Tashard Choice: Integral to the Three-Headed Monster
by Aaron Novinger on Oct 20, 2009 8:19 PM CDT
112 comments
The Dallas rushing attack currently ranks third in the league averaging 161 yards per game. Ahead of them are Miami (177 YPG) and the New York Jets (163 YPG). Like the Cowboys, both of those teams utilize a rotation at the running back position - the Dolphins with Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams, the Jets with Thomas Jones and Leon Washington. As we all know, the Cowboys employ an attack that features three quality backs. And all three will be looking to contribute this Sunday against Atlanta.
Make the jump for the rest.
We know that Marion Barber can punish defenders and close out a game. We know that Felix Jones is a game-breaking playmaker every time he touches the ball. We know that Tashard Choice can be counted on to do whatever is asked of him to help the team win.
Often in as the third-down back, it is obvious that the coaching staff wants Choice on the field more and trusts his pass-blocking and receiving skills. In past years, Barber has manned that role. Evident by his 11.5 YPC average against Kansas City, which included a 36-yard score, Choice proved that he can also produce big plays like Jones.
Choice is versatile; Choice is integral. With Barber and Jones returning from injuries, the question remains: how will the Cowboys keep Choice involved?
Today, Jerry Jones commented on the Cowboys' running back situation. While Barber will get the start against the Falcons, Jones expects Tashard Choice to get more playing time.
"I can tell you Barber is going to be in better shape than he was last week or two weeks ago," Jones said. "But Tashard is certainly earned and going to get a big part of the load."
What about Felix?
Jones participated in practice Monday and moved around pretty good. His status for Sunday's game against Atlanta hasn't been determined, though he expects to play.
"We were pleased with how Felix moved around [Monday]," Jerry Jones said. "But we don't know how sore he's going to be [Tuesday]. I think what we've got, the strength of our team is the running back position. It's the most strength that we've had at any spot and we need to use it and we will use it."
Nick Eatman thinks that the Dallas running back situation does not need to change.
I'm not sure why people think Choice needs to start now. Does he need more carries? Maybe a few, but nothing over the top. Don't get me wrong, Choice has been great when called upon and the Cowboys may not have been 3-2 without him. He finished off the Panthers and Chiefs when no other back was available.
But when everyone is healthy, he's still the third-best back on the team. If you need tough yards, give it to Barber on third-and-two. If you need a big play or a spark, Felix is the better option. Not saying Choice can't provide either of the two, but when it comes to going 75 yards to the house, we all know that Felix is the best option for that.
Choice needs to play. He needs to have a role. Not just because he's earned it, but because the Cowboys can use it. But let's not get carried away and say Choice should be the starter because he's proven he can go 85 or 90 yards in a game.
Choice is adamant that this team is prepared for the rest of the season.
"I think we're mentally tough this year," Choice said. "I say that because of all the stuff we've been through — everything that happened with the (collapse of the indoor training facility), having to practice here and there, staying focused, everyone picking each other up, people taking personal blame for losses and not putting it on anyone else, everyone sticking together.
"And Coach has worked us really hard. Even during the bye week, that was the hardest practice we've had since training camp. It was really tough. But we pushed through it and got better."
He says that now is the time for the Cowboys to make their move.
"We had a chance to move up and let ourselves heal," Cowboys running back Tashard Choice said. "It’s now time to exert ourselves and get an identity for our team. It’s time to push. We’ve got to be ready to make a move and get ourselves on track in terms of a whole game in all three phases of the game."
Check out Tashard being interviewed here.
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finally someone who shows some creativity with this silly tradition!
Lifetime Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
by Seanrude on Oct 21, 2009 7:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What a dilemma Jason Garrett has in his hands with these 3 Backs.
While Choice maybe the inferior back to both Barber and Felix, he definitely produces when his number is called upon. I do hope he remains a Cowboy for his career.
~Texas Massacre '09~
by TheHeat on Oct 20, 2009 8:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Inferior?
I really think you need to re-think that statement. I don’t think Felix or MB3 could have done as well as Tashard in that NYG-Pit-Balt swing last year. Inferior is not the right word sir. More like “not the starter”, and that only being true because of politics. If this was any other team than the Cowboys, Choice would have had a start or two by now. But god forbid that Felix and MB3 be placed behind Tashard.
By the way, I predict before this is all over, you will be wishing for Tashard to be out there over anyone, whether you want to admit or not. There are alot of Cowboy fans in denial over this, as evidenced by their stating always and adamantly “Barber is our starter” or “Felix is our starter”, and they are saying it because they are seeing what Tashard is accomplishing.
