Thoughts on the Cowboys/Redskins: I LOVE physical football
by Brandon Worley on Nov 17, 2008 1:00 PM CST
99 comments
When was the last time the Cowboys played true smash-mouth football, where the game was won by the offensive line and the defense laid out big hits and swarmed to the ball? Last year the Cowboys were pretty close to a true finesse team, where the offense carried the rest and defense did just enough to hold on. We saw what happened in the playoffs when the other team was more physical and out muscled the line of scrimmage and our finesse offense couldn't save the day (a hurt T.O. didn't help much either). The type of game the Cowboys played last night was exactly what the doctor ordered: a physical, down to the wire game that showed this team does have the heart and drive to win a close one when things aren't going perfect. The win last year against Buffalo is a great example of this. This team can build on a win like that and really carry some confidence into the next few weeks, where gaining momentum for a playoff run is now a very real possibility.
Follow the jump for my random thoughts on a great win.
- Tony Freakin' Romo. It was obvious he wasn't back to being his old self physically and that the splint was hampering some of his throws. A couple of times he had some tosses that made you scratch your head a bit, like the first interception to Owens. He stated after the game that he didn't have the grip he wanted on that throw and it was obvious with how off it was. There was also another quick hitch to Owens that just had some weird loft to it. However, Romo's enthusiasm and magical touch were back and it was never more evident than on the third down shovel pass to Miles Austin.
- Romo might not have put up the greatest of numbers but it was plain to see what kind of effect he has on this team. Players on both sides of the ball played with confidence and aggressiveness and just seemed to have some fun out there while knowing how important this thing was. When things weren't going right you didn't see bickering or fingerpointing, you just saw guys talk it over and know that when they got another chance they would get it right. That was refreshing.
- Whatever effect Romo's return had on the team, Newman's was just as if not more important to the defense. He stuck on Santana Moss and allowed the safeties to play closer to the line in order to stop the Redskin's running attack. That wasn't able to happen when he was out or hurt, and I'm going to say this right now: That was Terence Newman's best game of his career.
- Keith Davis had one heck of a game. I'll have to go back and really look at it, but at least four times I saw Davis make a punishing hit in the hole against the run. That's exactly what you need from your strong safety: a guy that flies to the ball and makes the big hit when he gets there.
- Mike Jenkins had one pass breakup but you could almost single-handedly point to him as the problem on the big kickoff return before the half. Watching the replay it seemed like he was almost afraid to take on the wedge. I'm not sure, but I also don't think that's been his position on the kickoff coverage team this season. We may scoff, but the special teams missed Bobby Carpenter yesterday. Of course, they weren't much better with him either.
- The pass rush the past few weeks has been absolutely outstanding. Jim Zorn stated in his press conference that the rush the Cowboys were getting was dictating the play calls he had to make. When was the last time this defense dictated ANYTHING the opposing offense tried to do? That's how good the defense was yesterday.
- Rock Cartwright: I want to thank you. What the heck were you thinking? Let me introduce you to Leon Lett.......
- That drop by Jason Witten was jaw-dropping, mainly because it doesn't happen often. But the play call was what I loved the most. Those naked bootlegs are the plays when Romo is at his best, throwing on the run to receivers breaking free. However, I think the drop was partly due to the hurt rib that Witten has because it was obvious he had trouble stretching out for it.
- Speaking of play calling, good on ya Jason Garrett. You were willing to try some different things and really shake things up on offense. Those reverses and quick outs didn't amount to much, but it did have the effect of loosening up the defense that allowed other stuff to work. Two suggestions: less slants to T.O. and more RW2, and more no-huddle.
- Roy Williams is a stud and showed what can happen when he and Romo really start to get on the same page. That's going to be a magical duo for many years to come and I cannot begin to state how excited I am at the prospect. Plus it's great to have a Longhorn doing well on the team. Hook 'em.
- Terrell Owens, I love ya man. You have transformed yourself into the ultimate team player and you are just happy with winning. That is great. But you have got to start hanging onto the ball dude. I understand that you got hit pretty dang hard on that interception, but you get paid the big bucks to catch those too. If you truly think you are still an elite receiver, catch those. But, hey! Great blocking on the running plays.
- Finally, I want to talk about the celebration at the end of the game. That was just awesome, incredible, refreshing, any other superlative you want to use. That was what made that game so great for me. That celebration told me that this team FINALLY realizes what it needs to do to win and just how important these games have become. Last night we finally saw this group of talented individuals finally start to really gel as a team, which a great sign moving forward.
