Mike McCarthy press conference: Chidobe Awuzie should be back, possible Trevon Diggs, Donovan Wilson practice

Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy met with the media after his team had their biggest margin-of-victory win over the Bengals. Let’s check in what coach had to say. (All answers are paraphrased and not actual quotes).

Questions about McCarthy’s job security

McCarthy said like all coaches you keep your nose down and continue to grind. You understand how it works and the media’s job, but you just stay focused on the job.

Building on a win

Coach noted it is important to stack success, that’s the way to grow as a team. He thought the young corners battled thru injury and young guys on special teams played well.

The team’s effort and finishing mindset

Coach was emphatic that they want to win, there was a good vibe in the meeting rooms, and it’s a hard working group. He enjoys working here, and likes what they are building. He said the team recognizes the opportunity left and wants to make the best of it.

On the same page with the Joneses?

Coach said both guys (Jerry and Stephen) are excellent communicators, and they talk at length about everything. McCarthy likes the structure here, and with Will McClay, they have a very healthy dialogue.

Zeke’s production declining over the years

Coach simply noted that they grade the tape, and they understand the numbers of what he’s done in the past. He commented that there have been so many changes this year but he appreciates how Zeke does his job.

Trevon Diggs coming back? Who else?

McCarthy said that Saivion Smith will try to go on Weds. and they’ll get more information tomorrow from the trainers. He also said they will hopefully get Trevon Diggs and Donovan Wilson on the field for Weds. but those are maybes. He’ll have to wait until Weds. to know.

Dalton Schultz 50 catches

Coach really likes the year he is having, that he’s played well in the passing game and run game and protection. He called him a smart and instinctive player, but also very consistent.

Chidobe Awuzie return?

Coach anticipates Awuzie will be back on Weds.

The job Kellen Moore has done

McCarthy observed it’s been a challenge for him with the all the injuries on offense, but he’s very consistent in how he approaches the job. His emotion is very consistent, and that’s important in leadership.

Mike McCarthy adjustment to not calling plays

Coach noted he has a role on game day like everyone else. There are things he pays close attention to and focuses on game management. He said he follows all three phases and adds to the situation of where he can. Notably, he said he is comfortable in this new role.

O-line play on Sunday

Coach thought they did some really good things but struggled running the ball because of issues on the backside. He said the big thing was the offense didn’t have any turnovers and the o-line helped keep them in a healthy mix of run pass.

Nickel personnel/Jourdan Lewis

McCarthy said Lewis has payed well the last two weeks. His play style and skill-set with the ability to challenge with pressure is good for the position.

Tyrone Crawford two sacks

McCarthy noted everybody roots for him because of the leader he is, and those were big-time plays. He said he got a healthy rotation of 30+ plays and with his versatility he can play the 7, 9, all the way down to a 3. He is happy when guys like him have success.