Yes Felix looks flashier, And Barber can take the pounding (for how long?), but in the end, Tashard is the back we all will want out there, and we better hope and pray he doesn’t leave to go to another team. Case in point: It’s my belief that the better defenses can stop a speed back, or a power back, but they will have problems with an all-purpose back. They won’t know if he’s gonna take it to the outside, run between the tackles, or catch a screen and take it all the way. It’s a true dilemma for any defense. Jason Garrett, you now have the means to eat the clock and make these high powered offenses sit the bench. The truth is, you don’t want to play a game on offense of time posession and run, and I believe that the seduction of the pass will translate to another ill-advised pass (especially when it’s not necessary) leading to a turnover and giving yet another game away to an opponent we should easily beat. Prove me wrong and use the RB’s the way you must to beat the NYG’s, New Orleans, Pit, NE’s and Baltimores of the NFL. Your passing schemes alone will make it easy for them. You need to help Romo, not throw him to those dogs.
"Amongst the enemy's Lair, there will always be a DallasPalace!"
by DallasPalace on Oct 20, 2009 9:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just a reminder of what Choice did in that BRUTAL 3-game stretch
49 carries
268 yards
5.3 yards per carry
2 touchdowns
16 receptions
155 yards
He was on his way to averaging similar numvers against the Eagles as well until the score got out of control…
If Choice were named the starte tomorrow I would not blink twice.
by DavidH22 on Oct 20, 2009 10:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What I like about choice.
He always finds a way to get those five or six yards you don’t need. Like on first down. 2nd and four or five is a stat any team would like to have consistently.
"Help, it's hot and dark in here and someone is laughing." Taco Bell
by GunsUp on Oct 21, 2009 6:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
got news for you
Felix takes that screen pass to the house against the Steelers and we probably win as a result.
Thats why Choice is inferior to Felix at least, he doesn’t have the homerun speed.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Oct 21, 2009 7:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
all depends on how you look at it.....
you need to get to work every day to make a living….Volvo (Choice)
you have a Ferrari for the weekends and its always in the shop (Felix)
you need a semi-reliable (high mileage) pickup to move some furniture (Barber)
by McLovin9 on Oct 21, 2009 9:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was responding to the comment
that Felix nor MB3 wouldn’t have done as well as Choice against the Steelers or Ravens.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Oct 21, 2009 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Analogy schmanalogy
Choice can’t pick up the blitz. For that reason alone he’s an inferior football player than MBIII. Say what you want about how some cars are different, but I don’t know what car is the blitz pick up car.
He’s weaker than MBII and isn’t nearly as quick/fast as Jones.
Just because he’s on the field now when the other players are injured doesn’t make him better. It makes him available.
by Joey2zs on Oct 21, 2009 9:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You don't play
a running back just because his blitz pickup isn’t as good as anothers. What I saw of Tashard’s blocking, he looked very good. Of course, the more you are out there, the better you get, but, respectfully, Joey, this is just another shot at Tashard. There is a big difference between Barber (who excels at blitz pickup) and “can’t pick up the blitz”.
Just because he hasn’t shown that he is as good as Barber doesn’t mean he “can’t pick up the Blitz”.
"Amongst the enemy's Lair, there will always be a DallasPalace!"
by DallasPalace on Oct 21, 2009 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't understand
Parcells wouldn’t play RBs if they couldn’t pick up the blitz.
Tashard can’t pick up the blitz as well as MBIII, so he’s not as good as MBIII. That’s my only point. MBIII excels at all aspects of the game. He just doesn’t have breakaway speed.
It’s not a shot at Choice. The discussion here is who is a better RB. He’s the 3rd best on this squad.
Perhaps over time he will be as good as or better than as MBIII. He isn’t now.
by Joey2zs on Oct 21, 2009 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's just
your opinion Joey, nothing more. Your the one who is saying Tashard can’t pick up the blitz. Maybe you think that because he can’t do it as good as Barber (very few people can) that it means he "can’t " pick up the blitz. I remember hearing Derek Eagleton on his show about 1 week and a half ago talking about Tashard doing well in Blitz pickup, and It’s Felix who is need of improvement there more than Tashard.
