Holding Serve -- Steady Wins the Cowboys Another Week
by Rafael Vela on Nov 1, 2009 9:51 PM CST
323 comments
Some of the older hands here might recall the paradox of women's tennis in the '70s and '80s. It exploded in popularity, despite having little tactical variance of flair. Chris Evert's approach defined the game -- stay on the baseline, hit it down the middle and wait for the other player to make mistakes.
The Cowboys played some Chris Evert football today and it couldn't be sexier. It wasn't Dallas' sharpest game, despite the blowout score. The Seahawks moved the ball. They were fairly effective running the ball. Their defense did not allow the Cowboys' runners to find a rhythm. A greedy Tony Romo pass attempt gifted Seattle a late score.
Still, the Cowboys kept the ball in the middle. They held the point at home, on a week where few of their rivals could do the same. The Cardinals found their old inconsistency, falling at home to the Panthers. The Packers dropped a painful rematch to the Vikings. The Giants gave up another 40 down in Philly. The 49ers again found a way to play just well enough to lose.
As a result, the Cowboys find themselves tied for first in the East, and if the Saints can hold their serve against the Falcons in the Superdome tomorrow night, only two conference teams, those Saints and the Vikings, will boast better records than the Cowboys on Tuesday morning.
We can go through the stats, but a quicker way of assessing Dallas' spot on the NFC totem is figuring out which teams are improving right now and which are frantically bailing water.
In Dallas, all the arrows point up. The defense hasn't had a shut down game this season, but its rush and coverage continue to improve. When Terence Newman records the game's biggest hit and Bobby Carpenter joins Demarcus Ware as a sack leader, you know Wade's guys are headed in the right direction.
Jason Garrett's bunch is also driving steadily upwards. Another pick free game by Tony Romo. The protection was again steady against a blitz-happy opponent. All the backs look as good stoning blitzers as they do carrying the ball. Miles Austin continues to produce. Martellus Bennett is starting to see more balls. Doug Free got extensive work today at left tackle, and intrigued with his play.
The largest leap comes on special teams. David Buehler has perfected the directional kickoff. Returners either kneel down or take their chances against a coverage group that won't let them past the 20. In many cases the returners are lucky to reach the fifteen. The punt coverage units are just as strong. Twice, I saw Mat McBriar boom a high kick which put four men within five yards of the returner upon reception. The average Seahawks punt return today was 3.3 yards. Meanwhile, Patrick Crayton refuses to take off the Devin Hester costume he donned last week. He returned another punt for a score and just missed a third. He finished the game with a cool 29.0 yard average.
This matters because the Packers, Dallas' opponent two weeks from today, lost today because of lousy special teams. Percy Harvin had 175 yards of returns and gave Minnesota two very short fields, which they turned into 14 points. His 48 yard return one play after the Packers had scored 17 straight to pull within four at 24-20 killed Green Bay's momentum late in the third quarter. Bruce Read's '08 units probably cost Dallas a playoff spot when they handed the Cardinals 14 points in a mid-season loss. Joe DeCamillis' bunch hasn't won a game yet, but they look ready to swipe one, if their opponents let them. Lambeau Field looks like a prime target.
In the division, New York's run defense has collapsed, even though the Giants spend a small fortune signing Chris Canty and Rocky Bernard to beef up their line. The Eagles, who forgot how to run the ball in their loss to Oakland, averaged 8.3 yards a carry yesterday. Andy Reid called one of his few 50:50 pass to run games, in part because his fullback Leonard Weaver averaged over nine yards a pop.
Which gets us to the next opponent. Like the Cowboys, the Eagles have tightened things up since the Raiders embarrassed them. All three of their units dominated the Giants yesterday.
Don't expect any cautious, baseline play next week. No returns down the center. These are the two big-play teams, on offense, defense and special teams. Miles Austin? Desean Jackson? Jeremy Maclin? Felix Jones? These guys always go for aces.
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Grizz, Aaron, or Raf
It would be cool if you could overanalyze Doug Free’s few snaps. I think that it says something about him that they put him out there with Romo still in the game.
by quincyyyyy on Nov 1, 2009 9:54 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I'll get to it.
Maybe not tonight,but I’ll get there. Didn’t look bad on first impressions. I think he hit the wrong guy on a blitz off his side, but looked pretty good on run plays, but that’s just off the top of my head.
Yeah, Romo was in, but they were also 28 points up, and they always had a tight end on his side when they threw.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 1, 2009 9:56 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
yeah I think I know what blitz you are talking about
but it look like he went for the inside guy, which I think is what you are suppose to do, but I’m not sure.
by quincyyyyy on Nov 1, 2009 9:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I believe your right quincyyyy.....
I only played high school but was always tought to tke the inside guy first. Reason being, he has the shortest route to the QB. The problem was that Choice went out in a passing route without chipping the end.
by TARHEEL PAUL on Nov 2, 2009 11:46 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Brooking
Another solid game. Loved his blitz up the middle, past Unger.
The D is improving; I believe Jenkins and Scandrick are pickin it up. My Vikings buddy thought Jenkins was pretty good. Hopefully those 2 don’t get scared at the Linc next week.
by Turbo73 on Nov 1, 2009 10:04 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Good writeup as always Raf
1. Offense is really clicking. I was pretty hard on Romo a few games ago, but I just need to accept him as who he is. A QB who takes chances on plays that very few can make. But finally he’s starting to cut down on the mistakes.
2. Love how every WR/RB out there is just a numberless jersey to Romo. He’s just throwing to the open guy. And the guys don’t even care who gets it more, as long as they win. Good to see Ogletree get into the action. This is blind faith, but I think it’s only a matter of time before we see Roy Williams factor into the offense.
3. Just one criticism. No need, with this great stable or RBs, to throw 5-6 straight times. I think that particular drive ended in a missed FG. We should never see that type of playcalling unless they’re coming back from a large deficit. I just think sometimes Garrett/Romo fall in love with themselves. Wade needs to reign them in and tell them to throw in some runs, especially when the game was still in reach.
Our Boys are definitely on a roll and clicking on all cylinders. Should be a great game next Sunday in prime time!
by selke99 on Nov 1, 2009 10:11 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
too much passing with the lead
was my thought as well.
Romo is taking far fewer chances and looks much more settled. A bad gaffe inside the ten today, but we should have been running the ball anyway.
by I_miss_Switzer on Nov 1, 2009 11:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, but... The running game was going nowhere
I’ll be interested in the post-game analysis, but it was my impression that Seattle was intent on stopping the run first and taking more chances with man coverage.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 2, 2009 7:19 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree
If teams take away the run, you got to pass, it would be stupid not to with our weapons in the passing game.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 7:29 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
There's a delicate balance
between saying that the defense is taking away the run so we will just strictly throw the ball and throwing in a few runs to at least give the impression that you are attempting to run. It makes the playaction that much more effective instead of having Romo drop straight back all those times.
I think you just have to be careful in saying, well, we’re just going to be one dimensional since we’re taking what the defense gives us. Isn’t that what the defense wants? We’ve seen this thinking work against them. You can still throw it more, I just think any offense that can run AND pass as strong as ours is at its best when it’s unpredictable and mixing up the playcalling. Not trying to call a crisis since things are going well now!
by selke99 on Nov 2, 2009 10:54 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Dallas never gave up on the run versus Seattle
1st Q
5 runs
9 passes
2nd Q
9 runs
15 passes
3rd Q
4 runs
8 passes
4th Q
11 runs
6 passes
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 2, 2009 11:17 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You don't exactly make your point
Those are terrible ratios the 1st three quarters
by Realist Larry on Nov 2, 2009 5:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
ratios?
1st Q passing – 64% is high
2nd Q passing – 62.5% is high
3rd Q passing – 66% is high
4th Q passing – 35% is extremely low
For the game: 56.7% passing is slightly above average for the Cowboys this year, but still below average compared to last year.
selke99 suggested that Dallas should throw in a few runs to keep the defense honest. I think the stats provided kind of prove that that the Cowboys never completely gave up on the run. Actually in the 4th Quarter, they ran almost twice as much as they passed the ball.
But he explained that he was only referring to one specific drive in the game. So, everything is good.
A number of bloggers (not in this current conversation) continue to complain that the Cowboys pass too much and don’t run enough. My take is that this year the Cowboys are running more and passing less than last year, and not giving up on the run late in games.
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 2, 2009 9:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The game was over in the 4th, of course they were running it more!
You actually make the opposite point, and verify that they were throwing way too much, almost a 2-1 ratio of pass-to-run, in the 1st three quarters.
You seriously think passing twice as much as running, when the game is still on the line, is OK?
Actually, you made me realize it was worse than I thought.
by Realist Larry on Nov 3, 2009 12:35 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
OK, but
how is “too much”? They controlled the game, they won, they didn’t turn the ball over. So other than some rule of thumb of “being balanced”, why wouldn’t it be OK since it was effective?
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 3, 2009 6:42 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
absolutely
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 3, 2009 9:51 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
And something else that occurred to me during the latter part of the game
Maybe Garrett was trying to fix some issues in the passing game toward the end – get some players in and sync-up some of their play. Jsut a thought.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 3, 2009 10:19 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
a correct thought, thats exactly what he was doing
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 3, 2009 1:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
When did you talk to him?
You have the inside scoop?
by Realist Larry on Nov 3, 2009 9:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Okey dokey
you can be happy w/ an almost two-to-one pass/run ratio cause we won this wek.
Let’s see if that works against Philly on the road and later this year.
by Realist Larry on Nov 3, 2009 9:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
56.7% passing
is actually down from last year’s numbers
Versus Philly on the road, I’d think that Garrett, Romo, and company will do whatever it takes to try to take advantage of Philly’s weaknesses.
It doesn’t matter to me if we run 100% or pass 100%, or anything in between. Whatever it takes to win, that’s what matters.