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great write-up
and I agree on all fronts
'he nails an open three from the corner....just like you and me, this one was made by penetration' - Truthaboutit - Round 1 Game 5 Recap
by KDP on Nov 17, 2008 1:09 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Agreed
Giants fan in the house to show props to where it belongs. Good game with hard hits, and big plays. Romo did the shuffle pass to my G-Men last season only it didn’t lead to a TD. And it wasn’t Austin it was Witten. But what I enjoyed the most of this game, from my bias standpoint, was that for once this season, the team the was suppose to be the one to beat, actually earned a hard fought victory against a division rival. It wasn’t Romo throwing for 350 4TD’s. It was Marion grinding out every yard, it was the stifling D, it was the hunger that I saw in that final quarter. Good game Cowboys. Maybe this team has something left. Only time will tell.
by ProudYankee on Nov 17, 2008 3:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
No Huddle
IMO, the offense clicks better when in a hurry up and Romo seems to play better when in an up tempo mode. I was saying this during the game, I too would like to see more of it.
by WestTxHornFan on Nov 17, 2008 1:14 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I love a physical football team
That can also explode on you, (like the Patriots last year). This is the sort of thing I expect by season’s end as Roy #11 becomes more integrated into the offense and Felix comes back healthy. No more games with only 14 points! I want to see a return to 28 and higher. This team should be able to erupt to a 21-0 lead and then pound the rock the rest of the way in route to a 37-14 win…
The defense did some things last night that we haven’t seen in the Wade Phillips era. Lots of press coverage and 4-6 packages. Finally! Let’s hope they continue to be innovate and look for ways to create favorable mismatches on the line for this talented group.
by gee-roj on Nov 17, 2008 1:24 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
who was in?
they kept talking about the 2-4-5 nickel package last night – couldn’t tell who the personnel were. anyone able to help me out here?
it was frustrating seeing campbell take off on that run up the middle but i guess you take some gambles with stunting and such to get good pressure. that and the back to back screen plays on 3rd down were frustrating.
by Scoobay on Nov 17, 2008 1:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The 2-4-5 is really our nickle...
With Ware and Ellis at DE, Ratliff and another DL at DT. And usually Burnett and either Zach or Brady at LB.
The set that I’d love to see is a 1-5-5 or 1-4-6 with Spencer replacing the DL other than Ratliff. That would put our 4 best pass rushers in the game. Let them dance around and find favorable matchups.
by Ridgelake on Nov 17, 2008 4:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I can't figure out why they don't roll Romo out more this year
He throws so good on the run. I almost fell out of my chair when they did it last night. Don’t remember seeing it all year this year.
by mhuff13 on Nov 17, 2008 1:26 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
i've been callin for that roll out all season......and hopefully Garrett has finally learned to utilize it more often...
it’s what works….That was Garrett’s best called game of the year…….keep it up..
A true diehard Cowboys fan since 1975.
"If you don’t take him off the field as a coach, he will just about die out there," Jerry Jones said. "That impacted my decision. It’s a Michael Irvin-type work ethic. That’s what we are talking about with Felix Jones."
- Owner/G.M of the Dallas Cowboys , Jerry Jones
by BoyzRback on Nov 17, 2008 11:45 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I Hope They Now Realize The Mental Toughness Needed To Win
Last night was the first game this season where I felt that the entire team played with a lot of heart (except maybe the first game of the season). There was no quit and you saw people playing with emotion and feeding off of each others emotion. I hope they can continue that. I hope that they now realize the preparation and enthusiasm required to win. If so, they will continue to get better and work better as a team, not to mention they will still get healthier with Tony’s hand still healing and the return of Felix. The next step is to bury a team that they should handle easily and not let them hang around for the entire game.
BTW, I’m loving the site. I’ve always enjoyed Raf’s articles but I’m really enjoying getting multiple articles instead of just reading one reporters perspective (No matter how much
by staubachfan on Nov 17, 2008 1:31 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I agree 100%
It was there in the Tampa Bay game too. That is what was missing.
You can't teach an old dogma new tricks.
-Dorothy Parker
by CounterEMF on Nov 17, 2008 6:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Mental Toughness: What about the Philly game?