I don’t agree on “MB3” is better than Tashard. Right now, if anything, Tashard is better- he isn’t injured. Nothing against MB3, but I feel like since he got paid, he hasn’t been the same runner for us. Your assumption and opinion that MB3 is “Better” than Tashard doesn’t fly with everyone, that’s for sure. Your way is you want the power back, My way is the all-purpose back. They are different. Not one better than the other, but rather a preference. Tashard does have more yards per carry than MB3, and he has the speed to go outside as well as run between the tackles. He is a deadly reciever out of the backfield. You’ll have to watch Tashard more now too, since they are gonna give him more touches. just stating reality joey, I love MB3, but I know that his bruiser style lends itself to injury and will not lead to a long career. Remember your Star Trek “The light that burns twice as bright, burns half as long”, and that describes MB3 better than anything.
"Amongst the enemy's Lair, there will always be a DallasPalace!"
by DallasPalace on Oct 21, 2009 9:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I pray
I pray you are right. I prayed when he got loose and beat the Giants and got in the open field, that he wouldn’t get run down from behind. I prayed he would play last year against the Redskins, in the first game. I prayed we wouldn’t be without him last year after the Arizona game, that he would come back from his injury. I prayed we wouldn’t go downhill after he went out, because he is a vital cog in this offense, and a threat.
But to me, Felix still has alot of development to do. I’ve watched Ahmad Bradshaw’s development, and hope Felix develops the same way. Right now, here is what I see and believe about Felix:
Still hasn’t proven that he is an everydown back, and hasn’t been in college and in the pro’s. To rely on him too much is not good. He has to have time to develop.
Doesn’t seem to have the power to rush between the tackles consistently
Recieving isn’t his strong suit (at least so far)
Is he injury prone?
Terry, this leads to a couple of observations of mine (please correct me if I’m wrong, I invite it)
If you give him too many carries and revolve the game around him, a good defense will negate his speed advantage and limit his success to the outside.
If he doesn’t develop a solid run between the tackles consistently, this may allow defenses to do the same to his success to the outside.
He needs to be used more as a reciever, and he needs to develop and become more reliable like this, and I’m not referring to screens.
Injuries? this is the biggest question in my opinion.
I’m sorry to bring up these points of question, but they are in my mind. Grant it, I want Felix to be that player just as much as the next fan. I’m excited over it.
But to say Choice is inferior? I’d be careful what you wish for. Remember what I wrote
in the post you were responding too- we better hope another team doesn’t take Tashard away. He is more valuable than either Felix or MB3 in my opinion (at least right now). Again, inferior is a poor choice of words. Let’s just say “diffedrent” and leave it at that.
"Amongst the enemy's Lair, there will always be a DallasPalace!"
by DallasPalace on Oct 21, 2009 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Great points
I don;t think enough fans appreciate one of Choice’s strong points – durability. If you are going to be a team that is built around pounding the rock, you have to have a back who can handle that. I love the talent of all three backs, but what stands out as one of the biggest differences is that Choice plays consistently well, as opposed to being occasionally brilliant. I hope all three contribute, but my take is that Choice plays better with more touches and he alone has proven to this point that he can carry the load. I am tempted to say that they should construct the running game around Tashard and fit MBIII and Fleix in around him…
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Oct 21, 2009 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Choice has shown a greater ability than Felix to be a receiver
out of the backfield…maybe he’s had more chances, but stats are stats. So who knows if Jones even catches that pass against Pittsburgh. It wasn’t a soft screen pass, as I recall, but a drilled throw about 10 yards downfield.
by DavidH22 on Oct 21, 2009 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
give me a break
it definitely was a soft screen pass, any blogger on this board could have caught that pass.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Oct 21, 2009 1:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not technically a screen
but only 3 yards downfield…whatever, Choice has 33 receptions for 277 yards so far, Felix has 3 for 30 yards.
by DavidH22 on Oct 21, 2009 2:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
maybe not a screen, but a really easy pass to catch
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Oct 21, 2009 2:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So Statistically
Felix is the better receiver.
by staubachfan on Oct 21, 2009 3:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Felix runs well between the tackles
This perception that he is only a speed outside guy is a myth IMO. He isn’t a Reggie Bush clone, who really should be converted to a WR IMO. Felix’s biggest weakness right now is blitz pick up and staying healthy.
He corrects those two things, he could be a special back.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Oct 21, 2009 1:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Correct
Felix Jones played in the first 6 games of 2008 and thus far the first 3 games in 2009
In the total 9 games, here are the “outside the tackles” and “inside the tackles” stats:
Inside the tackles:
17 carries
112 yards
6.6 average per carry
Outside the tackles:
33 carries
366 yards
11.1 average per carry
Plus Felix has had 3 receptions for 30 yards “outside the tackles”
He should not be labeled as ONLY an outside-the-tackles runner, even though that is where he is most productive.