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 3, 2009 9:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm only talking about this last game and the stats you posted above at this point
And during the first 3 quarters, according to you, there were exactly 50 plays, so it’s simple. I count 18 rushes and 32 passes (assuming those numbers are correct).
That is a 64% pass/ 36% rush ratio-
and that’s not good.
About 55/45 would be expected.
I’m not the only one who feels this way, plenty of others were wondering why Barber or Felix would rip off 8 yards, then he’d call 3 passes in a row.
I understand the general point you’re making, but games that Garret calls like this are scary, because good D’s and secondaries will feast off numbers like that.
Now, you could say we take what’s there-if the running game’s open they’ll just run more-but this isn’t a video game, players are human, and the coaches need to have a philosophy and a character that carries them through. That last game was too much “bad” Andy Reid -like, when he calls 70% passing plays.
Also, it’s not like “the running game wasn’t there and we were taking what the other team gave us,” as some are claiming. The running plays were working fine!
by Realist Larry on Nov 4, 2009 12:37 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
How can you say that it's not good
The goal isn’t to fit into a 55/45 mold. The goal is to win the game. So in this particular game, versus Seattle, it was good. Would those numbers be good for every game? No. Good for the whole season? No. But good versus Seattle for 3 quarters? You betcha – yes – whatever it takes to win.
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 4, 2009 9:58 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
But you don't know that we would have lost w/ a different ratio
And I doubt we would have.
There are a lot of benefits to running more, less chance of turnovers, wearing down the other D, etc.
And there were a # of passes that could have been interceptions-we had some luck. We also got some questionable pass interference calls that went our way.
Because it worked this game doesn’t mean it was necessarily ‘good.’
Somehow, I think we’ll end up agreeing to disagree on this!
by Realist Larry on Nov 4, 2009 5:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Rather than wonder about hypotheticals
let’s just be real. What actually happened?
The Cowboys were pass-heavy for 3 quarters of the game, and once the Special Teams added a TD, and the game was well in hand, the coach felt the freedom to play some guys off of the bench. And we won – big!
Who could possibly argue with that game plan?
I’m not suggesting that the same game plan will work versus other teams, but we weren’t playing other teams. Why should we have to game plan for Seattle as though they were Philly or the Giants? We don’t. We didn’t. We shouldn’t.
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 4, 2009 10:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I was just referring to
the drive that ended in the missed FG. It’s just a snapshot in what amounted to a blowout, so I’m probably just being really nitpicky.
by selke99 on Nov 2, 2009 5:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Jenkins has been hot for about a month
Scandrick had regressed. He’s starting to look like his rookie self again. And Newman seems to be learning that he won’t break in half if he hits somebody.
This is what we campers saw in San Antonio. I don’t know why they stuttered those first two to three weeks, but the secondary has some talent. If Sensabaugh could ever figure out how to catch those picks he keeps dropping, they could really run some teams off the field. (His thumb had nothing to do with today’s drop. It just went though his hands.)
by Rafael Vela on Nov 1, 2009 10:12 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
agreed
Jenkins is starting to shine.. I really like GSensabaugh.
"No matter where you go, you are what you are playa"-Jay Z
Twitter Account
by Wmillion on Nov 1, 2009 11:14 PM CST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
You didn't hear much from John Carlson yesterday did you?
Remember what Carlson to Keith Davis on Thanksgiving day last year? He looked like Kellen Winslow’s bastard son.
Sensabaugh means a lot to this team. And he was flying up in run support to. He’s not favoring that thumb at all.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 2, 2009 10:08 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Sensabaugh has been a beast!
I’m not as down on Scandrick. He had good coverage on Branch on that TD. Seemed like the ball went right through his hands and looked back late. I thought he made a few other plays though. He’ll only get better.
by selke99 on Nov 2, 2009 10:56 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
yeah if he looked back he would've at least knocked the ball down
"Austin made the play, Austin saved the day" Brad Sham
by Boyzfan94 on Nov 2, 2009 11:38 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He will probably get a new contract, thus ended the talk we will be using a high draft pick to get a safety...
Not like that was going to happen anyway..
"Austin made the play, Austin saved the day" Brad Sham
by Boyzfan94 on Nov 2, 2009 11:39 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He really does
The guy plays smart too.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 2, 2009 1:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Scandrick was positioned to intercept
that Seattle touchdown pass and blocked a 3rd down conversion throw. Why do you say he’s regressing? What is he doing/not doing? I didn’t see any major screw-ups from him against SEattle.
by Teacher on Nov 2, 2009 6:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm surprised at the play of Carpenter. A lot of us have criticized him mercilessly.
Could he actually be turning a corner?
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 1, 2009 10:16 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
hopefully cuz then we can trade him
he’ll never be able to start as an ILB in a 3-4
by quincyyyyy on Nov 1, 2009 10:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That was the first big play he has made all season.
I don’t know about him turning the corner. Trade bait?
Joseph O. Garcia
by JGsportsguy on Nov 2, 2009 12:10 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
not likely...He is the best nickel LB we have and one of the best ST players we have...
You can’t underestimate those kind of players……The two rookie LB’s we drafted aren’t even close to moving into that role.
"Austin made the play, Austin saved the day" Brad Sham
by Boyzfan94 on Nov 2, 2009 12:13 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Even a blind squirel finds an acorn once in a while.
Family, Friends, Cowboys, Beer & BBQ. Life is good!
by CowboyMan on Nov 2, 2009 12:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
gosh
The trade deadline has passed.
Do you want him to fail? He’s improved. He’s playing just as well as Burnett did last year in the nickel. Do you want him to thrive there and help the team, or fail, which means he’ll be replaced by….
who do they have to replace him? You ready to make a playoff run with Jason Williams and a bunch of crossed fingers?
by Rafael Vela on Nov 2, 2009 10:04 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
agree.........
he actually had a good game yesterday. Cut the guy some slack.
by texstar on Nov 2, 2009 10:20 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
For whatever reason some on here want him to fail miserably....
He has been one of the best special teams players on this team for 4 seasons and like you pointed out is just as good, if not a better nickel LB than Burnett who people loved and was a 2nd round pick. In fact, I think Carpenter is a better pass rusher than Burnett….Carpenter has finally seen some quality playing time in 4 seasons and has improved every week…Jason Williams is as green as they come and he isn’t anywhere near capable of being the nickel LB yet…..
"Austin made the play, Austin saved the day" Brad Sham
by Boyzfan94 on Nov 2, 2009 11:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
nobody wants to see him fail
It makes no sense that a Cowboys fan would want to see a Cowboys player fail.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 1:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You sure about that?
Cause he continues to take abuse even when he’s playing well. There are several people on this thread who take a good game as cause to trade him.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 3, 2009 10:39 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You can't trade him...
….because we are thin depth wise as it is. Still doesn’t mean he should have had a first round grade.
by Cash_BSR on Nov 3, 2009 11:36 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Raf, fans bitch about Carp because he isn't a physical player
and get abused in defending the run. I don’t think fans want to see him fail anymore than they want to see Romo fail because there certainly are as many Romo haters here as Carp haters.
I personally like the kid and think it’s a shame he’s playing out of position at ILB although I do think he’s found a nice niche as our nickel backer.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 3, 2009 1:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Carp could always blitz and cover
It’s shedding blockers to stop the run where he is horrible.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 7:31 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I actually credit Wade most of all for that blitz…
They clearly developed something in their game plan that exposed a huge weakness for the Seahawks up front. The exact same play worked with the exact same result later in the game with Brooking making the sack. You could see it on the field that boys D was well rehearsed and prepared when it came time to run that blitz.
The 2009 Dallas Cowboys: Talk to me in December.
The NFC East has won 11 Super Bowls; oddly none of those have come courtesy of the Eagles.
by gee-roj on Nov 2, 2009 8:52 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
that is Carp to a T
Ich bin ein Berliner--JFK
by HudBaby on Nov 2, 2009 11:41 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Normally true,
but didn’t he knock the blocker into the RB just prior to Newman popping him for a fumble/
by Teacher on Nov 2, 2009 6:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The best thing about Miles
Is that his success sets up the rest of the passing game. RW will break out more, I am sure, because Miles is now another focal point beyond Witten. Slip in Crayton, Ogletree once in a while and leverage their specific advantages. . .
. . and then it all helps Miles again.
And in the end, it just means too many targets to cover.
Now, for the running game. . .
by dfan77 on Nov 1, 2009 10:19 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Sam Hurd scored Dallas' 1st TD
lest you forget him
by AustonianAggie on Nov 2, 2009 1:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
yep, but what'sthe hurry?
I don’t want this team peaking now.
That’s what the ‘07 club did, and what last year’s Giants did. They peaked in November. THis isn’t the NCAA To win a title you have to play 19 to 20 games. It’s very, very hard to maintain high play that long. That’s why the power rankings are stupid.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 1, 2009 10:23 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
couldn't have said it better Raf
You never want to peak early, thats why having mediocre starts to the season is okay by me, finishing strong is what it’s all about in this league anymore.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 7:33 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
DFW fans can be negative at times...
including me. But just imagine what the Giants fans are saying about their team now! How’s that Canty signing working out?
by selke99 on Nov 2, 2009 10:58 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
They have the same snake-bitten set of injuries Dallas had last year
It’s gotta be frustrating…
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 2, 2009 1:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Dallas just blew out 2 home games in a row
that sounds like peaking to me…
by AustonianAggie on Nov 2, 2009 1:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm touching on your last point
Not being hostile, just saying I’ll be happy for slow, steady improvement.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 1, 2009 10:25 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
oh, no worries
I think we’re far from peaking, to be honest. My comment about the running game was reflective of my disbelief at how little Choice was used today. After we develop even more passing options (hopefully), then perhaps JG can figure out a way to best mix-up and utilize our backs.
