Brian Schottenheimer Prepares for Cowboys vs. Jets Rematch

FRISCO, Texas — Dallas Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer is gearing up for Sunday’s game against the New York Jets, a team he once spent six seasons with as their offensive coordinator.

Schottenheimer, who is now in his 26th year as a coach, acknowledged the significance of this return, even if it doesn’t carry the same excitement as a previous matchup. “Little different,” he said with a grin, recalling his time in New York from 2006 to 2011.

During his tenure, the Jets reached the AFC Championship Games in 2009 and 2010 with a strong defense and a powerful running game. Schottenheimer remembers the challenges of being a young coordinator, admitting that he thought he had all the answers back then. “You think you have all the answers, then you sit in that chair and realize you’re learning on the job,” he said.

The Jets have struggled since Schottenheimer left, cycling through 10 different playcallers, a situation he reflects on with appreciation. “I learned a lot… it was a humbling experience to understand that you never stop learning,” he stated.

As the Cowboys face the Jets, they will also see player T.J. Bass making his seventh start at guard. This is an essential moment for him as he heads toward becoming a restricted free agent after the season. If the Cowboys assign the lowest tender, he could attract offers from other teams.

In his previous starts, Bass has helped the Cowboys achieve at least 90 rushing yards in five games, showcasing their offensive prowess with multiple games scoring over 30 points. Yet, the Cowboys’ quarterbacks have been sacked nine times in total during Bass’ starts, which highlights the need for improvement.

Former cowboy quarterback Cooper Rush will make his first start for the Ravens Sunday while stepping in for an injured Lamar Jackson. Rush has been praised by teammates and staff for his strong understanding of the offense, following a successful stint in Dallas.

The Cowboys have a historical advantage over the Jets at MetLife Stadium, winning 11 out of 15 matchups there. However, they lost both of their last two games against the Jets at this venue, which adds pressure to avoid repeating past mistakes as these two teams enter the field.