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Oct 21, 2009 11:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd definitely wouldn't say Choice was inferior.
In fact, if the team had to choose between Barber and Choice, I would rather have Choice. He may not have the explosive, move-the-pile strength of Barber, but he makes plays. His style of play compared to Barber’s will also most likely end up making his career last longer than Barber’s . That being said, I would probably choose Felix over Choice if that were the decision, simply because of the big play capability.
"It takes a big man to cry, but it takes an even bigger man to laugh at that man."
by Waterloo Joe on Oct 21, 2009 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think you can say that.......
If we only had Felix instead of Choice we would be in big trouble because he can’t stay healthy. My question to you is who would we have played for the past couple of games if we didn’t have Choice? Felix and Barber were both hurt. What I don’t understand with a lot of you guys, is why do we have to say who is better? Why can’t we just say that we are very fortunate to have 3 quality RB’s that bring something different to the table. I do think we should utilize all three of them better if they all can stay healthy at the same time. Garrett needs to learn how to use all of his weapons and not so “enamored” with just one. Same goes for WR’s. We don’t use all of our strengths. We seem to focus on just one guy every week. Don’t know if that is Garrett or Romo, but they seem to focus on just one RB and one WR every game. How about spreading the ball around to all of our weapons? Now that’s a novel concept right?
by texstar on Oct 21, 2009 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not saying I would want to give up any of them
But if we had a situation where we had to release one of them versus the other, I would take Choice over Barber and would choose Felix over either of them because of his big play ability. I think we have a great, complementary set of backs, and wouldn’t want any of them to go. I was just rating them according to which one I think is more valuable. Not based on type of running style alone, but based on how hard it would be to replace their skill set and the number of different ways each back could be used. I think Felix would be the hardest to replace because of his big play ability. I think Barber is the more talented back when compared to Choice (at least up to this point), but his running style and the number of years he has played already would make me pick Choice over him if I had to choose. Also, Choice, in my opinion, is the best all-around back of the three. He’s more durable than both, he’s a little stronger than Felix and a little faster and can catch better than Barber. He also makes people miss, which usually makes for a long career in the NFL.
"It takes a big man to cry, but it takes an even bigger man to laugh at that man."
by Waterloo Joe on Oct 22, 2009 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree........
hopefully, we won’t be faced with a decision on who to keep for a while because I like all three. At this moment, I would have to say that Choice deserves more carries because he has proven that he can stay healthy up to this point. I just think that it’s funny how some, ( not you) seem to like every new toy that comes along. For instance, there were some that seemed to think that Bennett would be better than Witten and Felix is better than Barber and Choice. I think that we are very fortunate to have depth at both of these positiions and we need to capitalize on all their strengths.
by texstar on Oct 22, 2009 11:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Even though Dallas is "just" 3rd in rushing
behind the Jets and Dolphins, the Cowboys’ YPA is 5.9, a full yard more that those AFC East teams. Of course, it helps that Dallas has Romo and the Jets have a plummeting-to-earth rookie and the Dolphins either a noodle-armed QB or a 1st year starter in Henne, so opposing defenses can’t just key against either rush or pass.
I think there have been probably 4-5 runs of 10+ yards so far that have been wiped out by penalties.
by DavidH22 on Oct 20, 2009 8:55 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Plus, the Jets have played one more game than the Cowboys,
which included this past Sunday’s 300+ yard effort in a loss to the Bills.
I can see for miles and miles and miles and miles and miles...
http://twitter.com/BloggingTheBoys
by Aaron Novinger on Oct 20, 2009 8:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
its based on yards per game, not total yards
by mahuebel on Oct 20, 2009 10:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I understand that, but Miami and Dallas have one less game to add to their average.
I can see for miles and miles and miles and miles and miles...
http://twitter.com/BloggingTheBoys
by Aaron Novinger on Oct 20, 2009 11:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Please please please
don’t start one of these math threads. It almost made my head explode last time…
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Oct 21, 2009 11:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As much as i love choice
I agree with Nick Eatman. I’m praying to the football gods our running backs are just having a stroke of bad luck with these injuries.
Come to think of it, maybe i shouldn’t say stroke.