And then, how to effectively mix-up both passing and running.
I think the players are coming along well. . .I just don’t see all the tools being used in the right proportion yet.
And remember (not that you or anyone does), I’m the guy who called for three straight losses spanning late Nov/early December. I think our test will be the two games after that — do we collapse? http://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2009/10/18/1090368/huge-day-to-jumpstart-the-boys
For now, we’re slowly putting pieces together, though. I hope the coaches can keep up!
Thx for another great article!
by dfan77 on Nov 1, 2009 10:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Been able to enjoy these last 2 victories
And they even put a team away today.
Now some real games start. We’ll see if they can win at least one on the road against teams w/talent.
Have to agree with the post above, though-the playcalling was way too heavy on pass plays, especially on 1st down, especially in the first half.
Garrett needs to learn to jab the opponent before going for the big hit. There were a lot of throws today that would have been picks against good secondaries.
I don’t think this offense will be able to score later in the year, when weather kicks in and pressure tightens everything up, against good teams, if Garrett insists on living and dying by the pass. The running game is working, use it more early-
not Mike Singletary 2 yards and a cloud of dust, just a better balance.
Some people will say why worry, it’s working-but will it work in Dec. or against playoff teams?
by Realist Larry on Nov 1, 2009 10:29 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
In case you haven't noticed
The Saints pass a lot too and so did the Cards when they made their SB run. It’s a passing league and still will be in Dec and Jan as well.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 7:35 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Saints can run it pretty well too...
as evidenced when they ran it down Buffalo’s throat when Brees was struggling this year. And under Wisenhunt this year looks like he’s trying to work in Wells and Hightower more now. Pittsburgh won it all last year with almost no running game (and likewise played an Arizona team in the SB that was all pass), so there’s no doubt that with the contact rule change this is a passing league. I just think it helps your chances better if you’re also able to run it when you need to.
I can’t stand Tom Jackson on Countdown who still maintains you need to ball control with the run almost exclusively to win in today’s league. He almost insinuates that the Pats won 3 SBs doing this instead of the spread offense they’re doing now. But I remember Brady throwing it to a bunch of role players and setting up all those game winning drives with the pass. It was hilarious when Carter threw it in his face that both Super Bowl teams last year couldn’t run!
by selke99 on Nov 2, 2009 11:07 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
and the Cowboys can run when they need to
and they pass when they need to, whatever the defense is giving them, thats what they’re doing.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 1:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
but where are these cold weather games?
they play the Eagles late in Dallas. They play New Orleans in a dome. The farthest north they travel the last month is Washington.
Unless they’re going back to Philly for a rematch, they’re not seeing really cold weather.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 1, 2009 10:31 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Well, playoffs are a possibility
and Washington, and even the next 2 games, depending.
But also, I think good teams/good D’s/good secondaries are going to make it much tougher to pas 1st/run 2nd.
Also, there’s more pressure mentally-esp. a young guy like Austin. In the playoffs it’ll be mentally tougher to execute the passing game-whereas running the ball is easier to carry over.
Again, I don’t want to go all Parcells conservative, but sometimes Garrett just goes overboard.
E.G., 3rd and short at one point and he motions Hurd (?) into the backfield and hands it of to him? Wha..?
And he fumbled, but we got it back.
by Realist Larry on Nov 1, 2009 11:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
perhaps
but can anybody say that this team has a settled character on offense? They’re still trying to sort out the receivers, how to use the tight ends, and how to use the backs. What I’ve seen the last two weeks is they’re back to the opening day rotation, which is Jones and Barber alternating series and Choice getting all the 3rd down plays.
But they’re still mixing and matching. Romo and Roy are not in sync. Witten is not seeing the balls as much as in the past, Crayton’s role is shifting. Heck, Ogletree got some plays today.
And they’re still scoring 37, 38 points a game. Makes you wonder what they’ll do if they really start clicking? Cause they still haven’t figured it out yet.
But I see that as a nice problem to have.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 1, 2009 11:09 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
They are managing to put up the points, you're right.
I’d say two things: it’s at the point where finding a a character might be a good thing,
And, I’m waiting to see them put up 30+ on the road against a good D.
I did like a lot of physical plays today:
1) Crayton pushing the punter aside on his TD,
2) Felix (Yes, he should be getting 50% or more of the carries) knocking the guy down a la Barber (hope the guys OK, loved how the Seattle coaches called it a ‘stinger’ when the guy obviously had a concussion)
3) Newman’s fumble-causing hit
4) Anyone rewatching Barber’s TD, watch how a CB comes over late to deliver a hit, and just bounces of him!
by Realist Larry on Nov 1, 2009 11:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I love the number 4 one.
~Texas Massacre '09~
by TheHeat on Nov 2, 2009 11:07 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Romo and RW are so close to getting on the same page. We are going to need that. Good to see Ogletree, Hurd, and Tellus get some quality looks. Yes, another healthy game for Felix. Is just me or is Barber a step slow since returning from injury?
"No matter where you go, you are what you are playa"-Jay Z
Twitter Account
by Wmillion on Nov 1, 2009 11:28 PM CST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
He does...
…and he doesn’t look as if he is punishing guys at the end of his runs like he used to. For now, I wouldn’t mind seeing Choice get more carries and Barber get less. Ideally if the Cowboys ran the ball 30 times in a game it would be great if each of these guys had 10 carries a piece.
The Giants last year had a great method for getting all three of their backs involved. I’m hoping Garrett finds a similar process for his group by playoff time.
As happy as I am with the resurgence of the passing game, this team will need a balanced attack if they hope to win in the post season, (assuming they make it).
The 2009 Dallas Cowboys: Talk to me in December.
The NFC East has won 11 Super Bowls; oddly none of those have come courtesy of the Eagles.
by gee-roj on Nov 2, 2009 7:38 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
My guess..
JG is willing to take a slight hit on YPC in exchange for MB3’s ability to protect Romo.
I think we could get more out of the running game with Choice getting a greater sum of carriers.
"No matter where you go, you are what you are playa"-Jay Z
Twitter Account
by Wmillion on Nov 2, 2009 9:27 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That's exactly it
MBIII is able to run and he’s almost a one-man “max protect” back there. Notice how much better’s Romo’s pocket looks this season, and we also see what he can do with a tiny bit of extra time to throw. It’s not just whether they get to Romo or not. It’s Romo’s confidence in the pocket that he can go through his reads and not try to throw too early. That’s a leading cause of picks for any QB.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 2, 2009 1:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I was remiss in not mentioning this earlier
FREE THE OGLETREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!
Awesome to see him on the field and making a play….
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 2, 2009 7:43 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
agreed..
"No matter where you go, you are what you are playa"-Jay Z
Twitter Account
by Wmillion on Nov 2, 2009 9:28 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He had a WR screen yesterday..looked really fast....I would really like to see more of him
"Austin made the play, Austin saved the day" Brad Sham
by Boyzfan94 on Nov 2, 2009 9:31 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It's hard to get on the field as a rookie WR in Dallas right now.
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
by DIRE WOLF on Nov 2, 2009 1:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
would love to see Ogletree replace Hurd as the 4th this season
"Austin made the play, Austin saved the day" Brad Sham
by Boyzfan94 on Nov 2, 2009 4:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Hurd did make all that 2nd effort to score his TD
He’s not relegated to the bench yet.
by AustonianAggie on Nov 2, 2009 6:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You're right
… and we can control the playoffs. The other three potiential division winners are Arizona, New Orleans, and Minnesota … all dome teams. If we win our division there will be no cold weather games in the playoffs.
by northtexan95 on Nov 2, 2009 7:09 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It has less to do with cold weather...
…and more to do with the quality of the opponent’s defense. Against a good defensive team a balanced attack is the best approach. Don’t give them anything they can key off of.
Imagine playing the Saints in the post season. I’d rather see the Cowboys offense grind out 6 to 8 minute long drives that keeps the Saint O on the sideline; rather than get into a shoot out with them.
Not to mention this trio of running backs is way too good to not be used. Yesterday when the boys were up 38-10 I thought it was the perfect time to grind out a run heavy drive.
The 2009 Dallas Cowboys: Talk to me in December.
The NFC East has won 11 Super Bowls; oddly none of those have come courtesy of the Eagles.
by gee-roj on Nov 2, 2009 7:45 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Balanced Offense
To me a balanced offense is not an even run/pass split, but rather the ability to run or pass depending on the strength or tactics of the opposing defense. If the other team feels they need to take away the run, then why run. We may be able to run well, but I think we run well based on misdirection, draw plays. We also have had some big plays that help our overall running average. I don’t think we can just line up and get three yards at will on a consistent bases.
by staubachfan on Nov 2, 2009 9:08 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with that...
…but when up 38-10, in the 4th I’d rather see, a run, run, pass, punt scenario that eats some clock as opposed to throwing on first down inside your own 15. And yesterday it unfortunately resulted in a turnover and Seahawk TD.
The 2009 Dallas Cowboys: Talk to me in December.
The NFC East has won 11 Super Bowls; oddly none of those have come courtesy of the Eagles.
by gee-roj on Nov 2, 2009 9:28 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
If I'm trying to run out the clock
And they are protecting against the run. I would want to see run, safe pass, screen, and hopefully first down.
by staubachfan on Nov 2, 2009 9:54 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
you don't run on 3rd and long
unless there is 2 minutes left in the game or you have a really big lead ( 3 or more TDs)
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 10:23 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
or you are very deep near your own endzone
and you need to give your punter some room to punt
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 2, 2009 11:21 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
PC Love
I know people are loving on Crayton at the moment. I only saw highlights…but I saw a PC who gave up blocking on the Sam Hurd TD. Last game (I think), I saw a PC who gave up on a route b/c he was double covered…and Romo PASSED to him! (I think).
