Cowboys Tuesday Tape Review -- The Boxers Are Starting to Punch a Bit
by Rafael Vela on Nov 3, 2009 10:31 AM CST
122 comments
Notes from the Seattle Win:
They Study This Stuff
Last month the Broncos hit the Cowboys with the best running play I've seen all year. Denver ran a weakside trap where they double-teamed the weakside DE with a guard and tackle and brought their H-back, who started the play on an overload next to the tight end, across the backfield to kick out Demarcus Ware. When blocked properly, it created a wide diagonal lane between the DE and OLB for Knowshon Moreno. It gained between eight and fourteen yards the four times Josh McDaniels called it.
The play worked in part because Ware was going upfield at the quarterback. The underneath drag by the tight end is a common pattern and Ware probably figured it Kyle Orton was setting him up for a bootleg.
The NFL is a copycat league. Sunday, Seattle tried it. This time, Ware closed down on the line and stuffed Julius Jones for no gain. That said, I would be very surprised if Jason Garrett, a copycat himself, doesn't try calling this play against the Packers, the next 3-4 team on Dallas' schedule. Dallas has the ideal tight end depth to make it work and big play backs.
The Felix Package Is Starting to Deliver
Slowly, but surely, Garrett is unwrapping that big box of Felix Jones toys the team asked the press to keep under wraps back at training camp. Against Atlanta, he used the power I pitch to Jones, where Marion Barber lined up as a fullback in a seeming pro-set, with Tashard Choice as the halfback. Jones started in the slot, then motioned to the I-back position and took a Tony Romo pitch. Later, Garrett called a rocket pitch to Jones in a 3rd and 2. This time, Barber was the fullback in a traditional I with Jones as the I-back. Romo faked a dive to Barber and pitched to Jones, who outraced the defense end to the sideline.
The inside action was designed to draw the DE and OLB inside and make the pitch a simple matter of speed for Jones, who gets no pulling linemen to lead interference.
Sunday, we saw one of the Jones pass plays unwrapped. At the Seattle 38, Dallas deployed in a two tight end, one back set, with Patrick Crayton lined up as the split end left and Miles Austin right, flanking Martellus Bennett and Jason Witten, who were parked outside RT Marc Colombo. Jones was the lone back behind Tony Romo.
Before the snap, Witten flexed to the flanker position wide right, with Austin moving to the right slot between him and Bennett. The shifting caused confusion in Seattle's secondary. Corner Marcus Truffant took Witten and the strong safety came up to cover Austin. The Seahawk linebackers all pointed to their left, towards, Austin and Witten, thinking they were going to run a combination pattern. At the snap, they the LBs all slid to the strong side.
Romo dropped to pass and Bennett stayed in to block, giving the impression that Dallas was going to run a three man deep pattern combo with maximum protection. Witten and Austin both ran hard up field, as did Crayton against Ken Lucas on Dallas' left side.
The primary, however, was always Jones, who released late and cut to the left sideline. He caught Romo's short pass in stride with only a linebacker in pursuit. Felix was yards clear and ran 20 yards upfield before Lucas peeled off of Crayton to challenge him. Jones ran over Lucas and his late stiff arm caused the corners helmet to hit the turf, knocking Lucas from the game.
The play was simple to execute and deadly in effect; clear out a side, put Felix in isolation against a linebacker in a flat and let his speed do the rest. I wonder what present Jason and Felix will unwrap this week?
Safety in a Zone
Last Thanksgiving Seattle rookie tight end John Carlson burned strong safety Keith Davis. The line: six catches for 105 yards. Sunday, Carlson, an emerging star, had modest production: three catches 36 yards. The difference was strong safety Gerald Sensabaugh, who shows us on a weekly basis what a coverage safety means to a secondary. Sensabaugh can find a ball and close on like a receiver. Were he not encumbered by a heavy wrap on his broken thumb, he would have several picks. He's tracked three passes into his hands in the last two games but dropped them all.
He'll face another big challenge this week in Eagles TE Brent Celek, who likes to get upfield. Dallas has bracketed Tony Gonzalez and Carlson the last two weeks, leaving the corners in man. With DeSean Jackson on the menu this week, Sensabaugh will have to cover a lot more alone. He seems to be up to the coverage part of the equation. The catching part?
Throwing Haymakers
The Cowboys offensive line has been a counterpunching group thus far this year, with lead draws and counters as their staple runs. Against the Seahawks they lined up and barreled straight ahead a lot more than normal, with third TE John Phillips as the lead blocker most of the time. Phillips is creating a niche or himself as a blocking F-back, freeing Jason Witten and Martellus Bennett to run patterns upfield.
Dallas ran several isolations in the fourth quarter, with Marion Barber and Felix Jones breaking a few for ten yard gains. Most of these calls were for Jones, who was a missed ankle tackle way from an explosive run on two of these plays. Watch this development going forward.