Michael Irvin to Keyshawn Johnson "I know where me and Rice belong on the top ten receivers of all time list, but who do you have in the bottom 8?"
by markdamack on Oct 20, 2009 8:59 PM CDT via mobile reply actions 0 recs
Having all three of those guys is a terrific problem to have. In todays NFL having three quality
RBs healthy at the same time is almost impossible. We should have that when the Atlanta game starts, but how long will it last. Barber is a big time banger, and can have a long run from time to time. Felix can have a long run anytime, but I think Choice can too. Choice is deceptively illiusive, and fast. He just makes minor changes in direction and speed to get by people. No big jerky moves, just a little shoulder dip, direction change, and off he goes. I hope all three can contribute big time all year.
Family, Friends, Cowboys, Beer & BBQ. Life is good!
by CowboyMan on Oct 20, 2009 9:00 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
How great is it to think...
…about these guys staying healthy for a long time. I mean, it’s impossble to imagine them staying healthy forever but these guys are young. If the all three spent their careers here…wow. Of course, i’m not that naive to think in these days of free agency it would happen…but damn it’d be nice.
Michael Irvin to Keyshawn Johnson "I know where me and Rice belong on the top ten receivers of all time list, but who do you have in the bottom 8?"
by markdamack on Oct 20, 2009 9:09 PM CDT via mobile reply actions 0 recs
There's no point
if the three were healthy all the time, then Choice is useless. Going 3 deep at RB is a luxury. I’d dump any one of them at any time for a top notch WR or DB.
by Joey2zs on Oct 21, 2009 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow
I’ve gotten totally dumped on for suggesting exactly the same thing. And of course the fact that both MB and Felix have been injured PROVES you are wrong.
by StillHateTheGiants on Oct 21, 2009 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't understand
Do your two sentence contradict themselves?
by Joey2zs on Oct 21, 2009 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe we should raid the Atlanta area more often.
Brooking and Choice=two best acquisitions in the last 2 years.
by Benthere on Oct 20, 2009 9:10 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Bebe Thomas and Morgan Burnett would be fine by me...
If I had a nickel for every Super Bowl the Eagles have won, I would have zero nickels.
by Cowboyfan729 on Oct 20, 2009 10:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We could of drafted Atls. WR Roddy White...
when we took Spears in the first round. We took Ware at 11 I and Spears at 20 White went 27 to Alt. But you know Jerry and taking WR early in the draft,it don’t happen.
by DIRE WOLF on Oct 21, 2009 10:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And Big Bill was in love with Spears...
he wanted to take him before Ware at 11 but was overruled Spears was still there at 20 so Bill got his way after all.
by DIRE WOLF on Oct 21, 2009 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I love that 5.9 average
And Romo is actually bringing the team down with his measly 10-32. The team averages 6.2 a carry without him. No more kneel-downs!
btw the team record is 4.7 in 1962….NFL record is, I believe, 5.8 (Cleveland 1963).
So far this season the run offense has gains of 56, 40, 36 and 35 yards. That’s a whole season worth of big runs in 5 games….
by DavidH22 on Oct 20, 2009 9:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Choice IS NO Julius Jones
Choice does an excellent job of always running for positive yardage.
He has great vision to find lanes, always gets small in them and has the wiggle and acceleration to make the second level defenders miss.
I LOVE Barber’s style, but Choice can be trusted to pick up 3-4 yards most of the time, just like Barber.
HE IS EVERYTHING JULIUS JONES WAS SUPPOSED TO BE! Thank god the ‘run into the pile for -3 yrds. Bum’ is gone!
by T. on Oct 20, 2009 9:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Julius Jones
averages 4yds per carry for his career.
by Joey2zs on Oct 21, 2009 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah, he just can't run between the tackles
kind of important for a good RB.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Oct 21, 2009 1:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Unfortunately it only takes a arm tackle to bring him down.
KICK ASS every day!!!
by squidlo97 on Oct 22, 2009 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Arm Tackle? All you have to do is wave at him from three yards away and he goes down
Lifetime Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
by Seanrude on Oct 22, 2009 2:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was trying to be kind but your right.
KICK ASS every day!!!
by squidlo97 on Oct 23, 2009 3:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Choice is the third best back
when they are all healthy. The beginning of this season, I was amazed to see what a healthy Marion Barber could do again, which we haven’t seen since the beginning of last season.
