When Cowboys defensive coordinator Rob Ryan sat down with NBC's Al Michaels for a prerecorded interview featured at halftime on Sunday, he certainly didn't have in mind how badly his unit would be dismantled by the Eagles.
The team was down 24-0 on when his chat with Michaels was aired.
One thing about Ryan, he doesn't attempt to hide anyting about himself. It's clear he wants to be a head coach in the NFL. Many have speculated he would only be in Dallas for a season, and indeed his star has risen this year as the Cowboys defense has improved.
Too many more games like Sunday's, when Ryan admitted he was out-coached, and he won't have to answer more questions like the ones he got from Michaels, about whether brother Rex Ryan in New York helps or hurts his case for a top job in the league.
"I know (Rex is) one of the most recognizable head coaches in football this year, and things like that," Rob Ryan said. "But, I mean, he's also gone to two AFC Championship games in a row. I mean, I don't think anybody else can say that. So, he's had an opportunity and he's done great with it. I'll be better than him, so I'll get my chance."
If Rex's style hasn't taken anything away from the job he's done in New York, and Rob is deemed worthy, his personality probably won't keep him from getting a head coaching position whenever that time comes.
Ryan would say after the Eagles game that he has to be better and smarter going forward. If he's able to do that and the defense gets back on track, he and the Cowboys will both get what they want, maybe sooner rather than later.
"I have great confidence in myself," Ryan told Michaels. "I came into Dallas, people said something about they couldn't play. Well, they can flat out play, and we're looking forward to proving that every Sunday, and I'll do the same as a head coach."