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1st...
and 10 is the key down.
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 3, 2009 10:36 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Whenever…
….they have positive, penalty free running yardage on first down (4 or more yards) Garrett’s play calling tends to be less evident on 2nd down (mixing in unpredictable balance of run and pass). However, if the run on 1st is for 3 yards or less he tends to go to the pass nearly every time on 2nd down. I’m hoping that as the season progresses he will tend to run more on 2 &7; even if it’s only a 2 yard gain it still sets up a 3rd and 5 which is very manageable.
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 3, 2009 10:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i actually think garret called a number of run plays on second and long
in fact, the announcers made a comment about this that both garrett and knapp were doing it
"I just want to comment on how it’s become like a common thing in the [MLB] for guys to fall in love with [the Rangers’s] sloppy seconds." (thanks cstorm)
by ab03 on Nov 3, 2009 11:45 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
that's an old Norv Turner trait
and something you can do when the lead draw is your base run play.
Run on 2nd and 10, with the expectation of getting at least four, putting yourself into 3rd and 6 or shorter.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 3, 2009 12:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Doesn't Romo have
…a ridiculous 3rd down completion percentage?
Everything's looking up, Milhouse!
by accidental innuendo on Nov 3, 2009 1:12 PM CST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Depends on what you mean by ridiculous
1st: 70.4, 2nd: 53.6, 3rd: 54.0, Total: 60.0
by One.Cool.Customer on Nov 3, 2009 2:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
But keep in mind that 87.8% of all stats
are made up on the spot…
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 3, 2009 2:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
LOL
I like stats, some people don’t.
For those who don’t, I always remind them that the final score is a stat, and the win/loss record is a stat.
Stats do matter.
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 3, 2009 2:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I like them as well
But I always try to remember that they are only a representation of reality, not reality itself, meaning you will always fall short to some degree of getting qualitiative answers through qualitative means. But they are a great place to start.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 3, 2009 3:02 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I thought it was higher
My bad
Everything's looking up, Milhouse!
by accidental innuendo on Nov 3, 2009 6:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Finally, this team seems to be getting it
They appear to be practicing hard, brooking commented that he had trouble finding an empty film room……….. on the day off. It showed against seattle. Sure, they suck, but it wasn’t about seattle, it was a well prepared team, no doing stupid &%#@ to almost lose a game. They keep playing like this and the nfc east can definitely be one…………. and man i hate philly, i think even more than the redskins now
by just4fun on Nov 3, 2009 11:46 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
High quality stuff, as always, Raf
I love how Garrett is maximizing Felix’s speed and the versatility his TEs give him. I’ve always liked Garrett, but maybe his stock will start rising again with all the naysayers…
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 3, 2009 12:14 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
well, he finally has a Felix to play with
It has to suck developing all these sets and plays for Felix and then watching him get injured every other game.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 3, 2009 12:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I like the fact that we didnt start 5-0 lets say
it would’ve made looking everything honky-dory, and small details (problems) would have been swept under the rug. Now the team is steadily improving, and most important we are not showing all of our hands. As the season progresses, we will have more and more plays for Felix, I’d suspect more for Bennett and just wait till Roy and Romo get on the same page will have such an dynamic offence that nobody would call predictable
by dcfanz on Nov 3, 2009 12:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah that's key
he really is a completely different sort of cat.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 3, 2009 1:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Raf, great write-up!
How about a couple of “when Dallas has the ball” and “when Philly has the ball” breakdowns this week. I love those.
by RomoHomo on Nov 3, 2009 12:16 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Slightly OT, but...
Does anyone know when they’re showing the replay of this game on the NFL network? I looked on NFL Network’s site and they don’t list the specific games, they just have “NFL Replay” and a generic description…
I live on the East Coast and they showed the Giants instead. Didn’t even get to see a highlight package for most of that day either.
Stupid Brett Favre. ;)
by Pete222 on Nov 3, 2009 12:25 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
they don't show every game on NFL Replay
NFL Network usually selects the 4 best games, not too sure ours was one of them since we beat Seattle pretty convincingly.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 3, 2009 12:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You're not lying
I had to sit through almost 2 hours of the Favre love festival before I eventually saw the Cowboy highlights..Thank god GB and Minny are done playing each other!
by Benthere on Nov 3, 2009 12:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
sunday afternoon FOX, BSPN, BSPN2 and NFLN
had Favre palooza at the same time for good 5-8 min. Just infuriating.
by dcfanz on Nov 3, 2009 12:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah the real story is that GB is not good enough to compete with the saints and vikes,
the packers could not afford to go 0-2 against the vikes and it was not really that close. We should be thankful that they have finished playing against each other this early in the season. The talk will be lower now that the only way they could play each other is in the playoffs.