Anyone else concerned? Crayton is not talented enough to not do these kinds of things, even though he really can’t beat double coverage.
Or am I just being a Gloomy Gus here?
by blee on Nov 1, 2009 10:33 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Morning, Gus.
"We'll see." --Bill Parcells
by Uncle Angus on Nov 2, 2009 7:24 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah not concerned.
Crayton is doing a great job in his current role.
"No matter where you go, you are what you are playa"-Jay Z
Twitter Account
by Wmillion on Nov 2, 2009 9:30 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Crayton's fumble
Quick question. On the reverse that Crayton fumbled, would he have been able to throw a forward pass to get an imcompletion rather than a 10-yd loss?
by Turbo73 on Nov 1, 2009 10:33 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
My thoughts exactly
For a guy who used to be a QB in college..i thought he could have just thrown it out of bounds and avoided the loss
by thejanusman on Nov 1, 2009 11:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Would it have been a penalty for illegeal man down field?
There were linemen down there blocking. Not sure.
Joseph O. Garcia
by JGsportsguy on Nov 2, 2009 12:25 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I missed seeing the O-Linemen Downfield...
by thejanusman on Nov 2, 2009 9:36 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not sure there was but I think it's a great point
If it’s a designed running play, I would bet that a lineman was downfield.
by staubachfan on Nov 2, 2009 9:55 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
We were all yelling "Throw it away!"
Easier I guess when we’re not the ones running around in front of 100,000 people.
by Realist Larry on Nov 1, 2009 11:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Where did you watch the game?
Family, Friends, Cowboys, Beer & BBQ. Life is good!
by CowboyMan on Nov 2, 2009 12:52 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That place in Rocklin
it’s not perfect but better than nothing
(And my wife was busy so I even skipped church! And they still won.!)
by Realist Larry on Nov 2, 2009 5:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
There was probably linemen down field blocking.
So would it be better to have a 10 yard loss or illegal man downfield penalty … which would be even further back.
by northtexan95 on Nov 2, 2009 7:12 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Scandrick Hate
And I don’t know if I am too easy on the corners, but the TD he gave us was just a great pass/unlucky that Scandrick didn’t look up a SPLIT-SECOND earlier. Can you blame Orlando for that?
I don’t blame Newman for that Brandon Marshall score either (BM has a 6 inch height advantage). How did he look today? Looks like he let Branch get behind him on that catch that set up the score…or were they playing zone, and could that have been on Sensi?
by blee on Nov 1, 2009 10:36 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
He had nice coverage
it was a great throw by Hasselback to sneak it by him!
by Realist Larry on Nov 1, 2009 11:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
No, that's just excellent execution on Seattle's part
it’s what they say about good pitching beating good hitting.
Good execution beats good coverage every time. That was in impressive throw by Hasselbeck, cause Spencer had made him bail out early the play before and was in his lap on this play as well.
I don’t know how much closer you can get to a sack without getting it. Spencer is due some sacks the next month. He’s getting better at rushing. He was “right there” about five or six times today, and has been since the Chiefs game.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 1, 2009 11:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I vote he gets them next week.
Why is it so much fan to see McNabb get laid out?
by Benthere on Nov 1, 2009 11:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Great write up Raf.
Sounds like another great game. Another great game that I didn’t get to watch. Grr….I’m still just wondering when Tony and RW are going to get on the same page.
You can do a lot of things in life. You can't stab a teammate with a pair of scissors. - Kevin Smith
by kameleon_o on Nov 1, 2009 11:09 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Where have you been Kam?
I haven’t seen you post here in a while!
Just becuz you put yer boots in the oven don't make it bread
by dcfansinceiwasababy on Nov 2, 2009 9:45 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I still come in and read a lot
Ive been real busy lately working 6 days a week almost exclusively and then I picked up golf which has been taking up all my free time. I gotta start posting more here though. This is where I get my Cowboys fix.
You can do a lot of things in life. You can't stab a teammate with a pair of scissors. - Kevin Smith
by kameleon_o on Nov 2, 2009 5:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Well, I am so happy to see you!!
Just becuz you put yer boots in the oven don't make it bread
by dcfansinceiwasababy on Nov 3, 2009 9:41 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
PS
A little Chris Evert crush from the old days?
" The Cowboys played some Chris Evert football today and it couldn’t be sexier."
I always found her more attractive than Navratilova, can’t imagine why.
by Realist Larry on Nov 1, 2009 11:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I was not an Evert fan
probably because she played such droning tennis. I loved Martina, because he attacked the net and made the baseliners work.
Martina was also a big Cowboys fan in the ’90s.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 1, 2009 11:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Well, I was talking how they looked in their skirts more than playing style!
But I know what you mean.
I watched a lot of men’s tennis in those days, even though I rarely played, because of the rivalries/personalities-Connor/ McEnroe/ Borg-and always rooted for Connor.
Women’s tennis was like the WNBA, boring.
by Realist Larry on Nov 1, 2009 11:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
ha ha - because "he" attacked the net...not sure if that was on purpose or a
type, but either way it’s pretty close to accurate
by Loozeeana_Cowboy on Nov 1, 2009 11:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
yeah whats up with that
does he not have a closing burst or something cuz he can never seem to finish it off.
by quincyyyyy on Nov 1, 2009 11:14 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
No, I think it's just luck
He’s much smoother. He’s not trying to go around backs and ends the way he did in the first two to three games. He’s going though them and getting even closer than before. He’s also showing a better burst on OTs; he’s flattening out and closing down from the edge better.
He’s has not hit a plateau. Look at him now and in week two and he’s better. I just think the breakout has not happened. If it starts next week, I won’t complain.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 1, 2009 11:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Just wrap up on McNabb!
SO tired of McFlabb wriggling out of 2-3 sacks every Dallas game it seems…
by blee on Nov 2, 2009 12:21 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
easier said than done
McNabb is practically as big as the guys who are gonna try to tackle him.
by foyesboys on Nov 2, 2009 2:03 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
yes he is
but, he will give our secondary a couple of chances to pick him off.
"No matter where you go, you are what you are playa"-Jay Z
Twitter Account
by Wmillion on Nov 2, 2009 9:36 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Only if they happen to be
lying flat on the ground five yards behind the WR… heh heh.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 2, 2009 1:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Agree for the most part,
but just a quick question. What do you mean by
I don’t blame Newman for that Brandon Marshall score either (BM has a 6 inch height advantage)
Newman’s size could be considered a disadvantage, a weakness. Thats like saying you don’t blame a player for being slow or that you don’t blame a WR for a drop. Just because he cant help it doesn’t make it an excuse.
The Knights season may have just ended, but the Cowboys year is just begining!
by aussie_cowboy on Nov 2, 2009 2:03 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
perfect pass beats great coverage
and almost all CB’s are 5’11’’ are shorter…but most players can be fast, and WR’s are expected to catch. funny how almost all QB’s complete over 50% of their passes too…
by blee on Nov 2, 2009 10:06 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
not a slip on the "he"
I’m a sloppy typist and I also have a keyboard that sticks a lot.
Sorry, Martina, that was not intentional. LOL
by Rafael Vela on Nov 1, 2009 11:13 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
By the way, did Hurd show enough speed for you on that TD play?
by Realist Larry on Nov 1, 2009 11:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Not Only Speed
But what a catch; he showed great hands and body control; BTW, was that the same route that went for a TD (Austin I think) in a recent game?
by Iowacowboy on Nov 2, 2009 6:30 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Didn't Chris Everett ..
play for the Rams??
by spadesking131313 on Nov 1, 2009 11:20 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Ask Jim Romo
if you can get him out from under the table!
by Rafael Vela on Nov 1, 2009 11:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
And isn't Jim Rome ..
the intern who was sleeping with Steve Phillips??
Oh .. my bad
by spadesking131313 on Nov 1, 2009 11:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, that's so wrong
(reaching for the brain bleach)
by Rafael Vela on Nov 1, 2009 11:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
"Rome" lol
You’ve got Cowboys on the mind!
by Realist Larry on Nov 1, 2009 11:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think that was Jim Everett
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 1, 2009 11:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Was ..
Guess you never saw the spoof with Rome and Everett (the football player)
by spadesking131313 on Nov 1, 2009 11:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
sorry - yes, guess I missed something there
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 1, 2009 11:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
During an interview ...
Jim Rome referenced Jim Everett as “Chris”. Jim warned Rome .. “If you call me that one more time” …. the rest is … well I guess you can check it out on youtube or sumtin
by spadesking131313 on Nov 1, 2009 11:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It's why I don't watch ESPN
why play up a guy who’s trying to make his rep cheesing off star players?
Same shtick with Skippy, Werder and a lot of other maroons there.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 1, 2009 11:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yep ..
We should start a “boycott” on ESPN .. and only watch when we have to. … Its a shame cus .. Used to love ESPN, and watching Sportcenter when I was younger, was a must .. but that was with Dan Patrick and those guys. … Now every little damn thing they try to make “news” about, and the “reporters” they got now, including the newly retired S. Phillips are a bunch of meetheads
by spadesking131313 on Nov 1, 2009 11:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I dont watch any ESPN
I once liked sportcenter, but then they added all this extra content. ESPN covers sports like MTV covers music
by AustonianAggie on Nov 2, 2009 1:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Called him "Chrissy" actually. I was glad when he went after him.
by Benthere on Nov 1, 2009 11:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Like the Rocky character ..
“Hit me and I’ll sue” ..
by spadesking131313 on Nov 1, 2009 11:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
thanks
don’t think I’d seen that before
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 1, 2009 11:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
They renamed his show after that interview ...
for a while they called it “Jim Rome is RUNNING .. HIDING .. UNDER THE TABLE”. Then he grew a mustache and it was “burning” again.
by spadesking131313 on Nov 1, 2009 11:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It wasn't a spoof to Romie
when he thought Everett was going to clock him.
