The Cowboys made headlines during their win over the Raiders on Monday Night Football by choosing to kneel the football with more than two minutes left on the clock. This decision came after the Cowboys built a solid lead of 33–16 late in the fourth quarter.
After the Raiders attempted to mount a comeback, the Cowboys” defense made a pivotal play by sacking Geno Smith on fourth-and-1, turning the ball over to their offense at the Raiders” 6-yard-line with just over two and a half minutes remaining.
Instead of pushing for additional points, the Cowboys opted to have Dak Prescott take a knee. Initially, some observers interpreted this move as disrespectful towards the Raiders. However, Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer clarified his reasoning post-game, emphasizing his respect for Raiders coach Pete Carroll.
“I wasn”t gonna try and score there. Don”t need to. Too much respect for the game, too much respect for Pete,” Schottenheimer stated. “Walk out of here with a great win and a great team win.”
Schottenheimer also reflected on his relationship with Carroll, noting their connection from his time as the Seahawks” offensive coordinator from 2018 to 2020. “I saw him post game. We just had a chance to catch up. Again, he”s been so good to me. We just shared a few things and he told me how proud he was of me. I thanked him for everything he”s done for me and my career. I really do. I model so many things after him,” Schottenheimer added.
This victory marks a significant milestone for Schottenheimer as it represents both his first win as a head coach and a victory against one of his mentors.
