Cowboys defensive coordinator Rob Ryan made headlines this week when he promised to “beat the ass” of “the all-hype team,” a clear shot at the Philadelphia Eagles.
In Dallas, the early reviews are that Ryan’s players loved it.
“I just like that he thinks we’re going to come out and kick people’s ass,” cornerback Orlando Scandrick said. “If he believes, we believe. . . . I love him. He’s a great guy to play for, a great personality. I think you’re going to see it rub off on this defense.”
The San Antonio Express-News reports that linebacker Bradie James could barely contain his grin when asked about Ryan’s comments, and James said he was motivated by his coach’s confidence.
“If that’s the way he wants to approach it, it’s our job to go out there and execute and make sure he doesn’t look the fool,” James said.
Having Ryan around is a sharp contrast from former Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips, who ran the team’s defense until he was fired midway through last season. Phillips has a reputation as one of the nicest coaches in the league, but the Cowboys’ defense seems to be inspired by having a coordinator who would rather talk about beating people’s asses than be known as a nice guy.
Albert Breer noted on NFL Network that there were concerns in Dallas last year that the Cowboys became too passive and not tough enough with Phillips running the show, and Cowboys COO Stephen Jones wants Ryan to “bring a swagger” to Dallas.
So Ryan’s comments are welcome in Dallas. Just as long as his defense follows through and whips the Eagles’ asses.