FRISCO, Texas — Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer saw progress in Dallas’ 37-20 victory over Washington, but he knows there is still plenty to clean up as the Cowboys prepare for a short week and an international matchup with the Baltimore Ravens.
Schottenheimer said the Cowboys improved in several areas, particularly communication on defense and overall execution. He credited defensive coordinator Christian Parker for remaining composed while working through injuries and personnel changes.
“I thought the communication was better,” Schottenheimer said. “I think there was improvement last night.”
Dallas will have to make adjustments in the secondary after injuries to cornerback Kobe Durant and safety P.J. Locke. Schottenheimer said Durant is dealing with a hamstring strain, while Locke suffered a torn plantar fascia. Both could miss several weeks.
The Cowboys also received encouraging performances from players forced into expanded roles. Schottenheimer praised rookie cornerback Da’Mornay Brown and safety Markquese Bell for stepping in when injuries created opportunities.
The defensive improvement will be tested immediately against Baltimore, particularly with the Ravens’ combination of quarterback Lamar Jackson and running back Derrick Henry.
Schottenheimer said Dallas must improve its run defense and do a better job containing mobile quarterbacks.
“We’ve got to be better,” he said. “We’ve got to set the edges better.”
The Cowboys’ pass rush has generated pressure but has struggled to consistently finish plays against athletic quarterbacks. Schottenheimer said Dallas has come close to making several big plays but needs to complete them.
“If you can finish a couple of those things, that would be tremendous for us,” he said.
Offensively, Schottenheimer acknowledged the Cowboys’ running game remains a work in progress. Dallas has relied heavily on Dak Prescott and its passing attack through the first two games, but the coach said establishing more balance will be important.
“I don’t want to throw it 50 times a game,” Schottenheimer said.
He praised running back Javonte Williams and the offensive line while acknowledging that Dallas has experienced too much penetration into the backfield.
Prescott, meanwhile, earned strong marks from his coach after completing most of his throws against Washington. Schottenheimer highlighted Prescott’s accuracy, decision-making and ability to make plays with his legs.
“He played really well,” Schottenheimer said.
Now the Cowboys turn their attention to a different challenge: Baltimore, a long trip and a game in a foreign country.
Schottenheimer said the team has no major concerns about the playing surface and plans to use its Saturday walkthrough at the stadium to familiarize players with the environment. The Cowboys will also have multiple cleat options available in case adjustments are needed.
Despite the unusual week, Schottenheimer said the players are embracing the opportunity.
“Our guys are excited,” he said.
For Dallas, the message remains straightforward: build on the win, correct the mistakes and move on to the next opponent.