I have never seen a man run so fast and look so scared on TV.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 1, 2009 11:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah ..
if they brought back “Celebrity Boxing” .. love to see Aikman-"Balls"less and Rome V Everett
by spadesking131313 on Nov 1, 2009 11:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Whatever happened to Brewster?
wasn’t he supposed to come off pup last week or something?
by quincyyyyy on Nov 1, 2009 11:21 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I just read after last Sundays game (21st) they had to make a decision on him...
My guess is they sent him to IR….I haven’t seen anything offical though.
"Austin made the play, Austin saved the day" Brad Sham
by Boyzfan94 on Nov 2, 2009 12:11 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
They will probably place him on IR since he won't help the team..I didn't like the pick to begin with anyway....
"Austin made the play, Austin saved the day" Brad Sham
by Boyzfan94 on Nov 1, 2009 11:58 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Posted on previous post ..
What if Dallas waited a year to trade for a #1 WR?
It is quite possible, they would have drafted Percy Harvin, and could have traded for Dwayne Bowe near the trade deadline. Can you imagine having Harvin on STs and lining up Austin, Harvin and Bowe, with Witten?
by spadesking131313 on Nov 2, 2009 12:02 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Had Jerry Waited on Roy
The odds are very good that we could have had Roy anyway, and still drafted Percy Harvin or drafted a center like Unger.
by Iowacowboy on Nov 2, 2009 6:28 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Would Austin have been given his chance if we drafted another WR in the first round
remember the only reason Austin was given a chance is because Roy got hurt
by quincyyyyy on Nov 2, 2009 9:03 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
shakes head
Percy Harvin dropped to his spot because he failed a drug test. He probably wasn’t on Dallas’ board.
If Dallas was going to target a WR in round one it was Maclin. But remember, Philly traded up to get him, so Dallas probably would have had to move up five or six spots from 20, which translates to, roughly, drum roll please….
a 1st and a 3rd.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 2, 2009 9:51 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
first and foremost...i loathe Jim Rome
Now that that’s off my chest.
The Felix Jones muy thai knee/stiff arm from hell was the highlight of the game for me. I’ll say it again as much as I love some Tashard Choice, I can’t find away to justify taking carries away from Barber and Jones. I just can’t.
Crayton…come on man…the punt returns are amazing…hey how bout holding on to the ball…fumbles and muffed punts…you aren’t going to return a punt for a td every game…you seem to be dropping balls every game. That will lose a game faster than a return td will win it.
Romo…what more can i say other than ka kow! Hell i even loved the throw away…smart football there.
Barber step it up bud, you showed flashes but im chalking that up too injury recovery. 100 percent confident in that.
The secondary is playing good, i love it. I’m sorry to the guy up there but i fully blame the non interceptions by sensi on the cast, fully.
Was that Bobby Carpenter out there? Noooo….couldn’t 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 Nov 2, 2009 12:16 AM CST via mobile reply actions 0 recs
it was raf i disagreed with on gerald
I believe that may be the first time we disagree…although i do think maybe this one went through his hands but i dont see him catching it even if he got his hands on it.
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 Nov 2, 2009 3:09 AM CST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
maybe i'm crazy
but i just watched nfl gameday final on nfl network twice….heard and saw them mention showing the cowboys game several times…even at that bottom “still to come cowboys vs. seahawks”…yet….they didn’t show them…am i crazy…did anyone else notice this? Honestly i’m pretty frustrated at this point.
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 Nov 2, 2009 3:03 AM CST via mobile reply actions 0 recs
They got in a little
of Romo’s post-game presser, just a little something to break up the Favre slobberfest.
Keep doing what you been doing, keep getting what you been getting.
by OskieOskie on Nov 2, 2009 10:54 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
yeah Favre was ridiculus, at one point it was
Fox, ESPN, ESPN2 and NFLN all showing him simultaneously for 5 min, I almost went for Home and Garden TV channel
by dcfanz on Nov 2, 2009 2:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Victor Butler Sighting
He had a couple of great hits, one in particuar I think on punt coverage. Watkins continues his great play on kick coverage.
by Iowacowboy on Nov 2, 2009 6:12 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
I noticed Alan Ball as often as I noticed Watkins on ST's.
"Everybody wants something but nobody wants to pay the price" - Michael Irvin
by 24Hz on Nov 2, 2009 8:50 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Key Concerns:
Raf says:
The Seahawks moved the ball. They were fairly effective running the ball. Their defense did not allow the Cowboys’ runners to find a rhythm.
I am wondering why the Cowboy running game seems to sputter and why are we giving up so much on the ground?
by Iowacowboy on Nov 2, 2009 6:33 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Our run defense isn't that bad
Take away two Gore runs without our best run-stuffing DT Mebane and we’re top 10.
Broncos 12 Bengals 7: The story of the 2009 Seattle Seahawks.
by SSreporters on Nov 2, 2009 9:41 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
My thoughts..
1- rush D- I love Rat, and what he brings, but I think he lack of size hurts us slight in run D, but helps us tremendously in the pass D.
2- Rush O-I think Barber’s lack of burst hurts in rushing game, but helps us tremendously in pass protection, and blitz protections.
"No matter where you go, you are what you are playa"-Jay Z
Twitter Account
by Wmillion on Nov 2, 2009 9:45 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That maybe true now
But in a world where your QB has more influence on Superbowl success than your RB, i’ll take the pass rushing DT.
not that I agree with you that Ratliff is weak against the run
by AustonianAggie on Nov 2, 2009 1:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I dunno if it's been mentioned
But did anyone notice the one long run Felix took to the sidelines? The one where he looked like he was going to jump over the defender and ended up colliding head on? That’s the exact kind of run he needs to avoid and just step out of bounds. Luckily it was the defender who took the punishment and got hurt instead of Felix. How has nobody mentioned this to him? Fighting for yards to make the 1st is one thing, but when you left the 1st down marker many yards behind you, it’s ok to step out instead of beating up your body. And for what? An extra 2 feet?
Summarizing the Dallas Cowboys in two words; inconsistently amazing.
by sublimezg on Nov 2, 2009 7:14 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
I don't know.
I think Felix gets hurt more going past guys and having them take out his legs. If he had gone out on that play, one of those guys would have still probably shoved or undercut him from the side, which is how he got hurt last time, if I remember correctly.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 2, 2009 10:08 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Good observation
I’ve been thinking the same thing. Felix has been side tackled , and subsequently his legs buckle , on those sideline runs.
His launch/bulldozer move on the DB to me was a realization that he can control the hit better that way, rather than risk injury with a sideline move.
Hope the DB is ok, but it was nice to see that KO’d look as he sat on the sideline.
Let’s see Asante Samuels wind up the same way next week……….
by oldtimer on Nov 2, 2009 11:56 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree
when Felix took that leap, i immeaditely thought he did it so he could control the hit
by AustonianAggie on Nov 2, 2009 1:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Good point
and maybe that’s why he did it? Interesting idea.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 2, 2009 1:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Randall Cunningham always said that's why he did it.
Because he felt if his legs weren’t planted, he couldn’t get twisted up or bent wrong.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 3, 2009 1:48 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Anyone else see this coming, EVER?
“Patrick Crayton, the human joystick”? It’s beyond bizarre.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 2, 2009 7:37 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
I think the trade off for Crayton was ball security vs. explosiveness. Since he lost his job due to drops anyway, I think he has been looking upfield more, leading to those returns. Who knew he had it in him?
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 2, 2009 10:09 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He looks faster this season
while running like he’s not even trying. What happened?
by blee on Nov 2, 2009 11:03 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I do recall
that right before he lost all memory, Rossum was giving him some pointers on his first moves up the field.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 2, 2009 1:45 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I have had to watch the past 2 games on DVR and mostly 20 min at a time
But in good concience I need to post. I was one of the people who said the season was basically done after the Denver loss and KC game. The team was finding ways to lose or play down to the competition with the same blunders that has been their pattern. Too many stupid plays and penalties and Romo being careless. Two solid wins later I have to man up and acknowledge both were very good performances and give reason to be optimistic. I am definitely off suicide watch. Keep up the smarter play and continue to avoid serious injuries and who knows. This is a lot more fun.
by StillHateTheGiants on Nov 2, 2009 7:48 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
good to see you eat some crow
I told you to have faith and believe that they would get better and they have and the best is yet to come
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 7:50 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm happy to eat crow because that means the Cowboys are winning
This week will be a real test, I hoping I’m eating a double serving next Monday.
by StillHateTheGiants on Nov 2, 2009 9:09 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm in the same boat
He looked like an average QB early in the year. Last 2 games he looks top 5 in the league! Can’t remember but someone on TV last night said (maybe Dilfer) he’s playing best QB in the division.
by selke99 on Nov 2, 2009 11:27 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think
it’s been a transition year not just for Romo but the whole offense. They’ve changed some things up (like tempo getting to the line, greater diversity of players getting involved, different running plays/formations) and I think they are still getting comfortable with all of it. For Romo it’s obvious stuff – trying to be less risky while improvising when needed, securing the ball with two hands but being able to pass if he escapes pressure, and as he said aftr the game, using his improved ability to read the defenses for good and not for evil…
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 2, 2009 1:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
If nothing else, I think we can say that Romo
is true to his word that he is working on minimizing his mistakes. Of course, credit to the o-line and RBs as well for much better blitz pick ups than last season. But Romo is throwing a lot more balls away this season when things are not shaping up and that bodes well.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 2, 2009 7:57 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Next week will be the true test
The Eagles, in the past, have been good at forcing Romo into making mistakes. We’ll see if he can stay patient next week and not force things; especially if the O is struggling early on.
