Mike McCarthy reflects on Cowboys' embarrassing loss to Saints

Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy reflects on the team's disappointing loss to the New Orleans Saints.

Tim Heitman-Imagn Images

The Dallas Cowboys were thoroughly outplayed by the New Orleans Saints in a 44-19 rout on Sunday.

Derek Carr and the Saints offense landed the first blow and never looked back, leaving head coach Mike McCarthy and company reeling and searching for answers.

"I wouldn't say it's an effort issue," McCarthy told reporters during his Monday presser. "I think it really was they were quicker to the first punch than we were. They finished better than we did."

MORE: Dallas Cowboys' most glaring weaknesses entering Week 3 vs. Ravens

The Saints dominated from the outset, scoring on their first six possessions and building an insurmountable lead. McCarthy acknowledged the Saints' superior execution and ability to capitalize on opportunities.

Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy on yesterday’s loss to the Saints: “I wouldn’t say it’s an effort issue. I think it really was they were quicker to the first punch than we were. They finished better than we did.” pic.twitter.com/RQqOYBJdUb

— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) September 16, 2024

"They had a perfect game plan from the start," he admitted. "They used a combination of big plays in both the passing and running attacks in dominant fashion."

When asked about his reaction to watching the game film, McCarthy's disappointment was evident.

"I wouldn't say I was surprised," he admitted. "I was disappointed like everyone else. We did not improve from Week 1 to Week 2, that was the biggest disappointment.”

Despite the lopsided score, McCarthy remains optimistic about his team's potential. He believes they have the talent and determination to bounce back from this setback.

"We have a lot of football left to play," he affirmed. "We'll learn from this experience and come back stronger."

The Cowboys will look to regroup and refocus as they prepare for their next challenge against the Baltimore Ravens at home.

McCarthy and his coaching staff will undoubtedly analyze the game film and identify areas for improvement ahead of Week 3.

— Enjoy free coverage of the Cowboys from Dallas Cowboys on SI —

4 takeaways from Cowboys' abysmal loss vs. Saints in Week 2

3 winners & 5 losers from Cowboys brutal loss to Saints in Week 2

Cowboys' top plays & highlights vs. Saints in Week 2 home opener

Dallas Cowboys Week 2: Ranking top 5 Players of the Week

Micah Parsons takes blame off defensive coordinator after allowing 44 points

Meet Abby Summers: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Rookie