Dan Quinn’s motivational tactic has Cowboys inching toward turnover rate not seen in 50 years
Cowboys defensive coordinator Dan Quinn has players autograph a photograph and football after they create a turnover as a motivational source, helping Dallas’ defense reach a feat unmatched since the ’70s.
Per Yahoo Sports’ Jori Epstein, Quinn gives a defender the football from a takeaway he created, which the player signs along with a photograph of the play. He places the footballs in a cage and pictures on a shelf in Dallas’ defensive meeting room for the entire unit to look at as an affirmation.
While it may sound like an odd tactic, the results dismiss skeptics who may scoff at it.
Through 15 games, the Cowboys defense leads the league in total turnovers (30), turnover differential (+12) and points off turnovers (110).
Every turnover increases Dallas’ hunger and creates a tight bond within the unit since multiple players have an opportunity to shine.
“Week to week, we have different guys stepping up, and everybody in our room gets treated the same way,” Dallas safety Jayron Kearse told Epstein.
The cohesiveness created one of the top defenses in the league. If Dallas holds on to its turnover lead, it will join Pittsburgh (1972-74) as the only defense to lead the NFL in turnovers for consecutive seasons over the past 51 years.
That Steelers defense is one of the greatest ever. It included Pro Hall of Famers Joe Greene, Mel Blount and Jack Ham, lifting Pittsburgh to four Super Bowls.
Replicating the accomplishment is an honor for the Cowboys and proves the gimmick works.