I went into the season expecting a split with Eagles this year; if that holds true I’d much rather see the Cowboys win the season closer at home, (but here’s to hoping the Cowboys can sweep this year).
The 2009 Dallas Cowboys: Talk to me in December.
The NFC East has won 11 Super Bowls; oddly none of those have come courtesy of the Eagles.
by gee-roj on Nov 2, 2009 8:04 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'd rather be facing the Eagles
playing like they are now as opposed to how they looked earlier in the season. They at least have a little confidence and balance going. As always, it’ll be about execution for both of these teams and you never know that until they take the field.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 2, 2009 8:21 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Here's an interesting stat on Romo vs. Philly, which I'm gonna flog all week:
’07
38 points in game one
6 points in game two
’08
41 points in game one
6 points in game two
It’s the rematches where he’s struggled. He’s burned them in the openers.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 2, 2009 9:59 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Romo has had 3 awful games against Philly.
Ruined my Christmas in 06.
by houseofprime on Nov 2, 2009 10:22 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
If this one good game one badpattern holds true this year...
..than I’d honestly rather see it reversed.
The 2009 Dallas Cowboys: Talk to me in December.
The NFC East has won 11 Super Bowls; oddly none of those have come courtesy of the Eagles.
by gee-roj on Nov 2, 2009 10:58 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
As long as we're making a wish list
Let’s trash the pattern all together. Is it a rule that he has to have a stinker?
by StillHateTheGiants on Nov 2, 2009 2:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
This is part of the Romo Can't win in December crap
I say crap because its the team not just Romo that struggles late in the season. I think it’s been more due to teams playing us late in the year have a lot more film to use against us and find ways to figure out what and how we’ve been successful during the season. My opinion, we haven’t made good mid season adjustments and have basically shown all of our cards during the first half of the season. That then causes Romo to press trying to make a play.
If I’m right, the fact that we are still trying to figure out how to use all our weapons will help break this pattern.
by staubachfan on Nov 2, 2009 11:27 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think this stat says it all
Romo in his career has 10 games with out an INT and 5 of them have occurred this season.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 8:37 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
A very clear sign that he's heading towards his prime...
I’ve always felt like his best football was yet to come and still think this is the case. Every great QB has a moment when the graduate to the next level of execution, and Romo is heading there. Perhaps even will be there by season’s end.
The 2009 Dallas Cowboys: Talk to me in December.
The NFC East has won 11 Super Bowls; oddly none of those have come courtesy of the Eagles.
by gee-roj on Nov 2, 2009 8:48 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm really happy with our blitz protection the last couple of games.
And Philly is going to be a great test for that, too.
"Everybody wants something but nobody wants to pay the price" - Michael Irvin
by 24Hz on Nov 2, 2009 8:53 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Denver Loss and KC Win
I think the Denver loss kind of allowed Brookings to step into a more vocal leadership role that is accepted by the players. The KC win in overtime brought the players closer together and showed them what they can do if the don’t give up.
by staubachfan on Nov 2, 2009 9:48 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
KC win taught them to give the ball to Miles Austin
have faith in a guy you’ve been developing on your roster for 4 years… that could bring a team together.
by AustonianAggie on Nov 2, 2009 1:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
A little off topic here..
…but the picture of Carpenter making that sack caused me to think about this…
Is anyone else annoyed that he wears the number 54 (Randy White’s old number)? Why isn’t that number retired for one; and if it is to be worn by someone else, make it someone who deserves to wear it; i.e. Michael Irvin earned the right to wear Drew Pearson’s’ number as has D. Ware earned the right to wear Charles Haley’s old number. Unless Bobby has a pro bowl season this year, he should have to wear a different number next year (assuming he’s still a Cowboy).
The 2009 Dallas Cowboys: Talk to me in December.
The NFC East has won 11 Super Bowls; oddly none of those have come courtesy of the Eagles.
by gee-roj on Nov 2, 2009 8:00 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
How did Michael Irvin earn the right? He had the number before he did anything on the field
Lifetime Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
by Seanrude on Nov 2, 2009 8:08 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Okay semantics…
Perhaps I should have said that he proved himself worthy of the honor of wearing Drew Pearson’s old number by setting a legacy of his own; rather than having a disappointing career, i.e. Carp so far.
You’ll never see someone wear a number 74, 12, 8, 22, or 88 again for the Dallas Cowboys. I just feel like Randy White’s career disserves the same consideration and that Carp should have never been given that number in the first place. But since he was, he should have a legendary career in his own right or else stop wearing the number.
Darren Woodson, for example, belongs in the ring of honor someday but Felix has played well enough, at this point to continue the honor of wearing Woodson’s old number.
The 2009 Dallas Cowboys: Talk to me in December.
The NFC East has won 11 Super Bowls; oddly none of those have come courtesy of the Eagles.
by gee-roj on Nov 2, 2009 8:41 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Didn't Antonio Bryant wear #88?
The cowboys don’t retire numbers per se, though some are off limits. I don’t think anyone has worn #12 since Roger hung it up. I doubt we will see anybody wear #22 or #8 again. Other numbers are up for grabs. There are two #43s (Don Perkins and Cliff Harris) in the Ring of Honor and two #54s (RAndy White and CHuck Howley). #74 has been worn a few times as well.
Is Carpenter playing up to the legacy of #54 as established by Howley and then White? Clearly not
Lifetime Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
by Seanrude on Nov 2, 2009 10:42 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Danny Noonan wore #74 I think
Lifetime Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
by Seanrude on Nov 2, 2009 10:43 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I take it back then
I thnk someone wore #74 though
Lifetime Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
by Seanrude on Nov 2, 2009 10:48 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
#74
DT – 1999 – Greg Wilkins is listed on the roster as wearing 74, but played in zero games for zero stats
No one besides that ever wore #74 except in pre-season games
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 2, 2009 11:33 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Where did you find that info?
Please tell me there is a site with all the Cowboys Players and numbers. I have time to waste!
Lifetime Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
by Seanrude on Nov 2, 2009 11:56 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 2, 2009 12:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
the info at that link only runs through 2003 though
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 2, 2009 12:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I can kill days with that
Lifetime Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
by Seanrude on Nov 2, 2009 12:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Cowboys don't retire their jerseys
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 8:38 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes they do...
No one has worn number 12 since Staubach retired for example.
The 2009 Dallas Cowboys: Talk to me in December.
The NFC East has won 11 Super Bowls; oddly none of those have come courtesy of the Eagles.
by gee-roj on Nov 2, 2009 8:42 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
no they don't
Certain numbers are unofficially retired, but technically the team doesn’t officially retire them.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 9:03 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Jerry hasn't permitted any official jersey retirements
but he has informally put a few off-limits.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 2, 2009 9:14 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
same thing in my book...
"Austin made the play, Austin saved the day" Brad Sham
by Boyzfan94 on Nov 2, 2009 9:27 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
really?
I thought it was just up to the players? Why would Jerry informally put #8 and #22 off limits but not #88?
by blee on Nov 2, 2009 10:24 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
because Drew Pearson gave the okay
since he thought a lot of Irvin coming out of college.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 10:27 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
hm ok
But did Irvin give Antonio Bryant the ok?
by blee on Nov 2, 2009 10:28 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think after Bryant Jerry put an end to anyone using #88
Carpenter is one of my boys, but I dont get him wearing #54…that one doesn’t make sense.
"Austin made the play, Austin saved the day" Brad Sham
by Boyzfan94 on Nov 2, 2009 11:50 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
gee-roj
How did Irvin and Ware earn that right when they were given 88 and 94 respectively their rookie years before they even played one game?
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 8:41 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
94?....Haley was great, but he wasnt a great Cowboy....88 is not worn by an active player to this day...
same goes for 8 or 22…
"Austin made the play, Austin saved the day" Brad Sham
by Boyzfan94 on Nov 2, 2009 8:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
really who?
that bums me out if so. I know that in the preseason some of those numbers were used but I didn’t think anyone on the active roster was wearing them.
The 2009 Dallas Cowboys: Talk to me in December.
The NFC East has won 11 Super Bowls; oddly none of those have come courtesy of the Eagles.
by gee-roj on Nov 2, 2009 8:53 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
no, I said no active player has those numbers....
Jerry may not offically have those numbers retired, but they unoffically are and will never, ever be used again….semantics like you say…..
"Austin made the play, Austin saved the day" Brad Sham
by Boyzfan94 on Nov 2, 2009 8:59 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
yeah just saw that...
my bust. I misread you 1st post there. :-/
The 2009 Dallas Cowboys: Talk to me in December.
The NFC East has won 11 Super Bowls; oddly none of those have come courtesy of the Eagles.
by gee-roj on Nov 2, 2009 9:02 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
BTW Haley was a GREAT Cowboy...
His entire career may not have been played here but for about 4 years there he was one of the best pass rushers in team history, and was very instrumental in winning Super Bowls 27 & 28 (who could forget him bull dozing Jim Kelly forcing a fumble that resulted in their 2nd TD in Super Bowl 27).
The 2009 Dallas Cowboys: Talk to me in December.
The NFC East has won 11 Super Bowls; oddly none of those have come courtesy of the Eagles.
by gee-roj on Nov 2, 2009 8:59 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He was really good, but he wasnt here long enough for Jerry to stop using his number
"Austin made the play, Austin saved the day" Brad Sham
by Boyzfan94 on Nov 2, 2009 9:03 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
oh I agree with that...
I’m just gald that the next person to don that number is D-Ware and not Carp.
The 2009 Dallas Cowboys: Talk to me in December.
The NFC East has won 11 Super Bowls; oddly none of those have come courtesy of the Eagles.
by gee-roj on Nov 2, 2009 9:07 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Again semantics…
I should have said they justified wearing those numbers.
The 2009 Dallas Cowboys: Talk to me in December.
