In a recent segment on his show, Emmanuel Acho had some things to say about Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. The host of “The Facility” explained his reasoning as to why NFL fans shouldn’t set unrealistic expectations for head coach Brian Schottenheimer.
Emmanuel Acho Says Dak Prescott Isn’t a ‘Next-Level Quarterback’
The crew for “The Facility” on FS1 sat down to discuss the latest happenings around the Cowboys after the team held an introductory press conference for its new head coach. Ultimately, the discussion became centered around what expectations fans could place on Schottenheimer.
Acho spoke realistically, noting how the franchise lacks a breakthrough recipe for Super Bowl contention on either side of the ball.
“No, it’s not realistic for Schottenheimer to take the Cowboys to a Super Bowl because the Cowboys lack two things. No. 1, they lack a generational defense. And it is imperative that you have a generational defense if you do not have that next-level quarterback.”
“Unless the Cowboys intend on having the 2000 [Baltimore] Ravens defense — they had two Hall of Famers — the 2002 [Tampa Bay Buccaneers] defense — they had three Hall of Famers — the 2013 Seattle Seahawks defense — they had probably two or three Hall of Famers — or the 2015 Denver Broncos defense which had two Hall of Famers — the Cowboys need an elite dude at quarterback.”
.@EmmanuelAcho on whether it’s realistic for Brian Schottenheimer to deliver the Cowboys a Super Bowl:
“It’s not possible because the Cowboys lack 2 things: A generational defense and a next level QB…” pic.twitter.com/kXsSKlVie1
— The Facility (@TheFacilityFS1) January 28, 2025
Acho continued with his assessment, pointing out how the quarterbacks playing in the AFC and NFC Championships have proven to be game-changers, even if one was only in his first season.
“Cowboys fans, at this point in time, you realize you need a game-changer at quarterback unless you go out and get a generational defensive and/or roster. Say what you will about Jayden Daniels, but he’s proven that he’s a game-changer. Josh Allen in the Final Four — proven he’s a game-changer. Patrick Mahomes — proven.”
“You can discredit Jalen Hurts all you want. … Come on, man, Jalen’s good. He’s good. And the [Philadelphia] Eagles team is generational, and their defense is elite.”
There isn’t much to write home about Acho’s observations on Prescott and the Cowboys. Through nine NFL seasons, Prescott has yet to record a playoff run with more than a single win. The Cowboys have almost constantly been contenders for this stretch in terms of roster strength. He’s had good defenses, a good offensive line, and help at the skill positions.
By this point, there seems to be a clear ceiling on the level of play that Prescott has exhibited, especially in high-leverage moments. Dallas has also handicapped itself by handing him a $60 million AAV contract, meaning they would need to compromise on other areas of roster construction. Unfortunately for America’s Team, there is no sign of light at the end of their dark tunnel.
