The Cavalry Has Rescued Dallas AND Philly Lately. Who Gets Saved This Week?
by Rafael Vela on Nov 5, 2009 11:47 PM CST
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PrintTwo bitter rivals, on parallel season tracks. Both opened with impressive wins. Dallas ripped Tampa Bay's suspect secondary. Philadelphia forced seven Panthers turnovers in a walkover.
Both suffered turnoveritis and lost in week two, Dallas in the waning seconds against the Giants and the Eagles in a home shootout with the Saints, who dropped 48 heavy points on their heads. Both suffered painful second losses, with Dallas ending two yards short of overtime in Denver and the Eagles facing the music after an eye-popping and irritating 13-9 loss to the woeful Raiders.
It was the week five games that turned each teams' season around. Dallas found its resolve -- and Miles Austin -- in its sloppy overtime win at Kansas City. The Cowboys got no style points and were abused in the press for "almost losing" to the then winless Chiefs, but the Cowboys level of play has risen dramatically since they escaped Arrowhead Stadium with the W.
Everybody Cowboys fan knows the rest. Tony Romo has regained his zip, the turnovers and penalties have gone way, way down, the pass rush has emerged and the good times have returned, as Dallas has risen from 3-2 to 5-2.
The story is similar in the Eagles' camp. They've patched their mistakes and have also risen from 3-2 to 5-2. Their repair work suggests there is little to distinguish these two teams heading into Sunday Night.
The Eagles faced major injury issues leaving camp. They lost the Andrews brothers, Stacy and Shawn. The team also saw left guard Todd Herremens hobbled by injury. The team has made do on the fly, getting impressive play from RG Max Jean-Gilles, who looked good in '08 before an ankle injury ended his season early, and from Winston Justice, who has been a steady Eddie at right tackle. This is not the same Justice who flailed in his debut at left tackle two years ago, though I do expect Dallas to match Demarcus Ware against him more than usual. (More on this in a moment.)
On defense, the Eagles had to scramble to replace middle linebacker Stewart Bradley, who went on IR after tearing a knee ligament in preseason. The Eagles base 4-3 relies on big MLBs who can mash with centers. Jeremiah Trotter was the prototype at 260 lbs. Bradley weighs 255 and was steadily improving each season.
Philly auditioned several linebackers off its active roster, and brought Trotter out of retirement after Omar Gaither was also lost to injury. Trotter's head and heart may be as willing as ever, but his legs have gone. The Raiders targeted him with lots of tight end crosses in their upset.
That game also brought out the bad Andy Reid. Reid will sometimes fall in love with the pass and forget his running game. The signing of Stacy Andrews in free agency and the trade for LT Jason Peters, a dominant run blocker, were supposed to inaugurate a new era, where the Eagles would hammer the ball behind their massive line, the NFL's largest (Jay Ratliff called it one of the two toughest he's faced) and give Donovan McNabb more support.
That plan was forgotten in Oakland, where Reid again went pass happy early and never came back. He called only 14 runs on his 60 offensive downs, a 24:76 percent run-to-pass ratio.
Pressure focuses the mind. As Romo, Wade Phillips and the Cowboys knuckled down in games six and seven, so did Reid and his Eagles. He's called almost perfectly balanced games the last two weeks, with the run:pass ratio shifting to 51:49. Consequently, his runners have gained over 300 yards on the ground in Philly's two wins.
On defense, the Eagles quickly admitted to themselves that their MLB was not on the roster and worked a deadline trade for former Panthers and Rams standout Will Witherspoon. He has been an instant tonic to their front seven, scoring a touchdown off an interception early in his debut against the Redskins.
The Eagles have regained form with two impressive divisional wins. They've found their play calling balance on offense and their run stopping balance on defense. They're every bit as steady as Dallas. They were ripped for years for saddling Donovan McNabb with pedestrian receivers. Now, they have two speedsters in rookie Jeremy Maclin and big-play man extraordinaire DeSean Jackson, who hasn't found a secondary yet he could not get behind.
McNabb has overcome a fractured rib to post an impressive 9-1 touchdown to interception ratio. They're not beating themselves on offense anymore.
They're taking games away on defense, with a league-best, plus-12 turnover ratio. They got seven opening week and have continued to pilfer footballs. They have a 12-2 turnover edge the last month.
Both teams are in a groove. One may knock the other off-balance, or, we may in due for a classic game.
Key Matchups
When Dallas went 13-3 two years ago, Adams shut Cole down. He's the man Cowboys fans love to hate, because of his copious false starts. But when he's on, he can shut down any top rusher. And Flo has been on recently. He stumped John Abraham two weeks ago and has not committed a penalty since K.C.
He's always a liability on the road, because he's deaf in his right ear. This will be his first road game since Arrowhead. I'll gladly take a five yard flag or two if he blocks Cole the way he did Abraham.
Demarcus Ware vs. Jason Peters and Winston Justice.
The Cowboys flop their linebackers a lot, putting Anthony Spencer over the tight end and Ware on the weak side as much as possible. Against Atlanta, they gave the struggling Spencer more rush reps at right end, where he played in college, and it seemed to help him; He looked far more comfortable coming off the QBs weak side and carried that strong performance (he shared a sack and recovered a Matt Ryan fumble) to Seattle, where he showed more power and certainty from his usual left end spot.
The Cowboys will flop Ware and Spencer again, I imagine, looking for Ware's best match-up. Jason Peters has struggled in pass protection, allowing 14 sacks in '07 and '08. He was dinged in the Washington game but returned last week. If Ware gets him early, Dallas may keep Ware on Peters all day. Look however, for the Cowboys to get Ware some early reps against Justice.
