Aug 16, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus looks on during the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Baltimore Ravens at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

'Excruciatingly Embarrassing': Skip Bayless Urges Cowboys To Fire Member of Coaching Staff

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics
By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Oct 15, 2025 8:10 AM ET

After the Dallas Cowboys’ disappointing loss to the Carolina Panthers, analyst Skip Bayless did not hold back in his criticism of the team’s defensive coordinator, Matt Eberflus. Following a game where the team’s defense allowed an alarming 30 points, Bayless took to social media to urge owner Jerry Jones to make a drastic decision regarding the coaching staff.

He described the defensive performance as “excruciatingly embarrassing,” particularly highlighting a critical play that allowed former Dallas running back Rico Dowdle to score easily. Dowdle, who had spent the previous season with the Dallas, showcased his skills against his former team, racking up impressive yardage both on the ground and through the air.

His 36-yard catch-and-run put the Panthers ahead in the third quarter, capping an 80-yard drive that exposed the weaknesses in the team’s defense. This performance underscored the struggles of Eberflus’s unit, which entered the game ranked last in total defense in the league.

Bayless’s call for Eberflus’s firing reflects a growing frustration among fans, who have witnessed a series of defensive collapses this season. The defense has struggled to contain opposing offenses, allowing receivers to run free and consistently giving up big plays. This lack of discipline and effectiveness has put immense pressure on the entire team, particularly on quarterback Dak Prescott, who has had to rally the team under increasingly challenging circumstances.

Skip Bayless Urges Dallas Cowboys to Fire Defensive Coach Matt Eberflus

Bayless blasted Dallas and suggested the franchise fire Eberflus right away. This can be seen in a tweet posted by the sports analyst on his official X account.

“IF POSSIBLE, THE DALLAS COWBOY DEFENSE LOOKS WORSE THAN EVER. JERRY SHOULD GO DOWN AND FIRE EBERFLUS RIGHT NOW. THIS IS JUST SO EXCRUCIATINGLY EMBARRASSING,” Bayless tweeted.

The Cowboys’ defensive woes have raised questions about the overall strategy under Eberflus, especially his preference for zone coverage, which has been criticized by players like Trevon Diggs. As the team prepares for a challenging schedule ahead, it is clear that changes may be necessary to improve performance on the field.

With the mounting pressure and fan discontent, the Cowboys face a pivotal moment in their season. Whether or not Jones heeds Bayless’s advice remains to be seen, but the urgency for change is palpable. If the defensive issues continue, it could lead to significant repercussions for the coaching staff and the team’s prospects moving forward.

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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