The Dallas Cowboys defense improved significantly under Dan Quinn.
They struggled against the run every single year with Quinn on board, but they were deadly against the pass, especially in the secondary and in pass-rush.
However, despite all the talent in their ranks, this team’s defense often collapsed when it mattered the most, and that’s something coach Mike Zimmer wants to make sure doesn’t happen on his watch.
The new defensive coordinator talked about his priorities during his introductory press conference, and he had an interesting take on how to approach this new challenge (via Jon Machota).
Per Zimmer, it’ll be all about communication and making the most of each player’s skill set and not so much about technique or even play-calling.
“At the end of the day, it’s about what the players can do. We can be the smartest guys in the world, but if the players can’t do what we’re asking them to do, then we’re not very smart,” Zimmer said.
New Cowboys DC Mike Zimmer:
“We got to get communication down first, the techniques down second. We got to make sure that we figure out where the personnel is and put them in the right place. And then get them coached up and let them go.
“At the end of the day, it’s about what… pic.twitter.com/gcahJdYi5w
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) February 15, 2024
He stated that if they try to do something the players can’t do, then they’re not very smart after all.
That’s actually right on point.
You may not have the right players to fit your defensive scheme, so you either have to find different players or change your scheme, but you can’t always make the players adapt to something they’re not good at or not familiar with.
Zimmer is a solid defensive-minded coach with plenty of experience, and he should find success with this group of players.
Then again, the biggest concern for the Cowboys will come on the other side of the field, as there will continue to be major questions about Dak Prescott’s ability to lead this team when it matters the most.
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