The NFC East has won 11 Super Bowls; oddly none of those have come courtesy of the Eagles.
by gee-roj on Nov 2, 2009 8:45 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
No it isn’t Blee…
It’s far more important than me doing my job today. It might even be the most important discussion I have all year. ;-)
The 2009 Dallas Cowboys: Talk to me in December.
The NFC East has won 11 Super Bowls; oddly none of those have come courtesy of the Eagles.
by gee-roj on Nov 2, 2009 9:05 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i did think antonio bryant was a prick
for wearing 88, so i sortaaa see your point i guess
by blee on Nov 2, 2009 10:08 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Ummm...
I think Felix Jones delivered the games biggest hit.
by Damnsammit on Nov 2, 2009 9:19 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
that was cool
but sooo dumb! He needs to stay on the ground, and not get hurt again.
by blee on Nov 2, 2009 10:09 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
His problem has been lower body injuries.
He’s not going to get those in the air.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 2, 2009 10:13 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You guys have any thoughts on Julius Jones' performance today?
Oh yeah and just for you Aaron….we knew Garrett would still pass up by a bunch so we unleashed Nick Reed on Romo. ;-)
Broncos 12 Bengals 7: The story of the 2009 Seattle Seahawks.
by SSreporters on Nov 2, 2009 9:42 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Well, its easy to be critical ...
of an opponent that your team just beat decisively.
But if you really want an outsiders view of the Hawks …
they sorta remind me a little of the K.C. Chiefs a few years back. In consecutive years the Chiefs lost key players on the o-line. Now in Seattle, its been a slower degression, but Hutch and Jones were the cornerstones of a Seahawk running game that dominated for a some years there in the NFC West. It will be hard to replace them.
On Julius …
its always gonna be rough to get those 100 yard rushing games when your best offensive lineman is out. I think most Cowboys fans are happy with what is here now at RB.
by spadesking131313 on Nov 2, 2009 10:24 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I instantly thought of KC's dismantling of their offensive line
when I look at this Seattle team
by AustonianAggie on Nov 2, 2009 2:01 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Didn't we hear all offseason about how Romo and Roy were
working hard together to get their timing down? So far it looks like they didn’t put in any work at all. It looks like Roy just joined the team the Saturday before the Tampa game.
by houseofprime on Nov 2, 2009 10:20 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
I don't really buy it anymore...
Romo is doing better because he can hit the open receiver. He obviously has trust in Miles, throwing it often before he’s open. Ok, so he can’t do that with Roy (yet?). So does Roy just never get open?? He got 1300+ yards in one season because Kitna would throw it to him 12 times a game when he wasn’t open?
For people who have watched tape of games…is Roy getting open?
by blee on Nov 2, 2009 10:22 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Romo missed
on Witten as well as Williams. When the ball is 6 feet over the receiver’s head or a yard behind him or on the ground before it gets to him, how is it not the QB’s fault?
Romo was hitting on some passes, but he was missing on some too. He still has work to do. The whole team does. I am not sure we are ready for Philly.
Keep doing what you been doing, keep getting what you been getting.
by OskieOskie on Nov 2, 2009 11:05 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Philly isn't playing any better than us right now
Sure they blew out the GMen, but they’re are playing like crap right now, I think the Lions and Rams might even have a shot at them they way they are playing.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 1:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
When the WR is running his route
too deep or shallow. And since Romo isn’t overthrowing and underthrowing all the other WRs, I have to wonder if RW isn’t on the wrong page.
RW also quit on at least one play, as did Bennett.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 2, 2009 1:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Did Witten
“quit” when Romo overthrew him?
Romo hit some good ones, but missed on a few. He needs to tighten it up.
Keep doing what you been doing, keep getting what you been getting.
by OskieOskie on Nov 2, 2009 2:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Romo didn't have a great passing day,
but he also didn’t have any INTs. He was a little off on a few passes, but didn’t force anything. IMO thats the difference in his game now.
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
by DIRE WOLF on Nov 2, 2009 2:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
his qb rating was over 100
I’d say thats pretty good
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 8:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think I specifically mentioned Bennett, not Witten
I didn’t claim that Romo threw perfectly on every play. But by the same token, not every incomplete is the QB’s problem. I am wondering why the WRs and TEs at times are turning one way and the ball is going the other. Happened several times yesterday. That’s not about tightening up anything, that’s about both players expecting different things on a given play. Romo admitted that the high ball was his bad but also said that they need to look at film to see why the others happened. That is team mate speak for “we were not in sync”.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 2, 2009 3:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He needs to
get with his receivers and they all need to tighten it up then.
True, not every incomplete pass is the QB’s fault. My point is that it is not always the receiver’s fault.
Keep doing what you been doing, keep getting what you been getting.
by OskieOskie on Nov 2, 2009 6:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
yeah Romo isn't perfect, go figure
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 8:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, he's getting open
and Romo missed him yesterday.
It happens when a guy misses time with an injury. Think back to week one, how Romo missed a wide open Austin on a go route. Austin had missed the second half of preseason with a quad injury.
They still didn’t have it in the Denver game — the Bailey pick.
They’ve got it now.
Conversely, Roy was Romo’s one consistent /WR target in Tampa and vs. Carolina.
He’s been out of it since he got hurt in Denver. But they can get it back. It’s not like Williams can’t get open.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 2, 2009 11:24 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I also have noticed that Romo's passes seem more accurate
to the WRs that have been here more than a year, like Hurd, Austin and Crayton. Crayton seems to be his security blanket when he scrambles.
I’m starting to think a “peaking” Dallas passing offense will have 2 100 yard receivers in a game
by AustonianAggie on Nov 2, 2009 2:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I mean to say, that as the year goes on, Roy will have games that put him near 100 yards
by AustonianAggie on Nov 2, 2009 2:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not sure that
Roy was Romo’s one consistent WR target in the Tampa Bay game.
*Roy was targeted 7 times in that game and only caught 3 (43%) for 86 yards
*Crayton was targeted 6 times and caught 4 (67%) for 135 yards
I’d say that Crayton was Romo’s one consistent WR target in that game, not Roy.
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 3, 2009 12:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Although Roy was targeted more, he wasn't as consistent in receptions (or as productive in yards)
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 3, 2009 12:53 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Three things to consider ...
First, had Dallas waited to fill the #1 WR spot, realistically they may have:
drafted Percey Harvin (with the 1st round pick they sent to Detroit)
& traded for Dwayne Bowe (near the NFL trade deadline .. reports say the Chiefs were asking for a 1 and a 3, ironically a similar deal that got us Roy)
Put those two lined up with Wit and Austin!! … Roy vs Bowe might be a wash, although Bowe size is a tremendous assett. I think we might have missed an opportunity to add that elusive and quick WR (in Harvin) that would compliment the offense and help on STs.
The second point is Roy Williams is Roy Williams. There is a guy in Buffalo trying to make him the replacement to T.O., but he is not the second coming of Owens. To me, I look at Roy and say he does a few things really well, and as long as the Cowboys understand that, he will move the chains a bunch and catch some big TDs this year. I’d expect Roy to have big days aginst “cover 2” type teams with smallish CBs. Teams like the Bucs. He is going to contribute .. and I think he is gonna make a few here eat their words!
My last point is … remember Roy was our #1 and having a good year until his QB laid him out there and he got injured.
by spadesking131313 on Nov 2, 2009 10:41 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
if Dallas
kept the #20 pick, chances are Jerry would have traded out of that spot, cause he always trades!
by what_the_crap on Nov 2, 2009 10:48 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
no, he wasn't having a good year
and all Cowboys fans should be happy Romo laid him out on that pass, or the great games Austin would have had would have never happened.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 10:48 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I noticed
that after Romo overthrew Roy, causing him to get clanged in the ribcage, Roy came back in and caught one over the middle, banged ribs and all.
Romo isn’t doing anyone any favors when his carelessness gets a teammate hurt.
Keep doing what you been doing, keep getting what you been getting.
by OskieOskie on Nov 2, 2009 2:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Eesh
Are you going after his spirals next??
These are humans playing the game. They are not and will not be perfect. It’s not carelessness when a throw is errant. Where does that even come from? That’s like blaming a player for accidentally running into a team mate. Happens every game, multiple times, and sometimes players get hurt. But it’s an accident, not carelessness.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 2, 2009 3:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
he will always find fault with Romo...doesn't like him
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 8:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
he did Austin a huge favor
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 8:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Again,
Harvin failed a drug test. Dallas doesn’t draft those guys anymore.
The guy they had with a 1st round grade was Maclin.
Philly traded up to 19 to get him. If Dallas was there, can you guarantee Philly would not have leapfrogged them to get him? The teams at 17 and 18 traded out too.
Moving up from 20 to 15 or so to get your guy is a 1st and a 3rd.
You seen Dwayne Bowe? He’s got good numbers but he drops as many passes as T.O. He needs a lot of balls to get his stats.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 2, 2009 11:27 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I remember them saying that they took Harvin off their board.
I can see for miles and miles and miles and miles and miles...
http://twitter.com/BloggingTheBoys
by Aaron Novinger on Nov 2, 2009 2:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
yes, agree with you
but Roy getting hurt could be one of those happy accidents cause it pushed Austin into the roster and he was ready.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 2, 2009 11:29 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It's sad that's what it takes
Like having to wait for injuries to use Choice last year. Austin has been developing for 4 yrs and the coaches should be able to see something in practice. It is ridiculous the way the Cowboys waste resources.
by StillHateTheGiants on Nov 2, 2009 3:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Austin didn't exactly light it up in preseason
I was actively dissappointed in him. At the end of last year I thought he’d erupt. But preseason he was a no show.
by AustonianAggie on Nov 2, 2009 6:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't agree
We heard the plays being called weren’t plays for him or his strengths. Besides, the coaches see these guys every day in practice. Is he only performing like this in games? That’s a little hard for me to believe.
by StillHateTheGiants on Nov 2, 2009 9:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Austin was hurt in the preseason
and you do remember that they played him in Denver and he hung his QB out to dry on a key red zone pick.