Jason Witten vs. Will Witherspoon
The Eagles love to blitz their corners and safeties, meaning WItten will get a lot of man coverage. Look for Dallas to run Witten on deep outs and crosses early, to see how the newbie Witherspoon covers in space.
DeSean Jackson vs. Terence Newman and Ken Hamlin
Jackson is the Eagles' igniter, with six plays of over 50 yards this year. He torched Pacman Jones on a bomb in the week two match-up last year. He got Newman on an early seam route in the season ender which set up the Eagles' second score.
Keeping Jackson in front of the secondary would go a long way towards winning the game, but it's far easier said than done. Dallas will surely give Newman, who has been the targeted Dallas corner lately, help over the top with FS Hamlin. They don't need a big early Jackson pass to help the Eagles off to another quick start.
Miles Austin vs. Sheldon Brown and Asante Samuel
The Eagles may roll coverage to Austin's side, but that's not their style. They have two big-money corners and they let them play. Brown has been hot and cold in recent years but he's red hot so far this year. Dallas will likely run Austin at Samuel, who plays the ball-hawk in their scheme. He'll give up some big plays going after picks, and he's good at getting them.
Jason Garrett burned both Eagles corners last year with stop and go moves, taking advantage of their aggressiveness. He may use Austin in this same way Sunday night.
The Dallas special teams vs. DeSean Jackson
He's a deadly return man, but the Cowboys coverage teams have been on all year. The winner of this match-up could tip the game.
Tony Romo vs. Eagles' DC Sean McDermott
- Romo in the first games against the Eagles, '07 and '08 -- 79 points, two wins.
- Romo in second games vs. Philly '06 through '08 (Drew Bledsoe played the first '06 game): 19 points, three losses.
Romo and his OC Jason Garrett have ripped the Eagles in their first meetings the last two seasons. The Eagles have stopped them cold in the rematches. Will the '07 and '08 templates hold, or will we see a wildly different result?
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I hope Witten can burn Weatherspoon on a regular basis. If so, and the Eagles have to give their MLB help,
it could open up our entire offense. Keep the MLB away from the LOS, and our run game will go nuts. .
Family, Friends, Cowboys, Beer & BBQ. Life is good!
I have a feeling
that this game will turn out like the 2007 game in Philly. I really believe that the Cowboys are going to come out firing on all cylinders. Let’s go Cowboys!!!
Flo
With Flo getting old, would they consider switching him up with Colombo? Since he’s getting older and deaf in his right ear, wouldn’t it make sense for him to play RT?
No I don't see him moving anywhere
besides, he’s been solid against some serious pass rushers this season. I don’t remember OC Humanurine and J Peppers doing anything in the games against the Panthers and Giants.
I really don't think Columbo can play LT. He doesn't have a whole lot of lateral mobility
You can do a lot of things in life. You can't stab a teammate with a pair of scissors. - Kevin Smith
There is no way the OL is shifting
Was that a “serious” post? You don’t make changes like that in the middle of the season when the team has been playing well.
by StillHateTheGiants on Nov 6, 2009 8:57 AM CST up reply actions
Is there some reason he can't get a hearing aid cobbled together...
Something that funnels sound from his right side to his left ear? Surely this is neither rocket science not against the rules.
The Texas Rangers have been synonymous with explosive firepower ever since they emptied 130 rounds into Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow in 1934. - Alyssa Milano
Like one of those giant funnels you see in old movies?
That would be great.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
This game will come down to
how well our O-line blocks for Tony and how well we can cover DeSean Jackson. It’s not just that he’s a good WR, those big plays just seem to knock the snot out of us emotionally. Need to just track him all over the field and jam him at the line.
You can do a lot of things in life. You can't stab a teammate with a pair of scissors. - Kevin Smith
I heard it somewhere before...
But it amounted to what I have said all along with this match-up…Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the face…then there plans get throwed out the window and they fight on sheer instinct, and reserve…i think this is what the Cowboys are going to do when they meet Philthy Sunday…they want a shoot-out, lets give them a shoot-out…Our O-Line will take their LB on anytime, and win hands down…Our defense always does(including last years loss in Philthy) sack the shite out of McNabb…Will Jackson be the answer to this game for Philthy…~shrugs~ maybe, maybe not…I say break his frikkin leg in the 1st Qtr and the She-gals can trash that plan quick enough…Can Macklin score without DJ in the game drawing coverage…~shrug~ maybe, maybe not…I say drop newman on him, and let Hamlin back him up…Like we did against Smith in Carolina…But if you want my personal opinion, and I am NEVER< EVER< NEVER wrong, I say this game hinges on one man and only one man…It always has, and it always will…Its a no brainer, its the reason we lost the Denver came by 2 yards, and we got beat in the last 3 minutes by the Gnats…Cmon, dawgs lets be honest…ROMO< ROMO< ROMO…he will be either the spark-plug that will drive this game into a complete and utter route for the She-gals (like he did in 2007 in Philthy), or he will lay a turd like he did in Philthy last year..Simple as that…Football is a game that is played directly between the legs of the QB…hes either got the girls or the boys to do it…no other way to say it…But here is my theory, Id rather ride into Philthy, and have Romo play a good game and loose(like he did in Dallas in the 2007 playoffs against the Gnats), than have Romo shite his drawers and win like we did in Beefalo in 2007…That was something we will as Cowboys fans never live down…I hope we go into the Linc and beat the tar out of the She-gals, but if we go in and loose, even though we gave supreme effort, I will still feel good about our chances to advance to the POs…We can beat up the bruised and battered Packers, we can beat the perrennial bottom feeders Raiders, we can even beat the NO "Aints(thats my prediction, if you dont like it~shrugs~)…Aint gonna be a problem beating any team outside of our division…I just hate playing division rivals, cause even the pathetic Skins always find a way to beat us…And it dont matter how many times we play the Giants, it always seem to work out in our favor the final time of the season(maybe, maybe not)…The only factor I aint to keen on going into the Game is the Roy Williams factor…Lets face it before we have to eat to much more shite, he was a certain, and complet bust for what we gave for him…Hes pathetic, and he tries to make exscuses, and down-plays the seriousness of the issue…I think Detroit offered to take him back for a 1st,3rd, and 6th round draft choice and taking the hit for his contract money…JJ didnt fall for that shite, and countered with giving them Carpenter, and a 2nd rd draft choice along with a box of rocks, and a used water fountain from the Old Texas Stadium…Well I just wanted to put in my 2 cents worth before I drive on down to Cowboys Stadium and watch the game on the jerry-tron…supposed to be pretty good picture quality on it, so even if we loose, I mean who wouldnt want to see a She-Gal Cheerleader spread her legs 60yds wide?….LOL…FEAR THE STAR
by Hawgz, Bugz, and FilthyFowl Hater on Nov 6, 2009 3:04 AM CST reply actions
WALL OF WORDS WALL OF WORDS WALL OF WORDS
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Try making coherent sentences/paragraphs. Nobody can take you seriously if you type like that.
