Cowboys McCarthy On Schottenheimer: 'He Gave Us A Road Map For Life'

Marty Schottenheimer, who passed away this week at the age of 77 after a long battle with Alzheimer's, leaves an NFL mark far greater than wins and losses.

"I know the impact he’s had on so many of us,'' eulogized Dallas Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy, "and the legacy he leaves behind will always be felt.”

Schottenheimer coached in the NFL for 20 seasons and for four different teams as head coach. The width and depth of those he touched is enormous.

Said McCarthy, the Cowboys head coach who got his NFL start as a quality control assistant in Kansas City in 1993:

“If it wasn’t for Marty Schottenheimer, I wouldn’t be saying this – because I wouldn’t be where I am today. Marty gave me my first NFL opportunity in 1993, but it was so much more than that, he gave this young coach a road map for life. Marty’s fingerprints can still be felt all over so many things I do every day as a coach. But it is what he taught me as a man that I’ll be forever grateful for.

"Professionally, Marty was the first man I saw open his heart and emotionally reveal himself. He was ‘Pittsburgh Proud’ and the definition of authenticity and genuineness. The six years I spent with him were the most important and impactful years of my coaching career. He was always teaching and emphasizing – even in my first game as a head coach in 2006 which happened to be against Marty.

"It was ugly. After the game, when we shook hands, he patted me on the back said, ‘Kid, trust me – it’ll get better – but don’t ever forget, make sure to do it your own way.’ Almost 15 years later, I still lean on those words.''

The Cleveland Browns, Kansas City Chiefs, San Diego Chargers and Washington were his employers, and Schottenheimer's teams won eight division titles along with eight second-place finishes.

In those two decades, Schottenheimer only had a losing record twice. He had a 200-126-1 record in the regular season, which is eighth all-time in head coaching wins, but forged only a 5-13 mark in the playoffs. Schottenheimer -- known as a tough, run first, conservative coach is the only man in NFL history with 200 or more wins and yet to never get to a Super Bowl.

His legacy, though, is a wonderful one. His son, Brian, has been a long-time offensive coordinator in the NFL. His daughter Kristen has talked at length about her Dad and his health struggles.

"Marty exemplified strength and passion – which wasn’t always in your favor,'' McCarthy said. "Anyone who worked for Marty will attest, you’ve never had your ass chewed until Marty Schottenheimer did it. I’ve still got the scars to prove it – and for that I am forever thankful.''

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