For the past three seasons, Mike McCarthy has been at the center of the Dallas Cowboys’ aspirations and frustrations. A seasoned head coach with a Super Bowl pedigree, McCarthy was hired to push “America’s Team” over the hump. But now, as we stare down the aftermath of another playoff run—or its untimely demise—the question deserves a real answer: Is McCarthy the right man for this job?

Point: McCarthy Has Earned His Place

Let’s start with the obvious—McCarthy inherited a team in disarray. Jason Garrett’s tenure left a roster that was talented but lacked discipline and consistency in critical moments. McCarthy’s first season in 2020 was marred by injuries, including Dak Prescott’s season-ending ankle injury, but since then, he’s steadily delivered results.

Back-to-back 12-win seasons in 2021 and 2022 were the Cowboys’ best stretch since the 1990s dynasty years. Under McCarthy, the team has improved defensively, thanks in part to his decision to hire Dan Quinn as defensive coordinator. Micah Parsons has blossomed into a superstar, and the team has consistently finished near the top in takeaways. Offensively, the Cowboys have remained potent, even amid challenges like Ezekiel Elliott’s decline and injuries to key players.

Critics point to McCarthy’s game management as a weakness, but it’s worth noting he’s shown improvement. His willingness to relinquish play-calling duties to Kellen Moore (until this season) and focus on the bigger picture demonstrates adaptability. In a league where sustained success is rare, McCarthy has turned the Cowboys into perennial contenders—a step forward from the Garrett era.

Counterpoint: Good Is Not Good Enough

While McCarthy’s tenure has brought stability, it’s hard to argue he’s brought the Cowboys closer to their ultimate goal—a Super Bowl. The playoff exits tell the real story. Last year’s Divisional Round loss to the 49ers was marred by poor clock management and questionable play-calling. For all his experience, McCarthy has yet to shake the perception that his teams underperform in high-stakes moments.

Even during the regular season, the Cowboys have struggled against elite competition. Critics argue that McCarthy’s conservative tendencies—particularly in key moments—hold the team back. And now that he’s reclaimed play-calling duties, the offensive inconsistency falls squarely on his shoulders.

This is Dallas, where expectations are sky-high. It’s not enough to rack up regular-season wins and playoff appearances. McCarthy was hired to lead the Cowboys to a championship, and three years in, there’s no clear indication that he’s the man to get them there.

Verdict

As the 2023 season unfolds, McCarthy’s fate may hinge on what happens in the playoffs. The clock is ticking, and the Cowboys need more than incremental progress—they need results. If McCarthy can’t deliver, it might be time for Jerry Jones to start looking elsewhere.