by UCIrvine kings fan on Nov 6, 2009 4:08 AM CST up reply actions
Constructive criticism..
Perhaps 16 times “WALL OF WORDS” lines was a bit harsh. It’s hard to get accustomed to writing in this format. Especially when most of these comments are not drafted out..just written on the fly. Take it easy on a newcomer!
But…while there is some good stuff in the post. It does become difficult to analyze it all without some separation of points and ideas. Just for future reference.
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
Aye, I think that's why they teach that stuff in school.
Paragraphs. Punctuation. Clarity.
"We'll see." --Bill Parcells
Yes, but....
then we’d have to live without gems like this:
“Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the face…then there plans get throwed out the window”
I live near Baltimore, and the only way that sentence could be improved is with the addition of a “hon” at the end.
The post has the distinct ramblings and tone of
someone strung out on ….
I’ll just say someone who’s been awake too long
I think RW is one of the best TE's we've got. LOL
I didn’t like the trade when we made it. I don’t like it now. There was no way in my mind that Roy was going to help us mid-season like Jerry thought and he didn’t. We could have signed him for the same money probably and not given up those draft picks if we had just waited till the end of the season. Troy Aikman is now looking smarter all the time.
You can do a lot of things in life. You can't stab a teammate with a pair of scissors. - Kevin Smith
Anything I can do..
Raf can do better…
I was all primed to to a write up of my own and realized that Raf took all the points I wanted to make…analyzed them better…and added a few I hadn’t thought of. Grr..thunder stealer! :) Great post!
To the point at hand.. I think there are two critical matchups in this game you noted..
Ware vs. O-Line
If there is something you had to point out as Philly’s weakness at the moment it appears you’d settle at their offensive line. They’ve been coming together recently. But, they are certainly capable of missed assignments and poor performances. Da Raidas blitzed them into submission and as a result the Iggles took the L. I’d like to think Ware leads a pass rush that is superior to the raiders..if Dallas’ secondary can keep DeShawn and Westbrook from burning the blitz it could be a big day for D ware and crew.
Special Teams
This is what happens when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object. The eagles return game has been a real spark and DeShawn can really show a team what poor lane integrity can cost you. But, Dallas’ coverage units have been on fire.. Watkins, Alan Ball and crew have been great under coach D. Also, Buehler has become probably the most important rookie on the team leading the league with 17 touchbacks and Matt McBriar is reminding everyone what a critical loss he was last year after Arizona. Something’s got to give and lets hope its DeShawn and Co.
If I know one thing it’s this..no matter the outcome of this game…it will NOT be another 44 -6. This is a much better Dallas Cowboys team on all fronts and a good fought game would go a long way in proving that to the rest of the league.
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
The question is, will Wade stick with the blitz if he gets burned early?
I hope he has the manhood to send the dogs all game long. Damn the torpedoes, full steam ahead.
"Help, it's hot and dark in here and someone is laughing." Taco Bell
Watch the two minute warning of the first half closely
Stat that may interest only me:
The Eagles have scored 36 points so far in the last two minutes of the 2nd quarter. And while they’ve also given up 27 in the same two minutes, that’s pretty impressive.
The Cowboys have scored 26 with their two minute offense, and allowed 14. Good news: The Boys have not allowed a two minute score in the 2nd quarter over the last 4 games.
Regardless, the 2-minute warning is always good time to bring in the ‘Cavalry’, otherwise you might find yourself nailed to a cross (on Calvary?) pretty quickly indeed :-)
by One.Cool.Customer on Nov 6, 2009 5:20 AM CST reply actions
Really good point OCC
I would think holding philly scoreless would mean more to the boys than scoring themselves in the 2min drill. On the road if Philly can put up points before the half to take a lead/cut a lead down it could hurt positive momentum a ton
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 6, 2009 6:35 AM CST via mobile up reply actions
It's demoralizing too.
Watching a team just march down the field and score in less than 2 minutes seems like it sucks the wind out of our guys and beats them down a little. I think our guys have all the talent in the world (no thanks to this last draft) but I’m interested in seeing how they handle this game mentally. They can’t afford to beat themselves.
