Mike McCarthy’s tenure with the Dallas Cowboys is approaching a defining moment, and fans are growing increasingly restless. Following three consecutive 12-5 seasons and regular playoff appearances, the Cowboys now find themselves at a dismal 3-7, facing their first playoff absence since McCarthy’s debut in 2020. But the team’s struggles extend beyond the record—they are now embroiled in a quarterback crisis that has left fans questioning the organization’s direction.
With Dak Prescott sidelined for the season due to a hamstring injury, McCarthy has pinned the team’s hopes on Cooper Rush. Unfortunately, Rush has failed to inspire confidence, losing both starts since taking over. Despite these setbacks, McCarthy announced this week that Rush will remain the starting quarterback for Sunday’s matchup against the Washington Commanders, opting to keep Trey Lance on the bench. This decision has unleashed a wave of frustration and disbelief from Cowboys fans.
Critics were quick to voice their anger on social media. “This is not a serious football team,” one fan declared, while another questioned the decision to trade a fourth-round pick for Lance if he wasn’t going to play. Calls for McCarthy’s dismissal have grown louder, with some fans pleading, “Fire the man!” and others demanding to see Lance in action: “Dude, just play Lance.” The discontent reflects a growing sentiment that McCarthy’s choices are hindering the team’s progress.
Adding fuel to the fire, team owner Jerry Jones defended the decision to stick with Rush during a radio appearance, stating, “We’re going to go with the quarterback that gives us the best chance to win the game.” However, after the Cowboys’ humiliating 34-10 loss to the Houston Texans, fans are skeptical of Rush’s ability to deliver. That game saw the Texans dominate on both sides of the ball, with Joe Mixon torching the defense for 109 yards and three touchdowns, while Rush struggled, throwing an interception and losing a fumble that was returned for a touchdown.
McCarthy, visibly frustrated, tried to analyze the team’s shortcomings, emphasizing their inability to make critical plays and criticizing the offensive line for costly mistakes. However, his comments did little to reassure fans. As the Cowboys prepare for their game against the Commanders, the spotlight remains on McCarthy and his controversial QB decision. The question lingers: Is this truly the best path forward for the Cowboys? Fans aren’t convinced—and they’re not staying quiet.