I didn’t exactly see a lot of fans on this board arguing that he was ready before the K.C. game.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 3, 2009 10:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
When Romo learns
to throw the slant and fade and Rw does not catch those passes then it is RW’s fault.
When Romo leads RW with good passes and RW drops those passes it is RW’s fault.
Until then Romo leaves RW out to dry
by oneforthethumb on Nov 2, 2009 6:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I have noticed that Romo is throwing the slant more often and with better
accuracy in the last couple of games.
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 2, 2009 9:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, that's yesterday's news
Over the past three games Romo has thrown a lot of slants and thrown almost all of them on the money. The throw on the goal line was a laser to RW.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 3, 2009 6:46 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
really
It boggles my mind that Romo throws a few off target slants and fans all of sudden start thinking he can’t throw it.
Romo could always throw the slant, like Wade said yesterday, he simply doesn’t throw too many bad balls.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 3, 2009 7:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
smiles austin
Did it look like SEA was double covering him? Still…he was so close to getting two TD’s. If only he didn’t slip. He probably just got too excited there.
by blee on Nov 2, 2009 10:27 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
So is the Roy Williams that I saw kill the Cowboys in the 06 finale
dead and gone? I would really like that version of him to make another appearance.
by houseofprime on Nov 2, 2009 10:27 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
The next 2 games
will tell us what this team is about. Road games @ Philly, and @ GB …. 2 tough games. If they can win both, that would be HUGE. I’m hoping they come out 1-1.
by what_the_crap on Nov 2, 2009 10:29 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Green Bay doesn't look as tough as I thought it be.
There really good at the skill positions but their O-line is one of the worst in the league. It should be a party in the backfield for Ware and company.
by houseofprime on Nov 2, 2009 10:33 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
they're
missing Clifton big time.
by what_the_crap on Nov 2, 2009 10:47 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
turnovers will always be the key with this team
We have a zero or plus turnover ratio, we’ll beat anyone.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 10:36 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
As would any team in the NFL. Any team that has no turnovers will win 80% of the time
by StillHateTheGiants on Nov 2, 2009 3:01 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I don't think that's the whole formula for
St Louis, Oakland or KC. Just saying….
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 2, 2009 3:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
but we'd win 99% of the time
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 8:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Are the Eagles that good or have the NYG become that bad?
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
by DIRE WOLF on Nov 2, 2009 11:06 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Don't now about the Eagles, but the Giants have looked like crap lately
Lifetime Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
by Seanrude on Nov 2, 2009 11:11 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think I would take a split in the next two games
and be somewhat happy, but winning both would be great. If Dallas plays there A game they win both of them.
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
by DIRE WOLF on Nov 2, 2009 11:29 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Giants have no safeties
Dallas used to have bad play at safety, remember how much that sucked? NYG are getting a mouthful of it
by AustonianAggie on Nov 2, 2009 2:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
While losing both would be a tragedy…
A spit of the next two games would definitely be cake. Winning both would be frosting. :-)
The 2009 Dallas Cowboys: Talk to me in December.
The NFC East has won 11 Super Bowls; oddly none of those have come courtesy of the Eagles.
by gee-roj on Nov 2, 2009 11:54 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Don't forget the playoffs and potential for a rubber game rematch
With the strength of the division it’s possible to see either the Giants or Eagles for a game 3 if we make the playoffs…..
Then it’s like a new season… Just ask the Giants of last year vs Philly for a chance to go deeper in the playoffs
by oldtimer on Nov 2, 2009 12:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
For the moment....
The Saints and the Vikes are the class of the NFC and possibly the NFL.
BUT, if the "Boys continue to play this well and get better and do it consistently against quality teams…then we may well have something special in the works. Until we start putting up 30+ against good, quality, playoff bound teams….. and shut them down on defense, we are nothing more than a work in progress. Yes it’s great to get the wins but we have to show or prove that WE are a quality team as well. It only gets hard from here on out.
The Vikes, are riding a wave of high emotions with Favre, especially after two good games against his former clan the Packers. Favre would love nothing more than to win a Super Bowl to show his old mates in GB that yeah they made a mistake and that he can still play at a high level. That’s a dangerous team with quality receivers and probably the BEST RB in the league in Peterson. If I had to pick now, I would say the Vikes and the Saints in the NFC championship game and that would be a helluva game.
Right now the Cowboys need to continue to improve and play well and win games against the better teams before we put in the same class as the Vikes and the Saints. Consistency will be the key.
by Cowboy88 on Nov 2, 2009 11:59 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
I still say Favre will start to fade as teh season progresses
At this point last year,there was some talk about him leading the Jets to the Super Bowl
Lifetime Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
by Seanrude on Nov 2, 2009 12:01 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I predicted the same thing before the season started
I think the road to the SB goes through New Orleans.
by staubachfan on Nov 2, 2009 12:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe but you can't deny that he's playing at a very high level .....
as a Hall Of Fame QB should be. If you watch his throwing mechanics, the man is throwing missiles with tight spirals to his receivers and each are deadly accurate. His being on the Jets was sort of a fluke in that, compared to how he’s playing now, he shoulder was clearly injured not allowing him to play as he is now.
Favre is proving to ALL of us that he still has some of that fire left and he’s trying to quench it with a Super Bowl.
by Cowboy88 on Nov 2, 2009 12:38 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Let's see him keep it up. He has played well, but he has started the last few seasons well, before fading down the stretch
Lifetime Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
by Seanrude on Nov 2, 2009 12:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
His body is hurting now...
Troy said he is taking ice baths after games now.Think what his old body will feel like in Dec.
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
by DIRE WOLF on Nov 2, 2009 12:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
icy
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 2, 2009 12:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
at 40 it must be tough to take those hits
I agree with Seanrude that at the end of the year, he’ll be hurting.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 2, 2009 1:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I still think the class of the NFL resides in the AFC…
I think the Vikings or Saints would both lose to the Steelers, Colts, or Patriots in the Super Bowl. The Saints are rolling now but their defense as highly praised as it has been is giving up more than 21 points a game and that will, at some point, catch up with them.
The Vikings are stout on D and seem to be better prepared for the long haul but this all hinges on Favre’s ability to continue playing at this level.
The 2009 Dallas Cowboys: Talk to me in December.
The NFC East has won 11 Super Bowls; oddly none of those have come courtesy of the Eagles.
by gee-roj on Nov 2, 2009 1:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
SF played the Colts close Sunday...
We have a lot of football left to watch and the Eagles, Cowboys, Saints or Vikings are as good as any team in the AFC imo. The team that gets hot in Dec. and goes into the playoffs on a roll out of the NFC has a good of chance of winning it all.
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
by DIRE WOLF on Nov 2, 2009 1:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Like what I'm seeing, but...
something Deion Sanders said on the NFL network had me thinking (and I don’t like listening to that arrogant Cowboys hater these days). He said that the boys are looking good but three things concern him.
1) the running game average has fallen to 3.9 a carry
2) the defense, although playing better, is ranked 22nd
3) T. Romo will be playing in December in a few weeks
Does make me stop and think, if nothing else.
by Rembrthe90s on Nov 2, 2009 2:46 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
the run game fell to 3.9 for one game
on the year the run average is still 5.4 and 2nd in the league behind the Titans 5.5
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 2, 2009 3:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I did some checking
For Mr Deion’s information, Romo can’t play the December games right now. League rules say he can only play the games taht are in the present….
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 2, 2009 3:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Reminds me of that Countin Crows song ...
“Its been a long December
But theres REASON TO BELIEVE THAT THIS YEAR WILL BE BETTER THAN THE LAST”
Lets all be real here, the Cowboys are already setting “trends” that breaks them apart from recent “December blues”.
First off, they are finishing games!! Putting teams away in the 3rd and 4th quarters. ….. When was the last time Dalals even though about pulling Romo in a game?
Secondly, the Boys secondary does not host a player named “Williams” nor “Henry”. .. I’d even say that opponents that are forced to pass early, are now playing to the Cowboys’ strengths on defense. Pass rush and good coverage!! .. And their good coverage is as a unit, not nessessarily as bad as the weakest link, as it has been. In this day’s NFL, defenses are going to let up yardage passing. But Dallas has vastly improved in with the additions of Sensibough and the two second year guys.
Lastly, what once ailed them … now is becoming a nightmare for other teams. In all seriousness, Joe DeCamillis has earned consideration for coach of the year in the NFL. Look at what the Cowboys were and what they have been able to accomplish in a short amount of time!
But again, the players should not be satisfied with where they are at. This team should turn down EVERY pat on the back and have tunnell vision on WINNING IN THE PLAYOFFS!!!
Lets hope the lesson of the past “December blues” is that when you let down as a team, there are plenty of teams stepping forward to kick you when you are down!!! I remember 44-6!!
by spadesking131313 on Nov 2, 2009 3:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Or Hags song 'Hope We Make it Through December'
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
by DIRE WOLF on Nov 2, 2009 3:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Or was that "If we can make through December"
unbeaten and on a roll that would be something new for this team.
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
by DIRE WOLF on Nov 2, 2009 4:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
If we make it through December
we’ll be fine.
Keep doing what you been doing, keep getting what you been getting.
by OskieOskie on Nov 2, 2009 6:11 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
1) is wishy-washy
2) Did anyone doubt for one second that Seattle would get a garbage time TD?
Can Dallas count on it’s D to close out a tough, close game? This is a legit concern. Dallas may not have to in any game this year until the playoffs
by AustonianAggie on Nov 2, 2009 6:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
But to take the other view
that touchdown was the result of an offensive turnover.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 3, 2009 6:47 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
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