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
by cowboy78 on Nov 3, 2009 12:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The Saints and Vikings are rolling like the
Cowboys back in ’07. But it is hard to stay on that roll as we know.
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
by DIRE WOLF on Nov 3, 2009 1:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
at some point they'll cool off
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 3, 2009 2:45 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I hope so,Dallas sure did in '07
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
by DIRE WOLF on Nov 3, 2009 4:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly...
was having lunch in a diner yesterday around 1:00, and literally every time I looked up it was footage from the GB/Min game. I saw the Dallas/Sea game coming up in the queue, but I took a bite of my sandwich and by the time I looked back up it was over. ;-)
by Pete222 on Nov 3, 2009 1:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
We should get plenty of coverage this week, though.
There was some overkill with Favre, but that was a pretty big story. Dallas vs. Seattle, not so much. I’m surprised that PHI/NYG didn’t get more play, though.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 3, 2009 2:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree
It’ll be Dallas-Philly all this week.
Yeah, the Favre thing demonstrates just how entertainment-focused (as opposed to sports-focused) these outlets have become. And I think it’s a mistake. I have only a passing interest (pun intended) in Favre vs the Packers. It was so ridiculously covered that they are causing a lot of fans to skip the broadcast.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 3, 2009 3:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That's so true.
I was interested in Minnesota vs. Green Bay, but didn’t want to watch because of the Favre coverage. And because I was afraid the Packers might win, and I really hate them.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 3, 2009 3:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I was actually watching movies before the game.
I just couldn’t bring myself to watch the NFLN Brett lovefest, (although I DID like Micheal picking the Seahawks…to lose) and I steadfastly continue my boycott of the World Wide Loser. My son turned on BSPN for a minute, and I caught Holier-than-Thou Tom Jackson, I-know-more-than-God-himself Chris Carter, I’ll-butt-in-whenever-I-feel-like-it Keyshawn Johnson, I-wish-I-could-fit-in-SOMEWHERE Mike Ditka, and Everybody’s-Dallas-Cowboy-Hater Fatboy Berman, nearly lost my breakfast, and made him change the channel. We have Fox Sports West over here in ABQ, but that results in a lot of Cardinals coverage. Hence, movie channels.
Last night I lay in bed looking up at the stars in the sky and I thought to myself, "where the heck is the ceiling?"
by White Wolf on Nov 3, 2009 8:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Really?
I’ve been watching the pre-game shows on BSPN lately, and Tom Jackson, Carter, and Ditka aren’t that bad. Johnson is annoying, as usual, and Berman doesn’t really give any input.
I wish I still had NFLN. I moved houses recently and haven’t gotten it set up. So I have to settle for BSPN. Maybe that’s why Jackson, Carter, and Ditka aren’t that bad to me anymore… :/ lol.
by Rickyy. on Nov 4, 2009 12:56 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That's a good analysis
They just need to put Berman out to pasture. The guy can’t even finish a complete sentence when he gives his analysis. And Jackson is stuck in 1950s football strategy.
I may switch over to NFLN. I wish Rich Eisen did the morning show. He’s my favorite in studio host. Love JJ on Fox, but can’t stand Bradshaw. And CBS, man, where do I begin?
by selke99 on Nov 5, 2009 10:01 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think my only option at this point...
is to buy the “Follow Your Team” individual game from iTunes for $1.99. Doesn’t sound like it’ll be replayed on TV anywhere…
by Pete222 on Nov 3, 2009 2:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Whoa, they have that?
$1.99 isn’t too bad. Is it only available on iTunes?
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 3, 2009 2:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Less responsible citizens might figure out a way to share...
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 3, 2009 2:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
2 dollars
might be worth the time and effort spent to download a gi-normous video file, though… :)
by Pete222 on Nov 3, 2009 2:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, that's pretty awesome, actually.
I don’t mind paying for stuff, and would actually pay as much as $4.99 for this, but I know that some people just refuse.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 3, 2009 2:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
TV schedule's been pretty good so far this year...
so I wouldn’t necessarily buy the whole season, just need it for games like this. Just got DirecTV but I passed on the NFL package only because so many Dallas games are national. Waste of money, IMO.
Now that I have the NFL Network, I also get those couple of extra games that I missed out the last few seasons…
by Pete222 on Nov 3, 2009 2:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
not a waste of money
each and every Cowboys game should be cherished as there are only 16 all season.
NFL Sunday Ticket is the best thing I spend my money on all year long, couldn’t live without it.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 3, 2009 3:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
What I love the most
about the package is the 30 min. replays. On Monday and Tuesday they replay every game commercial free, and it takes a little under half an hour. It’s a godsend if you bet or play fantasy football because you pick up little things the blowhard analysts (who probably don’t watch most of the games) never analyze. It’s kinda pricey but is the definite highlight of the week for me!
by selke99 on Nov 5, 2009 10:05 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
This.
