The Dallas Cowboys’ first preseason game of the 2025 season was a stark wake-up call for fans and players alike. Facing off against the Los Angeles Rams on Saturday night, the Cowboys came out flat, displaying a shocking lack of energy that left head coach Brian Schottenheimer’s offseason mantra ringing hollow. After months of preaching relentless effort and high-octane play at every practice, Schottenheimer’s vision for a reinvigorated Cowboys squad fell apart in a dismal opening quarter that has fans reeling.
The numbers tell a brutal story. The Cowboys were outgained 140-1 in the first quarter alone, a statistic so lopsided it’s hard to fathom. By the time the second quarter began, the gap had widened to an embarrassing 160-1, as noted by Clarence Hill in a scathing tweet before the first quarter even ended. The Rams’ offense dominated early, marching 79 yards on 11 plays for a touchdown on their opening drive, with Blake Corum punching in a two-yard score. The Cowboys’ offense, meanwhile, managed a lifeless three-and-out, handing the ball back to Los Angeles. The Rams capitalized with a 13-play, 64-yard drive, capped by another Corum touchdown from four yards out.
Cowboys have been outgained 140-1
— Clarence Hill Jr (@clarencehilljr) August 9, 2025
This lethargic performance was particularly jarring given Schottenheimer’s emphasis on energy throughout the offseason. The new head coach had made it clear he wanted his players to leave everything on the field, a direct response to the lackluster effort that plagued the team under the previous coaching regime. Yet, in their first opportunity to showcase this new identity, the Cowboys looked disjointed and uninspired. Even former Cowboys star Dez Bryant took notice, calling out the team’s nonexistent energy on social media.
We don’t have no energy at all
— Dez Bryant (@DezBryant) August 9, 2025
While the preseason doesn’t count toward the regular season standings, it serves as a critical testing ground for building momentum and fine-tuning execution. For a team looking to rebound from past criticisms of being unprepared and lacking intensity, this debut was a step backward. The Cowboys’ lone yard in the first quarter is more than just a stat—it’s a glaring red flag that the team’s offseason hype has yet to translate to the field.
The good news? There’s still time to turn things around. The preseason offers a chance to iron out wrinkles, and Schottenheimer has weeks to refocus his squad before the regular season kicks off. However, if the Cowboys carry this lackadaisical approach into September, they’ll be in for a rude awakening against teams ready to exploit their sluggishness. Fans are left hoping this horrific statline is a one-off blip rather than a sign of deeper issues. For now, the message is clear: Dallas needs to find the spark Schottenheimer promised, and fast.