In the moments before the start of the match between the Dallas Cowboys and the Philadelphia Eagles, Brian Schottenheimer will perform a personal ritual. He will place his right hand over his heart, close his eyes, and bow his head in a sign of respect.This gesture is a moment of connection with two important figures in his life: God and his father, Marty.“He is my idol, the person I admired since I was a little boy,” declared the new Cowboys coach.Schottenheimer will ask his father for strength to guide his players, seeking his presence and hoping to make him proud. They will be intimate conversations, similar to those they would have if his father were present.The excitement is palpable when remembering this moment, even before the start of the season. The match will mark the return of a Schottenheimer as head coach in the NFL after 6,808 days, since January 14, 2007.Schottenheimer feels the responsibility to honor his father’s legacy, who was an influential figure in his life and career.Marty Schottenheimer, who passed away in 2021 at the age of 77, after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2014, was a coach in the NFL for 21 years. He achieved 200 regular season victories, an accomplishment that positions him among the most successful coaches in history. However, he was never able to lead his team to win a Super Bowl.Brian y Marty Schottenheimer conversando antes de un partido, cuando Brian era el coordinador ofensivo de los New York Jets.In 2006, Brian served as the offensive coordinator for the New York Jets, separating from his father, with whom he had worked in Kansas City, Washington, and San Diego. Brian, at 33 years old, was considered a promising candidate for head coach, interviewing for several positions in the following years.Marty Schottenheimer began his head coaching career at 41 years old with the Cleveland Browns. During his time with the Browns, the team suffered painful defeats in the AFC championships. Brian vividly remembers those moments, feeling the devastation of the losses.The connection and camaraderie between the players are fundamental values for Schottenheimer, who seeks to replicate that spirit in the Cowboys.Marty Schottenheimer fue el entrenador en jefe de los Cleveland Browns desde 1984, cuando asumió en calidad de interino, hasta 1988.On January 14, 2007, Brian was present at what would be his father’s last game as a coach. That day, Marty’s Chargers, with an impressive record, suffered a defeat in the AFC championship. A month later, Marty was fired, despite having had a successful season.Brian acknowledges the impact that not winning the Super Bowl had on his father, a longing that transcended the personal and extended to all those who had worked alongside him.Schottenheimer often shares stories about his father with his players, conveying his philosophy and coaching style. Younger players, such as Cooper Beebe and Jake Ferguson, have heard stories about Marty, learning about his influence on the game.Dak Prescott has also heard stories about Marty Schottenheimer, highlighting his strong character and dedication.Brian Schottenheimer comienza su carrera como entrenador en jefe de la NFL el jueves, cuando los Cowboys viajen a Filadelfia para enfrentarse a los Eagles, los actuales campeones.After being named Cowboys coach, Schottenheimer received a special package. Inside, he found a “Martyball” jersey and a replica of the Vince Lombardi trophy inscribed with “The Gleam”.In 1986, NFL Films captured Marty’s message to his Browns: “There’s a gleam, men. Let’s get the gleam.” For Brian, “The Gleam” represents the Super Bowl, the ultimate goal.The emotion invaded Brian when he opened the package, a moment that deeply moved him. On Thursday, the emotion will be the protagonist again when he starts his first season as coach of the Cowboys. His father, his best friend, will be present in his heart.
