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Todd Archer
LAS VEGAS — Following a decisive 33-16 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer exited the field at Allegiant Stadium to the roaring applause of fans, proudly showcasing a T-shirt honoring Marshawn Kneeland, the Cowboys’ defensive end who tragically lost his life on November 6 due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound after a short police pursuit.
«I would be dishonest if I said I didn’t shed some tears putting this shirt on,» Schottenheimer expressed, his voice thick with emotion. «Above all, I believe Marshawn was watching over us, and we aimed to make him proud. I feel we achieved that tonight.»
After their bye week, the Cowboys focused on team-building activities early last week, engaging in smaller group sessions with grief counselors. They held a candlelight vigil for Kneeland on Tuesday, and players mentioned it felt uplifting to return to practice on Thursday.
The players were determined to honor Kneeland through their performance.
«We aimed to play with the passion and intensity he brought,» said quarterback Dak Prescott, who threw four touchdown passes during the game. «This doesn’t end here. We’ll continue to shine a light on Marshawn’s legacy and elevate our game each week. He’ll always be part of our team.»
Defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton honored Kneeland by wearing a replica of his No. 94 jersey. The Cowboys plan to don shirts with Kneeland’s likeness again next week against the Philadelphia Eagles, with some players possibly choosing to wear them for the entire season.
In pregame warmups, the Raiders donned shirts that read “Call an Audible” on the front, with «988» on the back, directing individuals to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
«You have to push through pain; it’s an intrinsic part of the game. Although this is a different kind of pain, we can channel it,» Cowboys defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa remarked. «Not many will fully grasp this outside of football, but if you’ve faced adversity like this, you understand the weight of keeping on and transforming that pain into strength.»
Prescott noted a businesslike energy in the locker room before the game. Schottenheimer described a familiar concentration, punctuated by music, throughout. The defense had one of its most impressive performances, allowing only one touchdown and 236 yards. Raiders quarterback Geno Smith faced pressure on 16 of his 49 dropbacks, resulting in four sacks and 18 quarterback hits.
Prescott’s four touchdown passes were distributed among four different receivers: CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens, Ryan Flournoy, and tight end Jake Ferguson.
Flournoy shared a close friendship with Kneeland. Both Flournoy’s wife and Kneeland’s girlfriend, Catalina Mancera, also shared a strong bond, often going on double dates together.
Following his touchdown, Flournoy paused for a moment in reflection.
«Throughout this season, we’ll be playing for him,» Flournoy stated. «He was more than just a teammate; he was family. We’ll continue to play in his memory, carrying him with us. Though he’s gone physically, his spirit remains strong with us.»