You can do a lot of things in life. You can't stab a teammate with a pair of scissors. - Kevin Smith
I did type calvary, didn't I?
(sigh) Do. Not. Type. Right. Before. Bed.
absolutely
The team that protects the ball better will win the game. If both teams protect the ball equally as well, whoever gets the ball last will probably win.
In Romo we Trust
These two teams play 10 times
and you MIGHT get one 44-6 game. But it was US that layed the egg at the worst possible time. THIS will be the number one factor in this game. They need some payback in Philthy. We’re going to see every man on the roster give 110% Sunday. Clean your TV screens, and clear the room boys, the Cowboys are coming to play. Brooking and Sensabaugh are making a difference for this team. It will show when the whistle blows. There is no more Roy Williams to pick on at Safety, and Brooking will be foaming at the mouth.
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?"
I think the only notable unmentioned match-up...
…would be Brent Celek vs. Gerald Sensabaugh. I imagine we’ll use Sensy on Celek, with maybe a LB bumping or redirecting him at times. He’s a potent offensive weapon for them.
His blocking used to be atrocious, but I’ve read that he has improved so far this season. The guy has posters of Jason Witten and Chris Cooley up in his bedroom. I am not kidding. He apparently really does, and watches Witten tape regularly.
Larry Allen benched 700 pounds. That is Leonard Davis times two.
With Sensabaugh playing well..
I’m actually not terribly worried about Celek all that much…Barbie has been doing well in coverage and Spencer has been showing a lot of improvement there as well. In consecutive weeks they’ve shut down Carlson and Gonzalez both of which are formidable TEs.
However, if the wideouts can get going then Celek could have a big day if Sensabaugh has to drop back into zone more often than being able to get on Celek.
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
Don't forget..
If Ware and Co. can get the pass rush going then Celek and/or Westbrook will have to either chip or be kept in to help the tackles. Then will come the screens and draws but the athletic ability and hustle of guys like Ware, Spencer, Ratliff, and Brooking, plus the much improved tackling in the secondary, I think we can shut down screens especially.
To that point. For some reason it seems like Dallas still likes to play off WR’s for some reason. Jackson is obviously so dangerous when he gets the ball, so tackling on quick-hitters will have to be crisp. I think Reid will get impatient quickly if he isn’t able to just bomb away, or have his playmakers make tacklers miss.
"I’m ready to go here, all right? It’s like R. Kelly at recess."
"You will come back stronger then ever. Like Lance Armstrong. But with two balls."
-Ari Gold
Jackson and Austin
are both so dangerous with the ball in their hands, but for completely different reasons. Jackson is just so freakin quick you can’t touch him…Austin is just so freakin strong you just can’t tackle him.
"What did it feel like? That collision, I didn't feel nothing, because he was pretty much defenseless. It was like running through a cardboard box. Seriously. Cardboard box."- Sheldon Brown on his pounding of Reggie Bush in the '06 Playoffs
Austin is also very quick and fast, espeically for a big man
Thats what makes him more dangerous IMO.
In Romo we Trust
I think that catching the ball Austin gives you more options
because of his size, but in the open field I think DeSean is definitely more dangerous. I see Jackson as a Santana Moss type burner and Austin as a more complete #1.
I’d rather have Austin
Austin has jets too
and I doubt there is anyone in the Eagles who could catch him in open space.
Jackson might be faster, but not by much.
In Romo we Trust
what? you think he’s slow? you drinking the insides of those batteries you throw?
by AustonianAggie on Nov 6, 2009 1:59 PM CST up reply actions
even your own Terrence Newman would catch Austin. He’s fast sure, but not DeSean/Maclin fast…those guys are little and they’re burners. It’s nothing against Austin, he’s just a different build.
People get so defensive of their own players they can’t seem to form an un-biased opinion…what do you want me to say here?
Austin’s faster than every Eagles Wideout, he’s stronger than every Eagles wideout, he jumps higher, moves quicker, and gets more girls than every WR on the Eagles.
Seriously…every guy has strengths and weaknesses, and it doesn’t detract from your guy to admit that some other highly paid professional athlete that happens to wear a different color on Sunday might actually be better at some aspect of the game than your guy.
So yes, I think DeSean is both quicker and faster than Austin. I happen to think that Austin is stronger and has better hands.
"What did it feel like? That collision, I didn't feel nothing, because he was pretty much defenseless. It was like running through a cardboard box. Seriously. Cardboard box."- Sheldon Brown on his pounding of Reggie Bush in the '06 Playoffs
of course Jackson is quicker and faster
I never said otherwise, my point is that Austin is really fast too. IMO there isn’t a huge difference between a 4.3 guy and a 4.4 guy, both of those times are blazing.
Austin is more than just a big strong receiver who can break tackles, he’s packing jets as well.
In Romo we Trust
What really counts is
how football fast are you in pads and helmet and carring a ball under your arm. I would put my money on Austin.
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
WOW
that’s just a pure homer…
There’s not an ‘expert’, analyst, or even NFL fan that could objectively say that with a straight face.
I have tried to be objective, but you guys make a real conversation so hard with your ridiculous homerism! Miles Austin is faster in pads than DeSean Jackson!!?!?!?! Do you even hear yourself, have you even watched an Eagles game? DeSean is frequently the fastest guy on the field. When he gets the ball, it almost looks like everyone else on both sides are in slow motion next to him.
