The Dallas Cowboys boasted an impeccable home record in the 2023 regular season, but just two weeks into the new NFL year, the New Orleans Saints delivered a stunning 44-19 defeat to America’s Team.
The Cowboys had seemed poised to be NFC frontrunners after a convincing win over the Cleveland Browns in Week 1. However, the Saints, expected to be among the weakest teams this season, delivered a shocking performance.
New Orleans, led by Derek Carr, who had struggled for consistency in his first year as the Saints’ quarterback, ran roughshod over the Cowboys. Dallas’ defense was unable to contain the Saints, who scored touchdowns on their first six drives. This barrage resulted in a 41-19 lead at halftime, matching the most points the Cowboys have ever allowed in a half.
Saints offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak’s run schemes caused significant problems for the Cowboys’ defense, reminiscent of their 48-32 playoff loss to the Green Bay Packers. New Orleans became the first team since the 2021 Buffalo Bills to score on their first six drives and only the fifth team in the 21st century to achieve this.
Despite the arrival of new defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, who replaced Dan Quinn, the Cowboys’ defense was outplayed and outcoached. The offense, led by Dak Prescott, struggled to perform under such pressure.
The frustration among Cowboys fans reached a fever pitch, with calls for changes in the coaching staff circulating widely on social media. One fan’s anger took a dramatic turn when they reportedly airdropped a threatening message to everyone in the stadium. The message, captured in a viral social media post, read: “IF WE DON’T FIRE MIKE MCCARTHY I’M BEATING TF OUT EVERYBODY IN HERE.”
While the authenticity of the airdropped message remains unverified, it captured the heightened emotions of the fanbase. With the Cowboys now facing the Baltimore Ravens and starting the season at 0-2, there is mounting pressure to turn things around quickly.