BUT MBIII has definitely proven to be injury prone already, and Felix is all about officially injury prone too. Choice so far has stayed healthy. A healthy Choice is better than a dinged up Barber (and Felix can’t even play hurt, it looks like). So for the love of God, GET HIM MORE CARRIES! It doesn’t matter whether you think he’s the third best back on the roster or not; it’s the only way that Barber might stay healthy for once.
by blee on Oct 20, 2009 10:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
All three backs have a role on helping this team win
and I am glad that the Cowboys seem to finally realize this.
If I had a nickel for every Super Bowl the Eagles have won, I would have zero nickels.
by Cowboyfan729 on Oct 20, 2009 10:39 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Realizing it and using it are two very different things.
"Help, it's hot and dark in here and someone is laughing." Taco Bell
by GunsUp on Oct 21, 2009 6:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm one of those guys
Who think choice is and should be the third back. I wouldn’t start him over barber or jones. I dont think you can call Jones or Barber injury prone yet but they are on their way. I’m also not ignorant enough to ignore the production that choice brings to this team. I love all three of these guys. Barber is the heart of this offense, Jones is the heart stopper of the opposing teams, and choice….well he’s our little emmitt smith, an all round great back. Let’s just bask in that for awhile and pray that Garrett gets off his pass first kick and turns this into a smash mouth offense like its built to be
Michael Irvin to Keyshawn Johnson "I know where me and Rice belong on the top ten receivers of all time list, but who do you have in the bottom 8?"
by markdamack on Oct 21, 2009 12:28 AM CDT via mobile reply actions 0 recs
I agree wholeheartedly
and your profile pic made me chuckle a little bit.
by Benthere on Oct 21, 2009 1:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Barber is injury prone
C’mon, he’s always banged up. That’s what happens when you run like MBIII…and aren’t all that big. I love the guy but let’s admit he’s injury prone.
by blee on Oct 21, 2009 2:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And will probably have a very short career
Not wishing it, just being realistic
by StillHateTheGiants on Oct 21, 2009 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Seems like Choice is also becoming the spokesman of the 3
He’s a great interview. He’s a smart kid, a great teammate, and a load for opposing defenses. I love all three of them equally. I just wish they could all stay healthy.
Last night I lay in bed looking up at the stars in the sky and I thought to myself, "where the heck is the ceiling?"
by White Wolf on Oct 21, 2009 6:06 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Choice will beat out MB3 at some point in the future
more than likely when MB3’s contract is up or he simply wears down, but make no mistake about this fact, Felix is the really special back among all three, no question about it.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Oct 21, 2009 7:16 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Felix is the best runner. I am not so sure he is the best running back yet.
If I had a nickel for every Super Bowl the Eagles have won, I would have zero nickels.
by Cowboyfan729 on Oct 21, 2009 8:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think you could kinda compare our three.....
to the Saints trio. Felix is similar to Reggie Bush ( I think Felix is better) Mike Bell is kinda like Barber and Pierre Thomas is similar to Choice. I’m not saying they are the same but there are some similarities there when you look at it.
by texstar on Oct 21, 2009 9:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's a good comparison
They just need to start use them situationally instead of just letting Barber get the majority of carries because Jerry overpaid for him. He only needs to be there to make a statement (with his physical running), goal line and short yardage carries, and to close out close games. Use Felix for your home run plays and Choice for everything else.
by selke99 on Oct 21, 2009 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Felix/Bush comparison is pretty thin
I see what you are saying, but Bush is barely a running back, he’s really more of a receiver and at best a true scat back who cannot carry it between the tackles, whereas Felix has the tools to be an every down back and run it between the tackles as well as go outside and catch passes, as long as he can stay healthy.
by scottmaui on Oct 21, 2009 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you hit the nail on the head.....
“as long as he can stay healthy”. That’s the biggest question mark concerning him. I don’t think he can handle being an every down back and running between the tackles because at this point his body doesn’t appear to be durable enough. He also is more dangerous on the outside and not running between the tackles. Why does it have to be just one guy? Why not enjoy all the different things that each can bring to the table very much like what Giants, Saints do? In other words, the three headed monster.
by texstar on Oct 21, 2009 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed
I feel the same way about Felix. His running alone makes him special. His durability makes you question whether he can be an every down back. I wonder what was the breakdown between McFadden and Felix in college. I assume McFadden got many more carries. And scottmaui’s right about Felix and Bush. Bush seems to be easily tripped up. Felix seems like a stronger runner.
