Joe Gibbs Roasts Christopher Bell Over Playful Dallas Cowboys Jab: A Lighthearted Clash of NFL Loyalties
Joe Gibbs, the legendary NASCAR team owner and former Washington Commanders (formerly Redskins) head coach, recently found himself in a humorous showdown with his rising star driver Christopher Bell over a cheeky NFL allegiance confession. During a sponsored interview with Interstate Batteries ahead of the Würth 400 at Texas Motor Speedway, Bell dropped a bombshell by declaring the Dallas Cowboys as his favorite NFL team—a direct jab at Gibbs’ deep-rooted ties to the rival Washington franchise .
The Rivalry Behind the Banter
The Cowboys-Commanders rivalry is one of the NFL’s fiercest, with Gibbs having coached Washington to three Super Bowl victories during his tenure (1981–1992). Gibbs once famously said, “If there’s anything I miss about the NFL, it’s this game. Redskins-Cowboys, there was nobody on the fence. You’re either one or the other” . Bell’s playful admission of supporting Dallas—Washington’s archrival—left Gibbs mock-outraged, quipping, “That is going to be on the floor. That will be edited out!” .
Bell’s Rising Star Status
The lighthearted exchange underscores Bell’s growing prominence at Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR). Since joining the team in 2021, Bell has evolved into a championship contender, dominating the 2025 season with three consecutive wins (Atlanta, COTA, and Phoenix) and securing consistent top-five finishes. Gibbs has even predicted a title for Bell, citing the No. 20 team’s chemistry and confidence as key factors .
Why the Cowboys Confession Matters
Bell’s Cowboys fandom isn’t just a personal preference—it’s a symbolic nod to the cultural divides in sports. For Gibbs, who built a legacy in both NASCAR and Washington football, the rivalry remains a sensitive spot. Yet, the roast highlights the camaraderie within JGR. Gibbs later praised Bell’s racing talent, emphasizing the thrill of watching him push limits on the track: “There is no limit. You can put the gas down as much as you want” .
A Broader Context: JGR’s Legacy and Bell’s Future
JGR, a five-time Cup Series champion team, has thrived under Gibbs’ leadership since 1992 . Bell’s success in 2025—following a near-miss in the 2024 Championship 4—positions him as a potential heir to JGR legends like Tony Stewart and Kyle Busch. Gibbs’ faith in Bell reflects his coaching instincts: “When you get [great chemistry], it’s a great feeling as a coach or owner. That’s what we have with the 20 team” .
The Cowboys-Redskins rivalry may be decades old, but Bell’s playful jab and Gibbs’ mock indignation prove that sports allegiances never fade—even in NASCAR. Their exchange, while humorous, underscores the mutual respect and competitive drive fueling JGR’s success. As Bell gears up for potential championship glory, this moment serves as a reminder that even in high-stakes racing, a little rivalry-fueled banter keeps the team spirit alive. 🏈🏁