"What did it feel like? That collision, I didn't feel nothing, because he was pretty much defenseless. It was like running through a cardboard box. Seriously. Cardboard box."- Sheldon Brown on his pounding of Reggie Bush in the '06 Playoffs
Agree.
Jackson already has what? 6 plays of over 50 yards this season? That’s insane. I really hope Felix is able to learn his own strengths and hone his running style enough to be a durable back or I’ll be sick knowing the Cowboys passed on DeSean twice.
Felix is scary good
He is probably the guy on your team that scares me the most. Not only does he run people over, he is quick as hell…he runs like Marion Barber and Brian Westbrook had a baby.
"What did it feel like? That collision, I didn't feel nothing, because he was pretty much defenseless. It was like running through a cardboard box. Seriously. Cardboard box."- Sheldon Brown on his pounding of Reggie Bush in the '06 Playoffs
High praise indeed.
But can he stay healthy?
Maybe there’s some kind of Razorback running back curse. Barry Foster led the AFC in rushing in 1992 with over 1,600 yards then chronic injuries knocked him out of the league within three years. Darren McFadden’s stuck in Oakland; a hell of a curse by itself. And then there’s Felix.
yeah, health is an issue
we’ve been dealing with Westbrook’s injuries for years now. At least this year, our entire offense doesn’t suck if he’s out.
"What did it feel like? That collision, I didn't feel nothing, because he was pretty much defenseless. It was like running through a cardboard box. Seriously. Cardboard box."- Sheldon Brown on his pounding of Reggie Bush in the '06 Playoffs
Maybe thats why I didn't know he was so fast.
He has such speed its just a blurr. Im sure he is the fastest man in the world because some Eagle homer says so.
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
I just don't get why it's so hard
for so many on this site (not all, because some guys are actually objective football fans) to say that we’re evenly matched and that it’s going to be a good game.
DeSean and Austin are both great weapons with different skill sets. You seem to be unable to accept that there is anything that DeSean might have at all on Austin.
Cowboy fans talk like their guys are better at every single aspect of the game than the Eagles.
Is there not one player that wears green that would start over a guy wearing stars if they were on the same team?
Maybe not…maybe every cowboy is better than every Eagle. Maybe Austin is bigger, stronger, and faster than DeSean…heck…we don’t even belong on the field with you, why don’t we just give you the win and avoid playing altogether, that way we won’t have to worry about injuries, and we can try to salvage the rest of the season with our subpar squad.
"What did it feel like? That collision, I didn't feel nothing, because he was pretty much defenseless. It was like running through a cardboard box. Seriously. Cardboard box."- Sheldon Brown on his pounding of Reggie Bush in the '06 Playoffs
Maybe that has something to do with you being more versed on Eagle related stuff and us being more versed on Cowboys related stuff…
You’re saying that Jackson is quicker and faster, meanwhile Austin is stronger and has better hands. You’re probably right, but quickness is a really troublesome measurable, you can say that Austin is as though to tackle as he is because he turns the corner as quick as he does, he has an impressive change of direction, evidenced by his KO returner numbers, which are really good.
Viva México! Go Cowboys!
All I said is that if
Jackson runs a 4.3 and Austin runs a 4.4 I think there is a chance Austin is faster in pads. We will never know will we? By the way go to the Eagles blog and tell me how many objective opions you find. I guess it’s why there are different blogs for all the teams. I think the Eagles are a very good team and may very well beat Dallas Sunday. Don’t get your panties in a wad. What our opions are on this site don’t mean sh!t anyway.
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
Just in...
DeSean Jacjson is faster than a speeding bullit
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
Sure, he's fast
he’s a professional WR in the NFL. All these guys are fast, and their “40 times” for whatever they’re worth are within hundredths of a second of each other. We’re not comparing a fast guy and a slow guy…
DeSean’s success is his ability to be at full speed in like 4 steps. That’s something that makes him special. Austin runs great routes, he has awesome hands, and he doesn’t go down on the first hit. That’s what makes him special…you can’t argue that Austin is ALSO faster than DeSean…
What’s next? He leaps over buildings in a single bound, and has XRay vision?
"What did it feel like? That collision, I didn't feel nothing, because he was pretty much defenseless. It was like running through a cardboard box. Seriously. Cardboard box."- Sheldon Brown on his pounding of Reggie Bush in the '06 Playoffs
sorry
last reply was for Dire worlf
"What did it feel like? That collision, I didn't feel nothing, because he was pretty much defenseless. It was like running through a cardboard box. Seriously. Cardboard box."- Sheldon Brown on his pounding of Reggie Bush in the '06 Playoffs
We haven't seen him do that
Wish we had flubber tho
Just becuz you put yer boots in the oven don't make it bread
by dcfansinceiwasababy on Nov 6, 2009 6:46 PM CST up reply actions
You cant debate Terry. He isnt wrong and is a Homers Homer.
I think that an excellent analysis of their games. CBs dont seem to land a hand on Desean. They lay a hand on Austin but it isnt enough with his strength. Austin will be seeing more and more attention over the next several weeks. We will see how he responds. I think he is ready but will have adjustments to make.
KICK ASS every day!!!
I agree
Jackson is ridiculously fast and once he eludes a tackler, it’s hard to recover. Unlike Jacksoin who is at full speed in a couple of steps, Ausin takes a bit longer to reach.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
I see us
using the same strategy we used against Atlanta on a regular basis as well. Put Scandrick out there on Celek. Newman with Hamlin shading Jackson, Jenkins on Maclin, Scandrick on Celek and Sensi playing the strong side of the field.
Sounds good to me.
