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The Dallas Cowboys are on the brink of winning the NFC East, but the job security of head coach Mike McCarthy is far from certain. Despite preparing for their third playoff campaign under McCarthy, the team has only managed to secure one postseason win in the past two years.
According to ESPN insider Adam Schefter, there are doubts about McCarthy's future with the Cowboys. Schefter indicated that if the Cowboys suffer a significant loss in the playoffs, McCarthy's position may be in jeopardy. He stated: "There continues to be a feeling from people around the league, and even some within the Cowboys organization, that coach Mike McCarthy will be measured by how Dallas' final game goes."
The Cowboys have struggled under McCarthy, recording a 1-2 playoff record, with both losses coming at the hands of the San Francisco 49ers. This season, the 49ers have once again emerged as a formidable opponent, having previously defeated Dallas 42-10.
In the midst of this uncertainty, defensive coordinator Dan Quinn is also in the spotlight. Quinn, who has been instrumental in transforming the Cowboys' defense into one of the NFL's most explosive, is being considered for a head coaching role elsewhere. Schefter suggested that Dallas is keen to retain Quinn, stating: "The Cowboys do not want to lose Quinn, according to sources, and there are questions about what Dallas would be willing to do to keep him."
Dallas should be very careful of the Commanders
The upcoming game against the Washington Commanders holds significant importance for the Cowboys. Despite Washington's 4-12 season record and a previous 45-10 victory for Dallas, there is a sense of caution following a similar situation at the end of the 2022 season. In that instance, Dallas suffered a devastating 26-6 loss to Washington, which ultimately impacted their playoff prospects.
This year's game against Washington holds even greater weight. A victory would secure a home playoff game for Dallas and potentially help them avoid facing the formidable 49ers until the NFC Championship game. Conversely, a loss would see them entering the postseason on a much more subdued note.
The uncertainty surrounding McCarthy's future and the potential departure of Dan Quinn adds an extra layer of complexity to the Cowboys' playoff aspirations. As they gear up for this crucial game, the stakes couldn't be higher for both the team and their coaching staff.