down, banking on his revamped defense to prove the Cowboys remain playoff contenders without their once-pivotal superstar.