Or does Romo get the only credit for heart in that game. To me, this team plays with heart most of the time. The thing is, it’s the NFL and everyone is good, so when you don’t have all your cylinders pumping, you get beat. The Cowboys were lucky to win a game without Romo, and the Cardinals are looking pretty good with Warner at the helm. There’s still a lot of season left.
by osa1011 on Nov 18, 2008 12:08 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Huge win!!!!!
If there is a such thing as a must win in week 11 this was it……….They played and coached like it was an elimation game…….Now if they can continue to play at this level we have a chance to get in the playoffs playing our best football of the yr. Tony looked good, a noticable difference on the O line with the addition of Kosier. The defense forced turnovers and kept Washington to 10 points. Great play calling by both O and D coaches coming up with the big play when needed. The O didnt panick when it was down and didnt force anything and the D kept the game close. Physical, Physical Physical game. When Washington punched us in the mouth in the early part of the game we punched back then broke them down by the end of the game. I hope they go into this weeks practice and practice like this weeks a must win game………because it is………
by jvw on Nov 17, 2008 1:41 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Last Night....
Agree with Staubachfan 100%. Finally the club looks like they really have a sense of urgency which is refreshing. It’s obvious with Tony and Newman back we have a greater chance to win.
Still disturbed at the play of Adams and to many penalties as this will kill you in close games.
What can you say about Barber and his night plus the eleven carries at the end. The guy is a hoss. We need Felix back to carry the load so lets hope the return is this week.
It was a great night to be a Dallas fan.
by le24 on Nov 17, 2008 1:42 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
What did Rock Cartwright do?
Is that about the Star thing?
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 17, 2008 1:45 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
He messed up downing the punt at the one.
by Brandon Worley on Nov 17, 2008 1:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That wasn't his fault.
The other guy kicked it into him. He stopped the balls momentum and rolled it forward to where one of his teammates could down it, but the other guy kicked it into his back. I thought this was about him and Tank Johnson from last game.
Oh, didn’t he make a mistake on one of the kickoffs? Obviously he had a great return, but I thought he did something on one of the later ones that gave them bad field position.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 17, 2008 2:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeh the ball bounced off his shoulder and out of bounds......
But my point was that he had no need to go flying in after that football on the ground like that. It was stopped, just sitting there and he flies in, grabs it, throws it back off a guys foot…..it was just unneeded.
by Brandon Worley on Nov 17, 2008 2:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That's How I Saw It
Why did he have to dive after it, like it was right on the edge of the goal line? At worst, he could have stayed on his feet, and if the ball started to roll, tap it backwards a yard. Much better than the diving swan routine.
Anyway, that blunder gave us the ball at the 20 instead of the one, and we proceeded to march right down and score the winning touchdown.
by kindablue on Nov 17, 2008 4:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
CDR aka Toast
Last night’s game was a big plus.
I hope we don’t ease up for the next week’s game against the 9ers. That would be a disaster.
by CDR on Nov 17, 2008 1:59 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Rock Cartwright
That punt play had me yelling at Al Michaels. I think a professional announcer should know the rules. He kept saying that the play would be reversed and that he clearly had it down. He didn’t understand the call. What kills me is my Brother-in-law then calls me to say that bad officiating gave dallas a break. I had to explain the rule to him.
BTW, how do you reply to a comment so that it becomes part of that comments thread?
by staubachfan on Nov 17, 2008 2:04 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
That was making me insane, too.
I think Michaels forgot that the ball is not just down where the punting team touches it.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 17, 2008 2:53 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
one game at a time
Last night was the first step
Lifetime Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
by Seanrude on Nov 17, 2008 2:04 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
DOOHHHH
I just saw the reply button after the comments.
by staubachfan on Nov 17, 2008 2:04 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
What Cartwright did
I’m assuming the writer was thanking Cartwright for letting that kickoff bounce off his chest and out of bound at around the 12 yard line. Our coverage team absolutely SUCKS!!
I was a little worried when they went for that 4th and 2 late in the game. I preferred they kick the FG and go up by 7, and let the ’Skins march the field with a minute left and no timeouts. The fact our kickoff coverage team sucks so bad may have been a factor in the decision making. They might have assumed the ’Skins would return it to at least the 50 yard line, making it much easier to go the rest of the way in a minute.
