Mike Zimmer Takes Blame for Cowboys’ Defensive Struggles Against Saints

Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer has taken full responsibility for the team’s dismal defensive performance in their Week 2 loss to the New Orleans Saints. The Cowboys’ defense allowed a staggering 44 points and 432 yards, with the Saints scoring touchdowns on all five of their first-half possessions.

Zimmer was candid in his assessment, stating, “You know what, really most of the guys I didn’t coach up good enough. It really isn’t one spot. There were some things that we didn’t do well. We ran under some blocks. We had some perimeter-run force issues. But that’s me.”

Cowboys edge-rusher Micah Parsons also weighed in on the performance, noting that “the effort was not there” from the defense. He highlighted the stark contrast between this game and Week 1, where the Cowboys secured a 33-17 win over the Cleveland Browns, including two interceptions.

This recent performance has drawn comparisons to last year’s NFC Wild Card Round, where the Dallas defense, then under Dan Quinn, struggled to contain Jordan Love and the Green Bay Packers. While Zimmer is facing criticism, it is important to consider that defensive issues can be multifaceted and not solely the result of coaching.

The Cowboys are set to face another challenging opponent in Week 3, hosting Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry, and the Baltimore Ravens. If the defensive struggles continue, it may indicate deeper issues within the team beyond coaching alone).