The glare of the setting sun at AT&T Stadium has become a controversial topic in the NFL, and it's about to take center stage once again. This issue, which affects the Dallas Cowboys' home field, has sparked debates and even prompted some to question the stadium's design. But is it really a problem, or just an excuse for missed catches?
The late afternoon sun has been a known issue since the Cowboys moved into their Arlington stadium in 2009. With 120-foot-tall sliding glass doors, the sun's rays can create a blinding glare for players on the field. This Sunday, as the Cowboys face their first late-afternoon game of the season, the topic has resurfaced, with coach Brian Schottenheimer addressing the challenge.
Schottenheimer, in a sarcastic tone, highlighted the extensive planning and satellite imaging they use to tackle the issue. He emphasized that both the Cowboys and their opponents plan for it, but the sun's majestic presence can still be a factor. And this is where it gets interesting - the impact of the sun's glare on the game is a point of contention.
Over the years, Cowboys receivers have had their fair share of complaints. From Dez Bryant and Brice Butler blaming missed catches on the sun in 2017 to Michael Gallup's dropped touchdown pass in 2022, the glare has been a recurring issue. Even CeeDee Lamb, wide open in the end zone last season, couldn't see the ball due to the sun's brightness.
Lamb's suggestion of curtains during late-afternoon games didn't go down well with Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, who dismissed the idea, questioning the need to rebuild the stadium. But here's the twist - AT&T Stadium is one of only two NFL stadiums built on a southwest-northeast axis, with a unique transparent southwest end zone, making it susceptible to these sun-related challenges.
Dan Quinn, the Commanders' coach, knows the drill, having served as the Cowboys' defensive coordinator from 2021 to 2023. He acknowledges the potential impact of the sun this time of year and the need for strategic decisions to mitigate its effects.
So, is the sun to blame for missed catches, or is it a convenient excuse? The debate continues, and with the upcoming game, we might just get some answers. What do you think? Is the sun a legitimate factor, or are players and coaches overreacting? Let's discuss in the comments!