I’m just saying…
by JoeWho on Nov 17, 2008 2:06 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Re: kick coverage
I initially thought the same thing – that Wade went for it on 4th & 2 because he was worried that if we made it, Cartwright would run the ensuing kickoff back to tie the game. But then I realized that Wade was probably more worried about the wind – Suisham had come up way short on a 46-yarder in the 3rd at that same end, and from what I’ve read this morning the wind was a much bigger factor last night than I realized – and didn’t want to give the Skins better field position.
by DannyWhite on Nov 17, 2008 2:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Also the possibility of a blocked FG
T-New, shutting down WR's for Dallas since 2003
by APerfectStar on Nov 17, 2008 2:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The Skins needed a TD even if they stopped the Cowboys.
I think if the lead had been 3, we kick the field goal, but Wade was banking on keeping them out of the end zone with no time outs left.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 17, 2008 2:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Not that it matters...
…but I’m surprised Newman didn’t represent the defense on the SNF “horse-trailer” – what an exceptional night he had.
by eliason on Nov 17, 2008 2:06 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
A real FAN sees T-New play
Most of the others only see the stats
MBIII had a great game and was MONEY in the 4th quarter
I would have put both in the “horse-trailer”
by Nink on Nov 17, 2008 2:54 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Great
You know this is the 1st day in a very long time that i could go to work in the MD area without hearing a bunch of BS from the damn Deadskin fan about how great their team is and how bad my team the Boys are!!!! To HELL with the DeadSkins.
Now we really need to put it on the 9ers this week and Seapigs on Thanksgiving.
Going into a 10day layoff for a big game in Pittsburgh
by Nink on Nov 17, 2008 2:09 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
same here…they are mighty silent out here
by MdFan24 on Nov 17, 2008 2:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
And they suck at holding their ends of the bet, too!
They are pissing and moaning about our bet. they are SUPPOSED to wear a jersey and hat all day, but i’ve caught them not wearing their hats and covering up the jersey…i sang the friggin Deadskis song last month! (Granted, I injected a few words, like “cowboys #1!” HAHAHAHHAHA
by Cal in DC on Nov 17, 2008 2:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree
11. Dallas (6-4). Tony Romo’s presence, I’m convinced, helped the Dallas defense in Washington last night, too. The D seemed more inspired, playing like it knew it had a real chance. And let’s not forget Terrence Newman’s return from a groin injury. I see the Cowboys beating the Niners and Seahawks, and being 8-4 entering a hellish December
.
LINK
"If you see me up in the mountains with a lion, I ain't lyin
don't help me, help the mountain lion"
by Wmillion on Nov 17, 2008 2:21 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Steelers Game
Anyone from this site going?
I live about 3-1/2hrs away and will travel to Pittsburgh to see the game before driving 1-1/2hrs to Washington. Does that tell anyone how BAD i hate the Skins
by Nink on Nov 17, 2008 2:47 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
My son-in-law is an insufferable Steeler's fan. We have to win that game if for no other reason
Than to muzzle him!
Wharter
by Wharter on Nov 17, 2008 5:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Everyone I grew up with are Steeler fans
Unfortunately I grew up in Steeler country. Makes me want to puke…
by mhuff13 on Nov 17, 2008 8:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I wish I was going
I grew up near Pittsburgh, and have been to a dozen or so games at 3 Rivers. Never been to Heinz Field.
by mhuff13 on Nov 17, 2008 6:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Speaking of "Heinz"...
Wouldn’t Hines Ward play a great role on the Cowboys?
Wharter
by Wharter on Nov 17, 2008 6:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
much better than 3 Rivers
but not as good as Texas Stadium and our new stadium will put it to shame.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 17, 2008 8:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
3 Rivers was a dump
Never really liked it at all. Been there dozens of times for Pirates games too.
I heard Heinz is pretty nice though. I know it has a great view of downtown. I moved away the year before Heinz and PNC opened.
Hmm, I wonder if I got any friends that still have season tickets. I might have to find a way to get to the game. If I do Terry I’ll let you know.
by mhuff13 on Nov 17, 2008 8:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I got my tickets in May
section 108, 30 yd line behind Cowboys bench. If you want to get together to tailgate before the game, shoot me an e-mail.
If the weather is too cold, there is a good sports bar by Heinz Field called Calico Jacks.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 17, 2008 8:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Just to reiterate how great our D played last night...
