The Dallas Cowboys entered Ford Field needing a victory, but instead, the Detroit Lions dominated, securing a 44-30 win. Now, according to *USA Today*, Dallas’s playoff chances have plummeted to just 7 percent. And a Cowboys legend has publicly voiced his frustration, offering a blunt assessment.
Shortly after the loss, tensions flared on X. A fan questioned former Dallas WR, Dez Bryant, about head coach Matt Schottenheimer’s performance. Known for his composure, Bryant responded with honesty.
“I like him. Jerry and Stephen have to give him a real chance to lead the team!” Bryant replied, urging Jerry Jones and his son Stephen Jones to trust Schottenheimer with the team.
Throughout the season, Jerry Jones had faced constant criticism. He’d invested in George Pickens and Quinnen Williams, moves that looked bold on paper. However, the Cowboys Nation hadn’t forgotten Micah Parsons’ departure. On Thursday night, the silver and blue desperately needed his presence.
[Image of Dez Bryant’s X post]
Right now, Dallas is technically still in contention, but the playoff heartbeat is fading fast in North Texas. The next week and a half promises to be challenging for the front office. Jerry Jones is likely to face increased scrutiny following this defeat. Meanwhile, George Pickens had a quiet night at the worst possible time.
Pickens and Dak Prescott didn’t appear in sync at all; at one point, the two exchanged animated words, captured by the cameras. Former Pro Bowl corner and Prime Video analyst Richard Sherman delivered a sharp take.
“Pickens looked uninterested.” Sherman’s assessment was backed up by the tape.
George Pickens struggled inside Ford Field and never looked comfortable.
With CeeDee Lamb ruled out early in the second half, Cowboys Nation expected George Pickens to step up. Instead, he struggled and never looked comfortable. Then, after the loss, Richard Sherman didn’t hold back on Prime Video, calling his five-catch, 37-yard night “unacceptable.”
Sherman doubled down, stating that elite receivers perform in big moments and great receivers don’t disappear. However, Pickens didn’t push back on that idea.
When asked about Sherman’s comments, the Cowboys’ receiver said, “For myself personally, you can’t just disappear.”
Pickens then elaborated, explaining the Lions’ scheme and how the game flow felt tough all night. “It just didn’t go our way.”
The loss ended a three-game streak and dropped the silver and blue to 6-6-1. The Cowboys get a short rest before facing the Minnesota Vikings under the lights in Arlington. They must win from now on.