Wanting a pound of flesh after a piss-poor performance is normal behavior from a fan base, even if it’s on the overreaction spectrum.

But wanting a pound of flesh after continued putrid performances is absolutely warranted, and that’s where Dallas Cowboys fans are at with defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus after the team’s embarrassing 30-27 loss to the Carolina Panthers.

However, it doesn’t sound like the Cowboys are considering a change. While Brian Schottenheimer is seemingly second-guessing whether players believe they can execute Eberflus’ scheme, he also gave Eberflus a pretty loud endorsement after the loss.

“Matt’s a great coach,” Schottenheimer said about why he believes Eberflus can fix the defense. “Everywhere he’s ever been, he’s had good defenses. It’s not just Matt by himself. Matt’s trying. The players are trying. This is not a lack of effort.”

Is that the quote from a head coach who is close to firing his defensive coordinator? While Schottenheimer doesn’t come across as a coach who will throw coaches or players under the bus, there is clearly a semblance of belief that Eberflus can right the ship.

Schottenheimer admittedly was backed into a corner (what else was he supposed to say?), but it sounds like Eberlfus will at least get one more week to save his job.

Another abomination in a losing effort against the division-rival Commanders next week could be what pushes Jerry Jones over the edge.

Whatever that breaking point is, Schottenehimer and the Jonses at least have to have a conversation about Eberflus. The Cowboys have the most prolific offense in football, and yet every game is a dogfight because the defense can’t stop anybody.

Allowing Bryce Young, who was 8-25 in his career as a starting quarterback before Sunday, to throw for three touchdowns and complete nearly 70 percent of his passes is arguably just as bad as allowing Russell Wilson to turn back the clock with 450 yards and 3 TDs in Week 2.

There admittedly aren’t great alternatives available outside of the organization, and there seemingly isn’t anyone in-house who deserves to call the defense. But the Joneses are staring down the barrel of wasting Dak Prescott’s best season if Eberflus continues to run the show.