Then you've got a linebacker on Westbrook
I’m not saying that’s not the way to go, but not many LBs can cover Westbrook when he’s running routes.
You can’t put a CB on everyone, but it’s only fair to note that the Eagles are probably going to be able to find a couple mismatches at some point in the game. No shame in that— they’ve got a lot of weapons. The goal will likely just be limiting the damage. SOMEONE is going to get some yards on us. The example I always think of is Bill Belichik telling his defense before the Giants/Bills 1990 Super Bowl: “Thurman Thomas is going to have 100 yards against us on Sunday. And we are going to have to be okay with that.”
Larry Allen benched 700 pounds. That is Leonard Davis times two.
If Westbrook lines up wide
then Sensi covers him, but you never have anyone but a linebacker on a running back that comes out of the backfield anyway, so that part stays the same. I don’t know if Sensi coming up to cover Westbrook is a good idea or not, I am just kinda thinking out loud here
To shut down Philly
you have to pressure the qb like the Raiders did, thats the only way. If we don’t get pressure, they’ll put up some points no doubt.
In Romo we Trust
You're right
we have so many offensive weapons, but our OBVIOUS weak point is McNabb’s inability to get the ball to them when he gets rattled.
"What did it feel like? That collision, I didn't feel nothing, because he was pretty much defenseless. It was like running through a cardboard box. Seriously. Cardboard box."- Sheldon Brown on his pounding of Reggie Bush in the '06 Playoffs
Did you look at
McNabb’s passer rating against the blitz? It is 3rd worst in the league. On top of that he can’t complete passes while he is on his back.
Btw, I read your comment as sarcasm, if it isn’t please ignore what I have written.
No, not sarcasm
I’m not the biggest McNabb supporter in the world. I really believe that our team is LOADED with talent, and I believe that McNabb can get rattled kind of easily…and when he does he holds the ball too long for a sack, or just throws it in the dirt.
He can be AWESOME if the line gives him time…but that has not been consistent this year. I hope we pick up where we left off against the Giants, but that Oakland game still scares me
"What did it feel like? That collision, I didn't feel nothing, because he was pretty much defenseless. It was like running through a cardboard box. Seriously. Cardboard box."- Sheldon Brown on his pounding of Reggie Bush in the '06 Playoffs
all QBs are like that
I have yet to see a qb not get rattled when facing a lot of pressure.
In Romo we Trust
and Eli as well
Romo’s been ON FIRE though in the last couple games. McNabb was great against the Giants, but even though we beat the Redskins he was still as off then as he was in Oakland. I hope he comes out against you like he did against the Giants, but we haven’t been consistent, so I still can’t sit here and talk shit like I even know what Eagles team is going to walk out onto the field.
"What did it feel like? That collision, I didn't feel nothing, because he was pretty much defenseless. It was like running through a cardboard box. Seriously. Cardboard box."- Sheldon Brown on his pounding of Reggie Bush in the '06 Playoffs
Or which Cowboys team for that matter
I personally think both teams are good enough to win just based on which team shows for each.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
yeah, nothing would surprise me in this game except for a blowout either way.
"What did it feel like? That collision, I didn't feel nothing, because he was pretty much defenseless. It was like running through a cardboard box. Seriously. Cardboard box."- Sheldon Brown on his pounding of Reggie Bush in the '06 Playoffs
Of course Philly's going to exploit some mismatches
But so is Dallas. We both have so many weapons! I can’t expect our LBs to hang with Barber, Felix, and Witten…just like you’re hard pressed to match up well every time against our guys.
I really can’t see a more evenly matched game than this.
"What did it feel like? That collision, I didn't feel nothing, because he was pretty much defenseless. It was like running through a cardboard box. Seriously. Cardboard box."- Sheldon Brown on his pounding of Reggie Bush in the '06 Playoffs
it will come down to 2 things
which team gets the most pressure on the opposing qb and which team protects the ball the best.
In Romo we Trust
I agree with all of those points Raf but I also think
this is such an evenly matched game that special teams might be the difference.
Half of Deseans TDs have come for special teams. That doesnt even cover the field position that he gives them. This is a game where Joe D. will earn his keep along with having McBriar back and the drafting of Bueler. Bueler driving them deep causing a touchback or Mcbriar hanging a high direction kick allowing 4 or 5 guys surronding him as the ball arrives will priceless. Both of our teams thrive on the big plays. Taking away half of Deseans game and not allowing field position, momentum, and fan frenzys will be a key component.
KICK ASS every day!!!
AHHHH!! I just went and re read your piece and saw you covered STs.
I guess the one line didnt seem enough to me for this key matchup.
KICK ASS every day!!!
I think it's an alligorical reference
You know, Jesus…Calvary…being saved?
If not, the mistake is a great Freudian slip.
He who knows nothing is closer to the truth than he whose mind is filled with falsehoods and errors. - Thomas Jefferson
SHTG reaches for the dictionary
Starts thumbing through the A’s
by StillHateTheGiants on Nov 6, 2009 9:04 AM CST up reply actions
funny thing is it DOES
work the other way too, though the religious reference was not my intent.
We are God's team after all
He who knows nothing is closer to the truth than he whose mind is filled with falsehoods and errors. - Thomas Jefferson
You're not a doucher
I typed it out right before bed and didn’t proofread.
It’s been fixed.
"Here I am thinking you're some huge doucher...
…but the whole time you’re not a doucher."
Larry Allen benched 700 pounds. That is Leonard Davis times two.
Have to ask any Eagles fans lurking
Is Reid calling the plays again or is Morhinweg handling the play sheet again?
