Eagles Defensive Coordinator Mike Zimmer Addresses Team's Struggles

FRISCO, Texas — Mike Zimmer has felt this sting before. He remembers it all too well, and he referenced it directly shortly after being rehired as the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator this offseason. The ‘it’ in this scenario is the infamous ‘Pickle Juice Game’, which reignited a trauma within Zimmer.

“I think the biggest thing is, like last week, don't get too high and, this week, don't get too low,” said Zimmer on Monday following the shellacking. “We’ve got a lot of areas that we need to improve in.”

Zimmer acknowledged his responsibility for the poor performance, especially after a solid defensive display the previous week against Cleveland. The Cowboys' inability to stop the run paved the way for Derek Carr to dominate, throwing for 243 yards and two touchdowns.

He disputes suggestions of a lack of effort, stating, “I think we got lined up fine...and when they were moving guys, so I've just got to do a better job.”

He recalled how the 'Pickle Juice Game' became a turning point in his coaching philosophy. On Sept. 3, 2000, the Cowboys faced the Eagles, led by an impressive performance by Duce Staley, who ran for 201 yards. This game marked a pivotal moment for Zimmer, prompting his commitment to stop the run effectively.

Zimmer concluded, “Yeah, I talked to [the defense] today for a while...things I need to do better and we'll just keep working on it.” If he doesn't fix the issues promptly, the Cowboys might truly find themselves in a pickle come 2024.