Cowboys' Jones: 'I shouldn't be this frustrated'
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones didn't mince his words Sunday after his team once again fell short against a top contender, losing by a score of 13-9 to the New England Patriots.
"With the makeup of this team, I shouldn't be this frustrated," said Jones, according to team writer David Helman.
The 6-5 Cowboys sit atop the NFC East through 12 weeks but are arguably far from the level of the top teams in a stacked conference.
Dallas' six wins have come against teams with a combined record of 16-49-1. The Cowboys have lost to various playoff-bound squads, such as the Patriots, New Orleans Saints, Green Bay Packers, and Minnesota Vikings.
"It is a significant setback for our team. We needed this win. We needed to win against an opponent like this," said Jones, according to Jon Machota of The Athletic. "We haven't had them. Consequently, we're very aware of that."
Jones took a particular issue with Dallas' costly issues on special teams during the loss to the Patriots, saying the unit's woes are "totally a reflection of coaching," according to Jeff Darlington of ESPN.
"I don't think there's a game where a coaching staff couldn't do better," Jones added, according to Helman. "I don't like that we've got so many as I'm standing here tonight."
New England's only touchdown in the game came after a blocked punt put the Patriots in good field position.
The Cowboys had another hiccup on special teams in the third quarter when they were confused by the Patriots' decision to not put a returner deep to receive and were called for an illegal procedure that negated a 47-yard punt.
Embattled Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett - who is in a contract year - was widely criticized for having his team kick a field goal with it down seven points late in the fourth quarter.
Dallas was able to get the ball back to attempt a potentially game-winning touchdown drive with two minutes left, but Dak Prescott and Co. ultimately turned it over on downs to all but seal the victory for New England.