I get the Sunday Ticket every year, because living in SoCal you can never count on getting the games you want. On some years it’s worked out to where only like 5 games weren’t national broadcasts, but I don’t care. It’s worth it.
by DannyWhite on Nov 5, 2009 4:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
If they're bracketing the TEs, is it really Sensabaugh, or just the scheme?
Wasn’t Sensabaugh the “help” that Wade was referencing on the TD that Orlando Scandrick allowed? It feels like we’ve seen that a couple times this season.
I’m by no means attempting to discredit him, I’m just curious if Dallas tried bracketing the tight ends last year and still got burnt, or if that is new this year. If they didn’t do it last year, I’m not positive that the difference is really the player and not the scheme.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 3, 2009 12:30 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
they bracketed the TEs the last two weeks
because they’re named Tony Gonzalez and John Carlson. They’re probably the first option (Gonzalez) and 2nd option (Carlson) in their team’s passing games.
They didn’t bracket last year because they couldn’t. When did they have healthy corners? Newman had the hernia, Henry was always in and out and Pacman ass-clowned himself back into suspension.
When you have good, heathy CBs you can do this. The ’07 Cowboys had trouble getting coverage on TEs period. Remember, when they played Baltimore they had to use Ware as the primary cover man on Todd Heap.
Watch Sensabaugh. The guy is beating TEs to passes their way. If he had better hands, he would probably have four or five picks already. He can track a football. That isn’t scheme. Keith Davis couldn’t find balls that landed on his head.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 3, 2009 12:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
well said Raf, agree 100%
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 3, 2009 12:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Don't forget Sensabaugh has a cast on his thumb.
I think he might of got one of the passes with two good hands.
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
by DIRE WOLF on Nov 3, 2009 12:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Right, but it sounds like the scheme is more important than the player.
If you have help on a player, you can take more chances than if you don’t. I’m quite sure that Sensabaugh is better than Keith Davis, who I don’t even think is on an NFL roster this year, but I just question how much better.
I realize that they may not have had the personnel to bracket last year, but that’s not exactly the safety’s fault. I’m saying that I wonder how well Sensabaugh would have done in the same coverage scheme. It just seems that bracketing coverage on a guy is likely more responsible for limiting his production than upgrading the safety. It’s not exactly comparing apples to apples.
According to Football Outsiders, we’re 24th in the league at defending TEs, giving up about 50 yards/game. Last year we were 25th, giving up 40 yards/game. I realize there’s still a lot of football to be played, but I haven’t been as wowed by Sensabaugh thus far as others. I’ll be more than happy to be proved wrong, though, because I think safety play is one of the things keeping this defense from becoming elite.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 3, 2009 1:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
all I know is that Sensabaugh
is worlds better than both Williams and Davis, not even close as far as their coverage ability is concerned.
You can talk about scheme all you want, but the bottom line is that the players still have to execute and make plays within that scheme and thats on the player ultimately.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 3, 2009 1:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
So double covering a guy proves that a player is better than the guy who single covered him the year before? And if so, why are tight ends having about the same success against us this year than they did last year, while our overall pass defense is worse so far?
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 3, 2009 1:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't know, but
last year Carlson ripped us – 6 catches for 105 yards
this year he only got – 3 for 36 yards, which I like a whole lot better
Something must be working
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 3, 2009 2:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Bracketting isnt necessarily double coverage.
Someone takes him short and someone takes him deep.
KICK ASS every day!!!
by squidlo97 on Nov 4, 2009 10:58 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
If it were down to scheme then they could have kept Davis,right?
by Rafael Vela on Nov 3, 2009 1:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That's my question.
If cost and age were the same, is Sensabaugh truly an upgrade?
Did they try the same schemes – bracketing the TE – when Davis, Watkins, and Roy Williams were here and they still couldn’t execute, or in addition to “upgrading” the players, is the key that they upgraded the scheme?
I realize that Sensabaugh at least appears to be better than what we had last year, but the numbers don’t reflect that, except against this individual player. However, you said that they used a scheme specifically designed to stop that player based on what they saw last year, so I wonder if Sensabaugh is truly a significant coverage upgrade. I don’t question that he is an upgrade in terms of athletic ability, potential, and salary.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 3, 2009 1:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Uh, you are aware that two safeties cover?
and that you’re apparently claiming that Sensabaugh is the only coverage safety? Or that he’s the only guy who covers tight ends?
That’s faulty. Gonzalez had some big catches, one because he’s Tony Gonzalez. He was also covered by Orlando Scandrick on his biggest catches and Scandrick has had a sluggish ’09 to say the least.
Denver got some big catches after Sensabaugh went out and Watkins came in.
That you’re comparing all of ’08 to seven games of ’09, when Pat Watkins started in two of those games?
Can you point to any game this year where a TE has consistently beaten Sensabaugh? I can point to one quarter — the first in Tampa, where Kellen Winslow got him twice. Since then, I think the guy has been rock solid.