Looking at the box score, we gave up a total of 228 yards, 92 rushing. But if you take away the 22 yard scramble from Campbell, the rush D was even better: only 70 yards rushing allowed on 17 carries. And even that is a tad misleading, as Portis picked up 20 yards on one carry in the 3rd. Take away that, and it leaves you with 3 yards a carry the rest of the time, which will certainly get it done.
by DannyWhite on Nov 17, 2008 2:24 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Just like a few years back...
Barber brought it on in the 4th quarter to remove any doubts as to who would win the game.
Let’s keep this mojo going, shall we?
by Pete222 on Nov 17, 2008 2:31 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Wait Until Felix (the Cat) Returns
He scores on a few of those edge plays where MBIII get 7-9yds
by Nink on Nov 17, 2008 2:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Felix should be the starter.
I think you should mix Barber in to keep them honest, but they should be getting about the same amount of carries. Felix should take the role that Julius had last year, which would keep Barber fresh to destroy people in the second half.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 17, 2008 3:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It's tough...
to justify only using him in certain situations when, coming into this year, he was labeled “the starter”…
But overall, I agree with you. I think the JJ/MB3 formula worked extremely well, and it could be even better since Felix is a better back.
by Pete222 on Nov 17, 2008 3:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I miss Felix's speed..
I am sure lineman do too..
"If you see me up in the mountains with a lion, I ain't lyin
don't help me, help the mountain lion"
by Wmillion on Nov 17, 2008 3:38 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I disagree
i think Marion should be the starter and mix in a little Felix..
Barber with the Romo back there is a 20 carry 100 yds back.. Felix get is done with less because MB3 softens up the D.. I wouldn’t mind seeing a 18-12 split though..
"If you see me up in the mountains with a lion, I ain't lyin
don't help me, help the mountain lion"
by Wmillion on Nov 17, 2008 3:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree (with you)
I think it is funny how the next back is always desired, grass is always greener you know. The fact is, Marion Barber is a GREAT running back, and along with his ability to carry the ball (run or catch) he also excels at protecting the QB, which cannot be overrated. That is one good reason why he is and deserves to be the starter. The 1-2 punch is great, the change of pace that sets defenses off balance not knowing which style of runner they’ll have to take on and messing up their angles, and for Barber to get 18-20 carries and Felix to get 10-12 carries is about right for now, especially for some of those edge runs that Felix could have taken to the house yesterday. Hope he’s back soon!
by scottmaui on Nov 17, 2008 4:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I wasn't saying that Jones is better.
I think Barber is hands down the better all around back and is one of the top 5 backs in the league. I just think that like last year, he is better as a 3rd down/short yardage/2nd half back. If he is the main back in the 2nd half plus the 3rd down and short yardage back, he’s looking at 15-20 touches a game, which is ideal for him. If we had gotten the lead earlier in this game, he would have been gassed by the 3rd quarter. 25-30 touches per game is too much for someone with his running style, especially since he is by no means a speed back. By using Jones as the “starter,” or 1st and 2nd down back, especially in the first half, and change of pace in the second half, you keep Barber fresh not just for that game, but for the season and the playoffs. Barber would still be the #1 back, just not the “starter” per se, just like when Julius was on the team.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 17, 2008 6:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i see what you mean
and i agree that he needs to share some carries to keep going down the stretch not just this season but for his career. I just think at this point it’s not so simple as making him the third down/short yardage back. Part of what makes Felix effective is coming in as the change of pace back after the defense has adjusted to Barber. I think that’s part of the reason he’s the “starter”.
Also not to be ignored is his emotional effect on the team. He is the spark plug of this team. Now Felix taking one to the house does have a pretty dynamic effect, too! But Barber can fire up the team with a 6 yard run when he lays a defender out at the end of it and then bounces up like and jumps around like Tigger.
by scottmaui on Nov 17, 2008 9:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
All I was saying was that...
Felix was better than Julius, and that’s why going back to the ‘old’ way would still work, and could be even better…
But Barber’s just too good now to leave on the bench for 3rd downs, goal line drives and the 4th quarter.
by Pete222 on Nov 17, 2008 6:47 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i see what you mean, too
i shouldn’t have inferred that either of you were saying Barber isn’t a great back
by scottmaui on Nov 17, 2008 9:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
julius is not a good NFL running back
He would be good for a spot start, but nothing more..