by selke99 on Oct 21, 2009 7:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
difference between Felix and Bush
is that Felix can run between the tackles, while Bush can’t. Aikman said Sunday that he thought Bush should be converted to a WR because he runs routes well, is very fast and can’t run between the tackles as a back and I totally agree with him.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Oct 21, 2009 1:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dear Terry
That is why I am hoping Felix’s development comes along where he can become like an Adrian Peterson type back. I am hoping he gains a little weight, and gets stronger, and can take more of a pounding, and become a more all-purpose back. He hasn’t had to shoulder a big load like Tashard did throughout college, and hasn’t been the main back anywhere. I just believe if we give Felix Time, he will develop. It’s agreat luxury to have a back like Tashard. He has carried the load, and he is more NFL ready than most backs because of his experience pounding the ball in colllege. Aren’t we spoiled to have our third back be able to start and be a threat like Tashard is? You better believe THAT. It’s just like Dunkman said in an earlier post- people don’t put the proper perspective and under-value durability in a running back. I don’t. I think it is the biggest trait a running back can have. Tashard may not have Felix’s speed, but I would not underestimate his speed just because of that. You’ve seen with your own eye’s Tashard take it to the house and bail out the team when no one else was able to produce anything. Forget about the hype that surrounds certain players- when a player is consistent, hard working, and consistently produces big- those are the kind of traits in players you can’t have enough of and need on your team big time. And who is it coming out from the sideline after Tashard Scores a touchdown to thank him? Felix AND MB3, that’s who.
"Amongst the enemy's Lair, there will always be a DallasPalace!"
by DallasPalace on Oct 22, 2009 10:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Interesting Comment by Jerry Jones
JJ was asked bout TC’s comment “…it’s time to exert ourselves and get an identity for our team.” JJ said something like an identity is something that writers give a team after the season."
I thought that was interesting comment and has some truth to it. Teams just need to play hard and smart and let writers write the story.
by staubachfan on Oct 21, 2009 10:37 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
The whole "find your identity" thing is way over-rated.
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Oct 21, 2009 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
I think commentators need to find an identity to talk about for a team a lot more than the team needs to find one for itself.
part of what the Cowboys have is versatility, and they can adapt their attack depending on what the D is giving them. Some games they may pound it, some games air it out. Some games may feature a lot of 12 and 22 packages (2TE), another game may feature more 11 package (3WR). The point is to move the ball and get it in the end zone however works, not to have an “identity” that everyone can point to and say this team is such and such.
by scottmaui on Oct 21, 2009 11:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I love this kid
We are so fortunate to have him, both with the versatile skills he brings to the RB position giving us arguable the best backfield in the league and able to fill in for both Barber and Felix, and with the attitude and energy he brings to be one of the emotional spark plugs for the team even at his young age.
by scottmaui on Oct 21, 2009 11:33 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Decoding Garrett Week 5
btw if anyone hasn’t seen this, it is a great read with videos by DCFanatic…
Football 301: Decoding Garrett – Week 5 by Bob Sturm
He talks about how the Boys are dominating on the ground behind their 22 package (2 RB, 2 TE, 1 WR) where they clearly show they are going to run and still gain huge ypc, and he breaks down three big runs vs. KC that were all variations on the same play, including Choice’s TD run, where Witten and Bennett do a great job sealing off the lane and allowing Choice to scoot through and face (and beat) the S one-on-one.
by scottmaui on Oct 21, 2009 11:41 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Awesome
thanks.
But a bone to pick. You never recommended a place to eat in Hawaii so I ended up at a Zippy’s. WTF??!
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Oct 21, 2009 11:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Zippys!
Did I miss your request for a recommendation? Or am I just supposed to be recommending a place to eat just randomly for the heck of it? lol
locals love Zippy’s so you did get a taste of what some here would probably recommend. Until very recently there was no Zippy’s on Maui and when family or friends went to Oahu they would really go out of their way to bring back a tub of Zippy’s famous chile.
me not so much, not my favorite.
by scottmaui on Oct 21, 2009 11:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I definitely asked!
Yeah, that’s what everyone told me – Zippy’s is authentic. Right down to the “six ways to prepare spam”…
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Oct 22, 2009 7:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Great link for play anaylisis, thanks.
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Oct 21, 2009 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jesus. That was a fantastic article. Thanks Scottmaui.
by DavidH22 on Oct 21, 2009 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
he's got great stuff there every week
the best place for nuts and bolts Xs and Os breakdown and analysis with hardcore stats and film to back it up. Maybe have to make sure Aaron includes Sturm’s posts in his VRR because for me it’s a must read every week.
by scottmaui on Oct 22, 2009 12:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You're right.