If you really think there’s no difference between Keith Davis and Sensabaugh there’s nothing I can say to convince you. So I’m not gonna try.
by Rafael Vela on Nov 3, 2009 1:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Not sure how anyone can dispute that.
This year when the T.V. camera pans over to where the ball is traveling I actually see the SS in the screen shot.
Last year I didn’t.
by Cash_BSR on Nov 3, 2009 1:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That is funny
passes thrown where the safety is supposed to be in the area might have been a milk carton with a pictures of Watkins, davis, and RW1 last year.
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
by cowboy78 on Nov 3, 2009 1:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
LOL
Safety too far out of position to be in picture; good one
by Iowacowboy on Nov 3, 2009 6:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Why are you always so abrasive and combative?
How about as a lead writer and representative of this blog, you consider what I’m saying and if I’m wrong, tell me why? I’m sorry that I don’t just accept and acknowledge all that you write as the end of worthwhile analysis. In the future, I will certainly make sure to never ask you to expand, explain further, or consider anything.
I asked you some simple questions about whether the scheme was as much or more responsible than the player, which actually arose because of the analysis that you provided. I’m not the one that pointed out that they took extra steps to cover Carlson this year compared to last year, you did. As you said, they have set out to do better against star TEs by bracketing them. My question was, did they try that last year? At no point have I said that Sensabaugh was not an upgrade, I’m just asking how much? In fact, I’ve said myself that Sensabaugh was an upgrade in most of my posts, and that it makes sense financially and for the future to have him here over Williams and Davis.
I’m by no means claiming anything about who covers. I can’t use 16 games this year, because they don’t exist. I’m asking you to explain the success of the TE and opposing units’ passing game in general given your analysis that we have upgraded our secondary. Why not simply point out what you said about Scandrick without being insulting about it?
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 3, 2009 2:09 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
dude, lighten up, Raf didn't insult you at all
Why so sensitive?
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 3, 2009 2:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Rubbed me the wrong way.
I don’t mind when a fellow poster is derisive or insults my intelligence, but it chafes me when someone in his position does it. And I’ve seen him do it to other people, too.
If I took it the wrong way, then I will apologize.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 3, 2009 2:54 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Rafael has gets hammered.....
……everytime he writes an article. I’m not saying by you, but someone. It goes with the territory but I can see how that would condition a writer to make strong comments that may come off abrasive. He can speak for himself, I’m just saying.
by Cash_BSR on Nov 3, 2009 2:58 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
What Raf doesn't understand is
everybody on this blog is an expert. Just ask anyone of us “hehe”
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
by DIRE WOLF on Nov 3, 2009 5:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Raf really knows his stuff
I would be abrasive as well if somebody kept questioning my knowledge on a subject I knew cold and Raf knows his Cowboys cold bro.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 3, 2009 4:02 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You aren't a representative of this blog.
And I didn’t question his knowledge in the sense that you are implying. I know he knows his stuff, which is why I sought further insight and discussion. Rather than supply that, he was rude and dismissive. And as knowledgeable as he is, he can still be wrong or not completely right, or not have studied all of the possibilities. Even if he’s not, there’s no need to be rude.
And, no offense, but you backing his style doesn’t exactly make me reconsider my stance. I expect a little more professionalism from this site’s lead writer than I do from you. If he feels I’m not worth his time, he should simply not answer.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 3, 2009 4:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
For what it's worth
BPS – I have seen this type of reaction from Rafael as well and I don’t get it. I do not think you are overreacting. Since he knows his stuff, there is no need to go to the petty, semi-insulting responses to fair points or questions. It’s not like you are trolling and as you say, he can just ignore you if he finds your input silly or trivial (not the case here, though).
by doomsdayreturns on Nov 3, 2009 4:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Can we all just be friends : > )
Raf say you’re sorry.
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
by DIRE WOLF on Nov 3, 2009 4:38 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Don't take it personally.
Maybe Raf doesn’t intend it as abrasive as you’re reading it.
"We'll see." --Bill Parcells
by Uncle Angus on Nov 3, 2009 4:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
If I took it the wrong way, then I will apologize.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 3, 2009 11:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It's kind of difficult at times
trying to determine if someone is being sarcastic, angry, funny, or whatever. A few days ago, I attempted to add a little humor in a post, and got blasted by some clueless soul who thought I was being harsh instead of humorous. Even after I explained my intentions he staunchly held to his wrongfully perceived belief that I was ruthless.
As a fellow-blogger, I enjoy Raf’s insights and Baked Potato Soup’s insights (and for that matter I enjoy the great majority of everyone’s contributions.)
All is well boys, let’s carry on.
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 3, 2009 4:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Was it me Bishop?