"If you see me up in the mountains with a lion, I ain't lyin
don't help me, help the mountain lion"
by Wmillion on Nov 18, 2008 4:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Julius = Scapegoat
MB3 is a beast, but our Oline doesn’t really manhandle anyone in the 1st quarter. it didn’t last year either.
we kept the right guy, don’t get me wrong, but JJones is a good back. he just got gun-shy after getting his clock cleaned when an Olineman ole’d one block too many.
I commented. You're welcome.
another transplant from The Blue & Silver Report
by bulldog jeeper on Nov 19, 2008 5:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That's what it should have/and should be in the future...MBIII 18-22 carries Felix 10-14 carries
One thing that still irks me is the lack of utilization by Garrett of quality reserves…Choice should have gotten a few more carries over the past month….No matter what, we should have a minimum of 35 carries per game as a team……especially with inclimate weather coming soon…
A true diehard Cowboys fan since 1975.
"If you don’t take him off the field as a coach, he will just about die out there," Jerry Jones said. "That impacted my decision. It’s a Michael Irvin-type work ethic. That’s what we are talking about with Felix Jones."
- Owner/G.M of the Dallas Cowboys , Jerry Jones
by BoyzRback on Nov 18, 2008 12:03 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Lets not get carried away with Felix.
I’d like to see about a 65/35 split though.
About 10-11 carries plus all the kick returns.
Thats plenty of touches for him.
by Carl Shelton (GloryDayz88) on Nov 17, 2008 6:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I would love that...
10 carries and 3-4 rec.
"If you see me up in the mountains with a lion, I ain't lyin
don't help me, help the mountain lion"
by Wmillion on Nov 18, 2008 4:45 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Man I absolutely love hearing this kind of stuff
From the DMN
A few weeks ago, offensive coordinator Jason Garrett and line coach Hudson Houck instititued a post-practice running session for the O-linemen for every penalty, bad snap exchange and some mental errors.
The linemen said they are getting the message. Flozell Adams and Marc Colombo had a false start and Adams had a hands to the face penalty called back on Sunday.
“I don’t know how it pays off but I do know I don’t like to run,” right guard Leonard Davis said. “I don’t like it but you’ve got to do what you’ve got to do. Sometimes it’s just like in a game when you commit a penalty and you pay with yardage. It’s all part of it.”
I recall stupid stuff happening in games back in high school and the coaches got so fed up that they made a rule that we’d do wind sprints every time something dumb and avoidable occurred that hurt the team. It seems unnecessary but it sure helped to eliminate a lot of the stupid penalties. It’s a great way to help hold the players accountable. Man those sucked..
by sublimezg on Nov 17, 2008 2:46 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I give Flo a break because of his hearing impairment
pretty much expect one false start per game, especially road games, but if he manages to keep it to only one that’s not too bad. the announcers last night were talking about how bad he is about getting penalties but unless I missed it they didn’t acknowledge that he’s playing with this handicap. Considering that he is legally deaf in his right ear (on the side of the QB) he does a pretty damn good job compensating.
by scottmaui on Nov 17, 2008 2:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He needs the Whisper 2000.
I can’t believe they can’t come up with something to help him out with that, with all of the modern technology out there. I think the hearing is a part of it, but also the fact that he goes against so many speed rushers and is a big dude and wants to hurry up and get into position.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 17, 2008 3:09 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Hearing aids are fragile, delicate things, right now at least
They could be making more robust ones, but they are focused on building the latest “built Ford tough” trucks instead. The companies don’t see much money in making them. They will when the baby boomers hit the senior citizen stage, though.
Another problem is that in an enclosed space (like a helmet), a hearing aid will produce feedback, rendering it useless. I’m sure they could figure a way past it, if they threw enough money at it.
“Uncle Moneybags” Jerry could possibly get the ball rolling on this if he knew.
Speaking as a hearing impaired person myself.
by mdlusk on Nov 17, 2008 3:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
ummm.....how bout trying to keep your eye on the snap of the ball on every play...
none of the lineman can hear the snap during stretches of road games….Flo does the same crap at home….It’s a mental thing for the most part…….and it drives me nuts…..
A true diehard Cowboys fan since 1975.
"If you don’t take him off the field as a coach, he will just about die out there," Jerry Jones said. "That impacted my decision. It’s a Michael Irvin-type work ethic. That’s what we are talking about with Felix Jones."
- Owner/G.M of the Dallas Cowboys , Jerry Jones
by BoyzRback on Nov 18, 2008 12:11 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Ever have to do up-downs?
