Wink Martindale Called Cowboys’ DC ‘Outclassed’ and Dallas Has No Answer

The Cowboys’ brutal loss to the Ravens in Rio wasn’t just a gut punch, it was a total breakdown, with all three phases of the team failing when it mattered most. The offense blew a first and goal from the two-yard line with 20 seconds left, unable to convert for a game-winning touchdown. Special teams served up favorable field position on the kickoff after a game-tying field goal. And then the defense allowed the Ravens to march downfield, giving up enough yards to set up the game-winning field goal.

The Mess in Dallas Is Deeper Than One Loss

While the blame can ultimately land on head coach Brian Schottenheimer, who many are saying shouldn’t be learning the job of being an effective head coach while on the job, the defense continues to be a massive problem for Dallas. It’s not just a rough patch, it’s a recurring issue that’s clearly catching the attention of those who know the game best.

“Outclassed” is the Word Nobody in Dallas Wants to Hear

Long-time NFL and college defensive coach Wink Martindale didn’t mince words about the situation on his latest appearance on Talkin’ Ball with Pat Leonard. He went straight for the jugular when talking about Cowboys defensive coordinator Christian Parker.

“I don’t want to be an asshole but he’s being outclassed right now,” Martindale said, pulling no punches. He didn’t stop there, either, actually offering a solution: “So Jerry [Jones] can call me and I’ll go help him. But, you know, I’m talking about helping the coordinator.”

Martindale hit on the core issue: matching a head coach who is learning the job on the fly with a defensive coordinator who is also learning on the fly just “isn’t ideal.” This isn’t just an opinion; it’s a veteran coach pointing directly at a systemic coaching problem. Dallas needs to figure this out, fast, or these “outclassed” performances are going to become the norm for the entire season.

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Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.