Sorry man. I was probably drinking…
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 3, 2009 6:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
LOL - nope
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 3, 2009 9:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He's a great writer
And clearly extremely knowledgeable, but he doesn’t have the same level of expertise when it comes to interacting with us, as Dave or Aaron.
But in his defense, I’ve seen harsher responses to other bloggers, myself included. No one is perfect, right?
You can't stop Patrick Crayton, you can only hope to contain him.
by APerfectStar on Nov 3, 2009 9:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Says the guy who calls himself
APerfectStar…. Hmmm….
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 4, 2009 7:02 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Good point
I like to think the moniker describes Dallas’ emblem rather than myself.
You can't stop Patrick Crayton, you can only hope to contain him.
by APerfectStar on Nov 4, 2009 6:11 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
If he knows the Cowboys cold,
why doesn’t he just address the question? Why does it always have to be so insulting?
Ich bin ein Berliner--JFK
by HudBaby on Nov 3, 2009 5:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
he does address the question
and I’ve never read anything of his responses that were insulting, unless you have the sensitivity of a 9 year old school girl.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 4, 2009 9:01 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
you are being sensitive
Raf can come off as abrupt, at the same time he is the lead writer, the expert in the field. If he got short with you and you feel slighted, stop reading his posts. But you won’t stop because he has the best posts on the cowboys on the planet. Raf has gotten short with me before. So?
by alanTdot. on Nov 3, 2009 10:07 PM CST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Then why bother responding?
After all, you didn’t like what I posted, so why prolong the discussion by responding? I assume because you had an opinion that you wanted to express. I didn’t like that he was rude and dismissed me because I asked him about his post. I’ve seen him do it several times before when people are just looking for further insight or clarification. Like you, I then had an opinion to express and chose to do so.
“Raf has gotten short with me before. So?” Well, I don’t know. You brought that to the table, not me. If it didn’t bother you, then that’s awesome. I felt it was rude, the tone surprised me coming from one of the people that runs the site, and it bothered me, so I spoke up about it. I guess we just roll differently.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 3, 2009 11:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I find the longer I blog the less patience I have.
Im sorry, but I agree with Raf. If you cant see the difference there is nothing to be said. Its that obvious. The only time you saw RW or Bullets Davis it was the back of their jersey several steps behind their man in a chase position. They were always targeted on 3rd down.
Oppossing QBs went to the line of scrimmage, found out who RW or Davis were covering and made a mental note, If all else fails that guy will be wide open.
If you dont remember go back a read game threads and count the number of expletives said in the same sentence as their names. It was butt ugly.
KICK ASS every day!!!
by squidlo97 on Nov 4, 2009 12:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
To hell with the numbers watch the damn game
There is know doubt Dallas is better with Sensabaugh.
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
by DIRE WOLF on Nov 3, 2009 1:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
lol Galloway, is that you?
"We'll see." --Bill Parcells
by Uncle Angus on Nov 3, 2009 4:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
dude
you can’t banish all the numbers. The final score is a number.
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 3, 2009 4:58 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You got a point there
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
by DIRE WOLF on Nov 3, 2009 5:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Really hoping
M Hamlin can be that guy.
Everything's looking up, Milhouse!
by accidental innuendo on Nov 3, 2009 1:09 PM CST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
"Keith Davis..." LOL
Family, Friends, Cowboys, Beer & BBQ. Life is good!
by CowboyMan on Nov 3, 2009 1:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think Sensabaugh is huge upgrade at safety.
It seems all the DBs are better with him playing.
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
by DIRE WOLF on Nov 3, 2009 1:04 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
They're giving up 50 more yards passing per game than last year.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 3, 2009 1:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That may be true...
…..but overall numbers aren’t as important as the numbers they are putting up currently. It’s hard to dispute that the defense is better now than it was when it played TB and the NYG.
by Cash_BSR on Nov 3, 2009 2:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Couldn't agree more.
But it does seem like Scandrick and maybe Newman are struggling some this year.
One nice thing is that with the offense and special teams turning the ball over less, our scoring rank is better than our yardage rank (22nd yardage, 10th scoring), unlike last year when it was reversed (8th yardage, 20th scoring).
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 3, 2009 2:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
They struggle but only
at times. Not sure why with T-New except maybe pressing a little out of pride, but Wade (I think) talked about getting Scandrick back on task during the bye. He was playing a little outside his responsibiies at times. I thought he looked very good in the Seahawks game.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 3, 2009 3:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
stats like that can be mis-leading you know?
when a team is winning they often give up more yards passing because when you’re leading the game, the other team passes more often. When you’re losing they run the ball more. The key stats would be yards per attempt, yards per completion and completion percentage to assess how this year’s pass defense compares to last years. Even then there are factors to consider, but I’d recommend starting there and seeing what you find. Passing yards per game conceded is not a good statistic for comparing the effectiveness of pass coverage.
by Kansas Cowboy on Nov 3, 2009 10:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
ok
2008 – (5.9) Passing yards allowed per attempt
2009 – (6.5) Passing yards allowed per attempt
2008 – (9.8) Passing yards allowed per complete
2009 – (10.6) Passing yards allowed per complete
2009 – (60.6) Completion percentage
2009 – (60.7) Completion percentage
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 3, 2009 11:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Who Makes the Killer Mistakes This Week?