I played with Terry Kirby and Chris Slade in high school (well, I was on the team, anyway), so our team didn’t make a lot of mistakes. The coaches would make us do up-downs equal to every penalty yard, plus a set number for turnovers, missed tackles, dropped passes, etc. The linemen HATED it, but the receivers and everyone else loved Monday practice. That’s definitely the way to get linemen to quit making mistakes, because pretty soon, those guys were policing everyone, getting in their faces for dropped passes, or whatever.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 17, 2008 3:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
yup
had to do those too. We even had a drill where we had to run 5 yards and dive/slide, then get back up run another 5 and slide. We’d do that up and down the field until we were all ready to puke. It was exhausting.
by sublimezg on Nov 17, 2008 3:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Dragon Drills
We called that drill a dragon drill. We had to run a 100 yard sprint from the goal line and do an up down every 5 yards. Worst drill in history. Especially after a 2 hour practice in full pads in 100 degree Texas heat. Our coach called it feeding the dragon, especially since most of us puked. It REALLY cut down on mistakes.
by apjfive on Nov 18, 2008 12:10 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i didn't realize
you were from virginia…BPS….
You'll never get in a traffic jam,while going the extra mile. -Roger staubach
by TrueBlue24 on Nov 17, 2008 6:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
What city in VA?
"I got a fever. And the only prescription is more cowbell." -- Bruce Dickinson
www.brainfriednetwork.com [NEWS/SPORTS/FOOTBALL]
by silverblue5 on Nov 18, 2008 10:18 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Going for it on 4th
My thoughts on Wade’s decision about going for it on 4th down-
I don’t think he was particularly concerned about the Skins return team having a long gainer if the Cowboys kicked a FG, the Skins were going to be really crunched for time, no matter what.
I think Wade just had confidence in the way the O line and Barber were performing, knew that it would take a Skins TD and the D was playing well and he felt that getting that 1st down would be a real confidence injection for the whole team.
Mission Accomplished!
"It is an odd thing, but everyone who disappears is said to be seen at San Francisco" Oscar Wilde
by Jim Vance on Nov 17, 2008 3:02 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Give Wade some credit
A few thoughts…
1) Our defense has looked much, much better since Wade took over the playcalling. Sure, the Giants ran it down our throats, but they did that to the Ravens as well! Our pass defense was getting dinked and dunked to death, and frequently had zone assingnment mistakes. We’ve been blitzing smarter and mixing up coverages better and have held three pretty good QB’s who normally give us trouble (Eli, Garcia, Campbell) to so-so games.
2) People are talking about our lines performance, but it’s more that Romo’s presence makes teams back off the rush, and his quick release hides their shortcomings. Washington is not a great pass rush defense, but Romo covers up a lot of OLine vulnerabilities in the same way that Johnson exacerbates them.
3) If Newman remains healthy and Wade continues to call the game, I think our pass defense is largely “fixed.” If our offense gets healthy and in rythym over the next two games, we go into December as healthy and strong as we’ve been since the Green Bay win last year.
by TimSchultz36 on Nov 17, 2008 3:10 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
+1
It was about time Wade took control of the defense. I think he let Stewie relay the plays to Bradie, but that was it. He probably only did that so Stewie looked like he was doing something and not embarrass him in public.
Kind of like when Switzer wore headsets that weren’t connected to anything.
T-New, shutting down WR's for Dallas since 2003
by APerfectStar on Nov 17, 2008 3:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
BJ
is basically Drew Bledsoe without the arm. I’m hoping we can pick up somebody (Leftwich, Derek Anderson? probably pipe dreams, though) whose arm actually has a pulse, and still at least some mobility. I think Leftwich has been called immobile, too, though. Oh, well, there’s always the late rounds of the draft or UDAs, even Bollinger. How much do we miss Matt Moore?
by mdlusk on Nov 17, 2008 3:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
There are at least a dozen Matt Moore wanna be's available in next years draft.....
A true diehard Cowboys fan since 1975.
"If you don’t take him off the field as a coach, he will just about die out there," Jerry Jones said. "That impacted my decision. It’s a Michael Irvin-type work ethic. That’s what we are talking about with Felix Jones."
- Owner/G.M of the Dallas Cowboys , Jerry Jones
by BoyzRback on Nov 18, 2008 12:15 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
We'll take those NJ a$$holes! Mark my words.
