The Dallas Cowboys’ thrilling win over the Washington Commanders was a welcome relief, snapping a frustrating five-game losing streak. But while the victory was sweet, it didn’t disguise the reality that the franchise is in need of a complete overhaul after a disappointing 2024 season. That includes a potential change at head coach.
Mike McCarthy’s tenure has failed to yield a Super Bowl since he took over in 2020, and Cowboys owner Jerry Jones teased a potential contract extension for McCarthy this week. Still, rumors are swirling that if McCarthy isn’t brought back, six-time Super Bowl champion Bill Belichick could be the next man to lead America’s Team.
But after his latest public appearance on ESPN’s ManningCast, some red flags have emerged regarding Belichick’s coaching future—especially if he were to take the reins in Dallas.
A Troubling Call During Monday Night Football
During the broadcast of Monday night’s Ravens vs. Chargers game, Belichick’s comments sparked concern among fans and analysts alike. When the Chargers were faced with a 4th-and-1 at the 30-yard line with a chance to take the lead, Belichick suggested that head coach Jim Harbaugh should kick a field goal to go up by 10 points.
In what was a highly questionable call, Belichick’s advice appeared to disregard the obvious choice: going for it. The Chargers were dominating offensively, with a healthy offensive line and a bruising back in Gus Edwards, not to mention quarterback Justin Herbert, who was carving up the Ravens’ defense. Kicking the field goal in that spot would have been a conservative move, one that lacked confidence in his offense and missed the chance to put the game away.
In contrast, Harbaugh correctly chose to go for it, and the Chargers converted the 4th-and-1, keeping the pressure on Baltimore. While the Chargers’ subsequent drive didn’t result in a touchdown, the decision to go for it on fourth down was the right call. It showed an aggressive mentality and a desire to seize momentum. That drive, along with two successful 4th-and-1 conversions by Baltimore later in the game, helped the Ravens ultimately win by seven points.
Bill Belichick on the ManningCast on @ESPN criticizing the Cowboys’ tackling:
“Go tackle him. You wear pads for a reason. Go tackle him.”
— Nick Harris (@NickHarrisFWST) November 19, 2024
Why This Matters for the Cowboys
Belichick’s “field goal first” mentality could spell trouble for a Cowboys team that has been known for its offensive weapons and potential to put up big numbers. The Cowboys have an explosive offense, featuring quarterback Dak Prescott, receiver CeeDee Lamb, and running back Tony Pollard. In tight game situations, especially with the game on the line, coaches need to show confidence in their offense to make plays, not settle for conservative options.
Belichick’s reputation as a strategic mastermind is well-deserved, but his track record in recent years, especially with the New England Patriots, has been anything but flawless. If he were to take over in Dallas, Cowboys fans might have to prepare for a shift in philosophy—one that is much more cautious, potentially stifling the offensive firepower that the team has on paper.
The Bottom Line
While the idea of Belichick taking over as head coach is tempting for many fans, his recent comments and coaching decisions have raised serious concerns. If he can’t see the value in aggressive calls like going for it on fourth down in a pivotal moment, how will he handle the high-pressure situations the Cowboys face in their own playoff hunt?
As Cowboys owner Jerry Jones continues to evaluate the coaching future, Belichick’s latest “audition” should be a cautionary tale. The team needs a head coach who will embrace aggressive decision-making, one who will trust in his players to make big plays when it counts, not one who plays it safe to avoid risk.
If this is the direction the Cowboys are heading, fans should be prepared for a coaching change that could be more of a setback than a step forward.