Great article as always, Mr. Vela.
Looking back at the last 4 Cowboys/Iggles games, and the one underlying theme is (not so surprisingly) the team that makes the biggest mistakes loses.
In the last 4 contests neither team was able to establish a run. Will that change this week?
The losing team makes a critical or two that greatly effects the outcome (and in the case of the 44-6 game a critical mistake or twelve).
In Dallas’ 38-17 victory at Philly in in 2007, McNabb had a bad, bad game throwing 2 pickles (McNabb, for all of his inaccurate throws, doesn’t throw a lot of picks) that lead to Dallas getting up big.
Philly’s mind-numbingly boring 10-6 victory at Dallas in 07 was based mostly on Romo’s 3 picks and numerous bad throws under constant pressure.
Last year in week2, McNabb and Westbrook’s erroneous hand-off lead to a Dallas victory.
And of course the 44-6 debacle is not worth re-living.
What happens if neither team makes a critical, glaring mistake?
Will either team finally impose their running attack on the other?
Which D will give up the biggest play?
by egtuna on Nov 3, 2009 1:39 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Felix in this game could be a bigger factor than last year's week 2 game
mainly because he is integrated into this offense as a more complete back as opposed to last year. Felix could be a game changer if he has a couple of 30-40 yard runs or small passes; it will be a big factor in this game. I expect dallas to lean on the run and use play action to beat the iggles.
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
by cowboy78 on Nov 3, 2009 1:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I dont know which team will make a crusial mistake, but
it seams to me that the Eagles are always more disciplined than us for whatever reason.I am hoping for two things. First we dont get in to a shoot out or philly scores early and often. we can grind out the game better than them with our running attack and their D is not as good as last year. Second, no TO on offence, we cant afford to cough up the ball and give them extra drives.
by dcfanz on Nov 3, 2009 2:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Philly is a big-play offense
Their offense is a high risk, high reward offense. If they hit the big plays, they can score. If they don’t they don’t have any real offense to speak of. The key will be to establish the run to control the clock and so long as the game is close in the 4th quarter the time of possession advantage will have worn down their defense and we can close out the game.
I also agree that Felix is a big factor, but even bigger is the continued Miles Austin effect. I expect this to be a high scoring game for us. If the Eagles hit their big plays, it will be a close game. If not, it will be over in the 3rd quarter. Yes, I’m optimistic.
by Kansas Cowboy on Nov 3, 2009 10:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
On Celek -
He’ll face another big challenge this week in Eagles TE Brent Celek, who likes to get upfield.
Last year versus Dallas, in both games combined, he only caught 4 balls for 49 yards with 1 TD.
Consider Celek’s stats:
2007 – he averaged 1 catch per game for 11.1 yards
2008 – he averaged 1.6 catches per game for 19.9 yards
2009 – he is averaging 5.2 catches per game for 63.9 yards (what a difference)
In 2007 and 2008, Celek had 1 TD each year. That’s 2 TD’s in 36 games.
This year, he already has 3 TD’s in just 7 games.
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 3, 2009 2:36 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
our whole secondary will have a good test
looking at every Jackson TD, he is 10 yards behind the defender, as somebody noted he could waive for a fair catch if he wishes. Now many of those might be busted coverages, but he is fast awfully fast.
by dcfanz on Nov 3, 2009 2:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It will be
The upside for Dallas is that all three corners and Sensabaugh have really good speed. So then it’s avoiding mental errors.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 3, 2009 3:09 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Great to see Garrett and the offense starting to spread their wings
(we’ve been on a bird thing these last few weeks). As always, thanks for pointing out the nuances, Raf.
"Everybody wants something but nobody wants to pay the price" - Michael Irvin
by 24Hz on Nov 3, 2009 6:37 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
A few notes...
First.. I was really impressed with Phillips. I often felt bad for the guy because he was behind Witten and Marty B and it would have been very easy for him to not put in the work and see himself as a filler. He was great as a lead blocker and he even had a couple catches against the Hawks if I’m not mistaken. Hadn’t heard anyone mention his contributions and they really were noticeable.
