Sports
Mike McCarthy’s grudging praise oozes sadness over the Commanders combo
There are several fascinating storylines surrounding the Washington Commanders’ next game versus the Dallas Cowboys. This is one of the league’s most historic rivalries. One that will be spiced up in 2024 as a result of the two clubs’ increasing connections.
This was all about Dan Quinn’s move from Dallas to Washington to become the team’s head coach. Several coaches accompanied the respected character to the Commanders. The same is true for out-of-contract players, who all jumped at the opportunity to work with him again in a different setting.
Their decision is paying off.
Despite losses to the Pittsburgh Steelers and Philadelphia Eagles, two of the NFL’s finest teams, the Commanders remain in strong playoff contention. Things aren’t going so well in Dallas, which is in utter freefall with seemingly no hope for 2024.
One of the key causes of their downfall is a lack of defense. The Commanders have suffered a significant loss in free agency by losing Dante Fowler Jr. and Dorance Armstrong Jr. They were not replaced efficiently enough, and the Cowboys paid a high price.
Mike McCarthy praises Commanders’ pass-rushing duo before Week 12
Dallas’ head coach, Mike McCarthy, confessed this while praising the pass-rushing combo with gritted teeth. He also wished them nothing but pain this weekend, escalating the tensions before of the divisional showdown.
“Those guys went with an opportunity that they felt they needed to do. Everybody’s situation is different. I’m proud of those guys. They’re playing very well. Dante’s off the charts. DA is so damn consistent in the way he’s played. The video I’ve seen of him, I’ve been very impressed. That’s how this game works. The financial component, it changes your team every year. That’s why this is always such a challenge. It changes the dynamic. I’m happy that they got a great opportunity, and I hope they play like s–t Sunday.”
This is largely the sentiment among the persons involved. There is mutual respect, but this is strictly business. The Commanders face big stakes as they try to get their postseason hopes back on track. Dallas is playing spoiler, which is unusual in this game but something they will strive for.
McCarthy is feeling the fire. He is out of contract at the conclusion of the season and does not want his former defensive coordinator to add to his sorrow. Dallas may have motivation, but there is a severe lack of on-field talent.
Commanders must grab the situation. Fowler and Armstrong will play critical roles in any success that comes their way. Dallas’ offensive line is far from its former glory, so they have an opportunity to assert themselves and make failing quarterback Cooper Rush more uncomfortable than ever.
If this scenario plays out and the Commanders turn the tide on recent Cowboys losses, McCarthy might be forgiven for feeling even more remorseful about the way owner/general manager Jerry Jones handled roster matters throughout the offseason. Even though he’ll have to pay the price in the end.