WIth the Oakland play calling so skewed to the pass, I assumed Andy was back at the controls.
Don't see anything wrong with the Oakland game plan
I mean, you’ve got an injury-savaged OL and a third-string tackle going up against Richard Seymour from the 2nd quarter onward…why wouldn’t you want your QB dropping back 40+ times? Solid Andy Reid football.
Of course, as I’ve said before, he only submits coaching stinkers like that against non-Cowboys opponents. When Dallas comes to town, he suddenly completely sublimates his ego and becomes the savviest coach in the NFC with brilliant, balanced game plans that are exactly the opposite of what I expected.
Man do I hate that guy. Walrus-looking SOB.
Larry Allen benched 700 pounds. That is Leonard Davis times two.
When Eagles fans.....
….were calling for his head I told them they were stupid. Obviously they are stupid for other reasons as well, but I digress.
If you could give me Andy Reid as HC of the Cowboys I’d take him in a heartbeat.
It's sort of a mystery to us fans too
Andy swears that Marty is calling plays, so I’ll believe that (but I think Marty is just as pass-happy as Reid, maybe moreso)
"What did it feel like? That collision, I didn't feel nothing, because he was pretty much defenseless. It was like running through a cardboard box. Seriously. Cardboard box."- Sheldon Brown on his pounding of Reggie Bush in the '06 Playoffs
Witten has run about one seam route this season
I don’t see that changing this week. I imagine he’ll be the blocking safety valve again.
It may be sacrilege to say this...
So, I don’t want to get lambasted here, and I will say right up front that I am already tremendously stressed for this game, and I consider every single Cowboys/Eagles game basically life or death. And I get far too hyped up over early season games— for instance, I acted as if our season was basically riding on that Week 2 match-up with the Giants. When clearly it was not, based on what we have seen since then.
So with all that said, and understanding that as fans we are emotionally very involved in this Sunday’s outcome:
Is this game REALLY a huge deal? Is it REALLY the end of the world if we lose?
I would say that no, it’s not. Sure, it’s important because 1) it’s a game, and every game in a 16 game season counts, and 2) it’s a division game, so it’s more likely to have playoff tiebreaker implications. So you’d definitely rather win it than lose it.
But it’s still only Week 9. A loss can certainly be recovered from. And I worry a bit about peaking too early. The Giants were 10-0 last year, and flamed out in the Wild Card round, as did the 13-3 Cowboys in 2007. You want to hit your stride at the right time, as the 2007 Giants and 2008 Cardinals did. You don’t want the best moment of your season to be Week 9. Obviously I don’t think a loss is better than a win, because a November win counts as much as a December one does when they decide the playoff seedings, but at the same time, this is still just one regular season game.
Furthermore, in recent history this Cowboys team has consistently beaten the Eagles in their first match-up of the season (and in 2007, beaten the Giants in their first TWO match-ups of the season), only to be out-game-planned and out-executed in the later season match-ups (which some would argue are slightly more important). I worry that Andy Reid learns from our first match-ups and always seems to adjust very well for the second one. I think this was even more of a concern when Jim Johnson was around— he ALWAYS seemed to have us figured out by the second time around. Obviously he’s gone now, so maybe that will help us a bit.
But if I had to pick between two outcomes, I’d rather trounce the Eagles in our SECOND game against them than the first, because I think the two teams have learned more about each other at that point and the outcome is less fluke-ish and more indicative of the caliber of the coaches and players.
Obviously the dream scenario is to sweep the regular season series and not even have to see the Eagles in the playoffs, but that hasn’t been the trend in recent history. So I’ll be hoping for a win on Sunday, but even if we lose, I won’t consider it the end of the world, as much as it will frustrate me not to be able to pound those hated foes each and every time we see them.
Larry Allen benched 700 pounds. That is Leonard Davis times two.
you're right, however....
a loss basically takes us realistically out of the division race with 2 East losses already. I can’t see the Eagles folding down the stretch.
In Romo we Trust
We tend to get stronger down the stretch
but I always go in to the season expecting to split with Dallas. Both teams are too talented to actually expect a sweep…it could happen for either team, but realistically you have to think we split. I’m really only giving this game to the Eagles b/c we’re at home…
"What did it feel like? That collision, I didn't feel nothing, because he was pretty much defenseless. It was like running through a cardboard box. Seriously. Cardboard box."- Sheldon Brown on his pounding of Reggie Bush in the '06 Playoffs
You think the Eagles are finishing 14-2?
The division race is far from over, even if we lose. Makes tiebreakers tougher, but it doesn’t knock us completely out.
Larry Allen benched 700 pounds. That is Leonard Davis times two.
no, I think they'll finish around 11-5, same as us
that’s why IMO this game is a must win for having any hope for winning the East.
In Romo we Trust
This whole PEAK thing is highly overrated
by Cowboys fans sensitive to playing poorly late in the season. But for a slippery, fumbled football, we probably beat Seattle. Did we peak too soon? Really? The most recent seasons are often used as examples of a team “peaking.”
Can’t a team reach a level of excellence (or just good all-around football) and MAINTAIN it through the season? When I think on the Cowboys of the 90’s, there was never a worry that they would play too well too soon, and I just think the idea is nonsense. It’s like we are hoping the Boys don’t play too well yet so they will play well later.
Yes teams get hot, on a roll, whatever you want to call it, and it’s nice when that happens late in the season, but to suggest that playing well early or midway through a season is something to fear just makes me laugh.