I need to pop that in my bookmarks toolbar!
I can see for miles and miles and miles and miles and miles...
http://twitter.com/BloggingTheBoys
by Aaron Novinger on Oct 22, 2009 8:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So the DMN is reporting that Jerry turned down a "big trade" yesterday...
let the speculation begin as to what it was.
by DannyWhite on Oct 21, 2009 1:12 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Merriman?
Lifetime Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
by Seanrude on Oct 21, 2009 2:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
so happy Jerry didn't take the bait, good for him
especially if he was offered the extremely overrated Merriman.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Oct 21, 2009 2:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm hearing that someone offered up at 'least' a Number 1
for a player that isn’t a running back. Think Ware?
by Road Warrior on Oct 21, 2009 3:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So who on our team is worth at least a number 1
Ware
Newman
Jenkins
Spencer
Scandrick
Ratliff
Romo
Barber
F. Jones
T. Choice
R. Williams
Witten
by staubachfan on Oct 21, 2009 3:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I guess we'll never know
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Oct 21, 2009 4:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It would have been in an area of perceived depth, and it wouldn't have been one of the core players
because Jerry actually thought about it for a moment. It would also be likely an area of great need to the opposing team, but one that would not have crippled the Cowboys. A Ware, Ratliff, and Romo loss cripples this team. Jerry confirmed it wasn’t a running back. Could it have been a wide receiver? Austin? One of our young corners? Maybe one of our kickers? Premium pick doesn’t mean just first round, it could be a high second.
by CaliFanInTx on Oct 21, 2009 5:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
How about Free?
Young, promising, a hard-to-find position. And Jerry mentioned Free yesterday as well – wanting to get him on the field at some point to see what he has on game day.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Oct 22, 2009 7:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I find it hard to believe
any team would give up a 1st or 2nd draft pick for Free, he’s not THAT promising.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Oct 22, 2009 7:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think he might be
considering the position he plays. Even a decent LT is a treasured possession. And I think Free looks decent.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Oct 22, 2009 8:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I disagree dunk
I think you have to be more than decent to warrant a 1st or 2nd. At this point, Free looks to me like a career back up.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Oct 22, 2009 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not sure about career back up
his few appearances show more promise than that. Jerry said something along the lines of wanting to see more Free to be sure of wha tthey have. I think they are cautiously optimisitc with Free but want to be sure.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Oct 23, 2009 6:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm thinking Austin or Choice.
Someone that doesn’t start who has the potential to. Doubt any team would even ask for Ware.
by selke99 on Oct 21, 2009 7:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
he said it wasn't a RB
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Oct 21, 2009 11:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If true, can't blame the Chargers for trying
After Al Davis, Jones would be the next owner/“GM” I’d go to in order to unload some malcontent/underachiever/salary cap burden for high draft picks.
by DavidH22 on Oct 21, 2009 2:51 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
You forgot Snyder on that list
Shame, shame, shame…
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Oct 21, 2009 3:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What about Adelius Thomas?
the Patriots were sure active the last couple of days moving guys around and Thomas was inactive on Sunday which is kinda strange.
by texstar on Oct 21, 2009 3:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd lay 2 to 1 odds that Felix Jones get injured again this weekend......
By the 2nd half….
by hakrjak on Oct 21, 2009 3:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
ouch
don’t even say that. We need him.
by staubachfan on Oct 21, 2009 3:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I dont understand the need to rank these guys.
All bring a unique skill set to the table. I think each week one will be a better matchup because of the different types of Ds we face.
My beef is with the coaches. If someone has a bad wheel(MBIII) then Choice should have gotten the bulk of the carries. We seem to have a little too much respect for the vets at times.
Other than that I think the rotation we have gone with when all are healthy has been the right one. Lots of yards rushing but damage is spread equally amoung the 3 leaving(or should) more gas in the tank for the playoffs.
KICK ASS every day!!!
by squidlo97 on Oct 22, 2009 9:55 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
The Bengals wanted Bennett
The team that wanted Martellus Bennett was the Bengals (remember they lost Ben Utecht in preseason). The Cowboys said no.
by scottmaui on Oct 22, 2009 10:26 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Great Post Aaron
"Amongst the enemy's Lair, there will always be a DallasPalace!"
by DallasPalace on Oct 22, 2009 10:17 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
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