FRISCO, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys are moving forward.
After a frustrating 34-31 loss to Baltimore, Dallas returned to work Wednesday with a clear message from head coach Brian Schottenheimer: learn from the mistakes, build on the positives and get ready for Houston.
The Cowboys are preparing for a Texans team that enters Sunday’s matchup at 0-3, but Schottenheimer isn’t putting much stock in Houston’s record.
“They’re not an 0-3 team,” Schottenheimer said.
Houston’s defense, in particular, has caught Dallas’ attention. Schottenheimer pointed to a defensive front led by Will Anderson Jr. and praised the Texans’ ability to move their star pass rusher around the formation.
Anderson can line up over the center, guard or tackle and attack offenses from different angles, creating another challenge for a Dallas offensive line that will need to communicate throughout the game.
“He’s an elite rusher,” Schottenheimer said.
Cowboys Want to Stay Physical
The Cowboys are also looking to carry momentum from their improved running game against Baltimore.
Schottenheimer said Dallas simplified some of its approach after recognizing that the offense may have gotten too creative early in the season. The emphasis now is on downhill running, physical blocking and creating explosive plays.
Javonte Williams received praise for his performance, particularly the explosive runs Dallas was able to generate.
For Schottenheimer, that physical approach will be important against Houston and beyond.
Dallas plans to practice in pads Thursday before working in shells Friday.
Pass Rush Must Take Another Step
Defensively, Dallas knows it needs more production from its pass rush.
Schottenheimer said getting quarterbacks on the ground remains a priority because sacks can create difficult down-and-distance situations and give the defense more flexibility with its coverage.
The Cowboys also need to improve their perimeter run defense.
With injuries affecting the secondary, Dallas may have to simplify portions of its defensive approach. Schottenheimer said the priority isn’t trying to confuse opponents but making sure the players on the field execute their assignments.
“It’s going to be about us executing and playing well,” he said.
Injuries Testing Dallas’ Depth
The Cowboys made several roster moves Wednesday as injuries continue to affect the team.
Defensive tackle Jonathan Bullard and safety Jalen Thompson are headed to injured reserve, while defensive tackle Elijah Garcia was added to the active roster.
Dallas also added defensive backs Alex Austin, Tyrek Funderburk and Juanyeh Thomas to the practice squad.
Schottenheimer said Garcia stood out because of his fundamentals, hand usage, lower-body strength and motor.
The Cowboys are also monitoring several injured players as they determine who can return to practice and potentially contribute Sunday.
Dak Prescott Communication Remains the Same
Schottenheimer also addressed his communication with quarterback Dak Prescott following the issues that surfaced during the Baltimore game.
He made it clear that there will be no change to their relationship or communication during games.
“Nothing’s going to change,” Schottenheimer said.
The Cowboys continue to rely on Prescott’s ability to make quick decisions and get the football to the open receiver.
That approach has helped spread opportunities among Dallas’ receiving targets, while the tight end group has also become an increasingly important part of the offense.
Dallas Focused on Progress
Despite the loss to Baltimore, Schottenheimer said the Cowboys are seeing signs of improvement.
The defense played well on third down. The running game showed more explosiveness. Dallas has also had stretches of strong red-zone defense earlier in the season.
Now the challenge is putting those pieces together consistently.
The Cowboys are 1-2 and head into Houston looking to get back on track. Schottenheimer’s message to the team is straightforward: block out the noise, learn from the previous game and focus on the next one.
For Dallas, that next opportunity comes Sunday against the Texans.