First.. I was really impressed with Phillips. I often felt bad for the guy because he was behind Witten and Marty B and it would have been very easy for him to not put in the work and see himself as a filler. He was great as a lead blocker and he even had a couple catches against the Hawks if I’m not mistaken. Hadn’t heard anyone mention his contributions and they really were noticeable.In regards to the Sensabaugh vs. Davis debate…
First.. I was really impressed with Phillips. I often felt bad for the guy because he was behind Witten and Marty B and it would have been very easy for him to not put in the work and see himself as a filler. He was great as a lead blocker and he even had a couple catches against the Hawks if I’m not mistaken. Hadn’t heard anyone mention his contributions and they really were noticeable.In regards to the Sensabaugh vs. Davis debate… Sensabaugh is simply in the game much more than Davis was/Watkins is. He has been a “Ball Hawk” which is something this defense has been lacking. He is certainly decent in coverage and seems to be able to make reads and close on a potential receiver instead of waiting and reacting to completions like we saw from Keith Davis over and over.
Wade Phillips has never won a playoff game as a head coach..he has lost 4 home playoff games.
His longest tenure as head coach was 3 years.
Only once did his record as a HC improve from one year to the next (by 1 game)
Wade Phillips for DC
by SDTrueblue on Nov 3, 2009 7:44 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
umm...seemed to be some formatting issue there...
There’s info in there somewhere
Wade Phillips has never won a playoff game as a head coach..he has lost 4 home playoff games.
His longest tenure as head coach was 3 years.
Only once did his record as a HC improve from one year to the next (by 1 game)
Wade Phillips for DC
by SDTrueblue on Nov 3, 2009 7:45 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Man
that was a lot of firsts…
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Nov 3, 2009 7:54 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
hahahahaha
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 3, 2009 9:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
well..
First..
lol…
Wade Phillips has never won a playoff game as a head coach..he has lost 4 home playoff games.
His longest tenure as head coach was 3 years.
Only once did his record as a HC improve from one year to the next (by 1 game)
Wade Phillips for DC
by SDTrueblue on Nov 4, 2009 5:21 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
How did you feel about Phillips, though?
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 3, 2009 8:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
lol - you guys are nuts - hehehehe
Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character. - John Wooden
by BishopWest on Nov 3, 2009 9:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
In regards to Raf.
First, Raf didn’t insult anyone. He said that if someone felt differently he couldn’t do anything to convince them otherwise so he wasn’t going to try. It’s not his job to convince everyone that his opinion is correct, he has a valued opinion due to the many times he has made great points that delve deeper than personal feelings or surface observations. Because he said he wasn’t going to take the time to try and convince someone otherwise does not mean that he was been rude…it’s a blog, not a debate forum.
Wade Phillips has never won a playoff game as a head coach..he has lost 4 home playoff games.
His longest tenure as head coach was 3 years.
Only once did his record as a HC improve from one year to the next (by 1 game)
Wade Phillips for DC
by SDTrueblue on Nov 3, 2009 7:45 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
If you are not insulted that's fine
But how do you claim to know what is insulting to others?
by staubachfan on Nov 3, 2009 8:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
...
Not having someone pay as much attention to your demand for a rebuttal to your point seems to be unoffensive to me?
But .. my name’s paul..this is between y’all
Wade Phillips has never won a playoff game as a head coach..he has lost 4 home playoff games.
His longest tenure as head coach was 3 years.
Only once did his record as a HC improve from one year to the next (by 1 game)
Wade Phillips for DC
by SDTrueblue on Nov 4, 2009 5:23 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
because it's common sense
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 4, 2009 9:04 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
My point is
If someone is insulted or hurt by someones comment. Nobody can claim they are not. That’s common sense.
by staubachfan on Nov 4, 2009 4:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
nobody is saying they're not insulted
we’re saying it’s unreasonable to be insulted, big difference.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Nov 4, 2009 7:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Your lack of support is more reassuring than any 20 other people agreeing with me.
Obviously since other people felt the same way, it wasn’t unreasonable. I am quite familiar with your idea of common sense, which includes such gems as 2 different numbers being the same. The second you expressed an opinion in opposition to mine on this matter, I knew I was 100% correct.
by Baked Potato Soup on Nov 4, 2009 7:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Love the break down on these big plays and trends to look for
Great job Raf!
That pass play to Felix is outstanding. I was wondering if that was a designed play or a simple dump pass. There are at least 3 plays now that seem to lead to huge gains for Felix when properly executed, you mentioned 2 in this post, and the other is the misdirection run play that lets him cut back into a hole between Flo and Kosier (he had a big gainer in the Midgets game on it.
You can't stop Patrick Crayton, you can only hope to contain him.
by APerfectStar on Nov 3, 2009 9:57 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
That wheel route to Felix coming out of the backfield
is something that I’ve used on Madden with great success in the shotgun, with all 3 WRs running go routes. It clears out the underneath coverage and isolates Felix on a LB, and that really isn’t fair in a video game or in real life. :)
I would suspect that the Cowboys play design is something similar, although without the benefit of the coaches tapes it’s hard to tell for sure (as an aside, I really don’t know why there isn’t a way to make coaching tapes widely available.)
by DannyWhite on Nov 5, 2009 5:00 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
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