Wharter
by Wharter on Nov 17, 2008 5:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
slants
I think a lot of folks were calling for JG to run some slants or at least some shorter drop pass plays – well apparently he was listening with some up/down results. we ran than smoke route to TO also which netted nothing. however, it was good that the playcalling was more diversified in terms of these shorter dropbacks. I think that helped with running delays and delay counter plays which have been some of our most effective run plays this year.
by Scoobay on Nov 17, 2008 3:35 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
keep the D on it's heels..
I love to I love to see the creativity
"If you see me up in the mountains with a lion, I ain't lyin
don't help me, help the mountain lion"
by Wmillion on Nov 17, 2008 3:38 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
game plan
by going with short, quick passes early on, they really helped set up the first TD drive near the end of the half, 80 yards in 7 plays, including plays of 13 yards, 28 yards and 25 yards to RW11, Witten and TO respectively. That drive was a thing of beauty and those routes were opened up because of the types of passes they were throwing earlier.
by scottmaui on Nov 17, 2008 4:54 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The slant plays were there, and open.......Romo was just misfiring......give it time..
A true diehard Cowboys fan since 1975.
"If you don’t take him off the field as a coach, he will just about die out there," Jerry Jones said. "That impacted my decision. It’s a Michael Irvin-type work ethic. That’s what we are talking about with Felix Jones."
- Owner/G.M of the Dallas Cowboys , Jerry Jones
by BoyzRback on Nov 18, 2008 12:17 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Coincidence
I wonder if the defense and offense A games coincide with BTB and BSR (the two greatest DALLAS COWBOYS blog ever) becoming one great partnership.
by StarsAlign on Nov 17, 2008 5:19 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
now maybe we need to merge in another blog
so the ST can bring their A game as well!
by scottmaui on Nov 17, 2008 9:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
lol...scott
A true diehard Cowboys fan since 1975.
"If you don’t take him off the field as a coach, he will just about die out there," Jerry Jones said. "That impacted my decision. It’s a Michael Irvin-type work ethic. That’s what we are talking about with Felix Jones."
- Owner/G.M of the Dallas Cowboys , Jerry Jones
by BoyzRback on Nov 18, 2008 12:18 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Romo had some timing issues with his passes early in the game, but in the 3rd and 4th
Quarters he was “spot on”!
Where’s Terry? I thought he’d he’d be basking in the “Romo Spotlight”!
Wharter
by Wharter on Nov 17, 2008 5:39 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
haven't you figured it out Wharter
“Terry”…..IS Tony Romo!!!!!
You'll never get in a traffic jam,while going the extra mile. -Roger staubach
by TrueBlue24 on Nov 17, 2008 6:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
TrueBlue! You're a real visionary!
Wharter
by Wharter on Nov 17, 2008 6:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
wow, he can play QB and live blog it at the same time
dude is a freakin master!
by scottmaui on Nov 17, 2008 9:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Washington Times Story
By the way, I (Allan Johnson) was interviewed by a Washington Times reporter while tailgating yesterday. Good to see all the boys fans. I was extremely intoxicated by the end of the game and led my section in chants as the skins fans walked out.
WHAT DOES DC STAND FOR?
DALLAS COWBOYS!
I also had some skins fan threaten to beat me up because I was yelling “TICK TOCK TICK TOCK TICK TOCK” during Marion Barber’s time consuming masterpiece of a final drive.
by apjfive on Nov 18, 2008 12:12 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
good stuff man......wish i was there..
A true diehard Cowboys fan since 1975.
"If you don’t take him off the field as a coach, he will just about die out there," Jerry Jones said. "That impacted my decision. It’s a Michael Irvin-type work ethic. That’s what we are talking about with Felix Jones."
- Owner/G.M of the Dallas Cowboys , Jerry Jones
by BoyzRback on Nov 18, 2008 12:20 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
HAHAHAHA
that must have been torture to see the boys line and the barbarian choke the life out of their defense.
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
by cowboy78 on Nov 18, 2008 12:23 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Ive never seen fans start to walk out of a game with 5 minutes left and their team down by four. I really question the dedication of their fan base as a whole. First, the last two games have had huge contingencies of opposing fans… then the ones who do attend are more worried about beating traffic than seeing the game end. I guess they already figured out what we know:
There is no stopping Marion the Barbarian when he is protecting a lead in the 4th quarter. Cannot be done.
by apjfive on Nov 18, 2008 12:27 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
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