IMO, a team doesn’t have to necessaryily “peak” — they can simply play well all season long and into the playoffs, and crown it all with a Superbowl victory. I’ve seen that happen 3 times in Dallas in the last decade.
Check out this chart, produced by ESPN
here
It says Miles Austin has been targeted the 5th most times of all WRs who have ZERO drops. He also has the most touchdowns of all WRs with ZERO drops who have been targeted more than 40 times.
Its amazing how he’s grown as a player, now running elite routes, with solid hands
that cant be right...
i remember Austin dropping balls in the KC game?
he didn't have any drops that game
those passes were defended by the CBs and knocked out of his hands, those aren’t considered drops.
In Romo we Trust
I'm assuming the pass has to be considered catchable
On the first miss in K.C. Romo was about a foot long and Austin never had control of it. On the second the ball was stripped from his hands by a CB.
Dallas' secondary worries me in this game
“The Cowboys have allowed at least two passing touchdowns in five of seven games this season and four in a row. They are allowing more than 237 passing yards per game.”
I it’s a shootout, I think the Eagles have better CB’s and secondary. Hopefully TNew will finally come to play and Jenkins will have an outstanding game.
by torchindefenses on Nov 6, 2009 11:16 AM CST reply actions
I agree that our secondary is better
but I think your run game is better, and will help you sustain drives. I have been unimpressed with our ability to methodically drive down a long field for a score. It seems (with the exception of the Giants game) that if we can’t pull off a big play, we can’t get points.
"What did it feel like? That collision, I didn't feel nothing, because he was pretty much defenseless. It was like running through a cardboard box. Seriously. Cardboard box."- Sheldon Brown on his pounding of Reggie Bush in the '06 Playoffs
it's not about the secondary, it's all about the pass rush
Neither secondary can hang with the opposing WRs if either qb is given time to throw.
In Romo we Trust
How about some predictions for this game.
I got:
Roy Williams has over 100 yards on 3 catches
Eagles will try an onside kick if they start the game kicking off
Cowboys will make this game seem over with 6min left to play
Cowboys will close out this game with a special teams TD
Am i the only one..
who thinks Crayton should get a shot at kickoff returns? The stress of handing the ball to Felix and waiting for him to get back up without limping is already a lot too handle.. but kickoffs too? That’s just too much.
"I’m ready to go here, all right? It’s like R. Kelly at recess."
"You will come back stronger then ever. Like Lance Armstrong. But with two balls."
-Ari Gold
I think this will be a high scoring game.
And you know I’m never wrong after all I took NYG last week. So with thought in mind.
Dallas 17 Eagles 13
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
not to sound like an ass
but 17-13 doesn’t sound like a “high scoring game”…unless the humor was the purpose of your post, in which case I missed it, and definitely sound like an ass
"What did it feel like? That collision, I didn't feel nothing, because he was pretty much defenseless. It was like running through a cardboard box. Seriously. Cardboard box."- Sheldon Brown on his pounding of Reggie Bush in the '06 Playoffs
I'm thinking there will be more than 80 points on the board
by AustonianAggie on Nov 6, 2009 1:11 PM CST up reply actions
That seems to be a consensus.
That it will be a high scoring game. But the steam moved to the NYG last week also, like five points. That is a big swing and I drank the koolade with the rest of the betting fools. So I’m going the other way this week against the flow. BET THE UNDER!!!
Tom Landry=the greatest football mind ever.
Its a tough game for the Boys to win!
At Philly on Sunday Night! Tough! I have been watching the NFL way too long to know better than saying any game this early in the season is a “must win”.
As I pointed out in previous posts, a team may lose, but actually use that game as a stepping stone. If Dallas can lay it all out, and leave Philly with an understanding about what they need to improve on, and use this game as motivation to improve in every aspect of the game, they walk away winners.
by spadesking131313 on Nov 6, 2009 3:40 PM CST up reply actions
At least the onsides kick is realistic
by StillHateTheGiants on Nov 6, 2009 12:27 PM CST reply actions
I can't see us kicking onside to start
most points against us have come because ST gave up really good field position to our opponents. We’re REALLY looking to win the field position battle, and onside is too risky
"What did it feel like? That collision, I didn't feel nothing, because he was pretty much defenseless. It was like running through a cardboard box. Seriously. Cardboard box."- Sheldon Brown on his pounding of Reggie Bush in the '06 Playoffs
Why are you really looking to win the field position battle
when your offense seems to rely so heavily on big plays? I thought field position matters for defensive games where teams grind back and forth and FGs are important.
haha has Desean Jackson scored this year when he has less than 60 yards to go?
by AustonianAggie on Nov 6, 2009 1:10 PM CST up reply actions
More for our Defense than our O
Against New Orleans, between turnovers and Special Teams, Brees and Co. only had to work a short field against our defense…they basically started 4 drives in field goal range…thats 12 gift points if your defense is awesome!!!
So yeah, while our offense would benefit from a short field, you’re right about our big plays…and it’s our defense that would probably find it critical.
"What did it feel like? That collision, I didn't feel nothing, because he was pretty much defenseless. It was like running through a cardboard box. Seriously. Cardboard box."- Sheldon Brown on his pounding of Reggie Bush in the '06 Playoffs
Don't know why
But I feel good about this game for the Cowboys, I think they’re gonna win, I just do
Just becuz you put yer boots in the oven don't make it bread
by dcfansinceiwasababy on Nov 6, 2009 6:53 PM CST reply actions
Every body has a plan until they get punched in the face…then they throw their plan out the window
by Hawgz, Bugz, and FilthyFowl Hater on Nov 7, 2009 2:36 PM CST reply actions
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