Cowboys Defense 2009 - Fast and Furious
by Jim Vance on Jun 4, 2009 1:30 AM CDT
in General
173 comments
The Cowboys secondary made a quantum leap from 2007 to 2008 by adding Orlando Scandrick and Mike Jenkins to the mix. There were still some obvious gaps that had to be filled and it looks to me like the team has done exactly that through free agency and the draft.
Gerald Sensabaugh should be an upgrade at safety by virtue of his coverage skills and athleticism.
I read through the bios of our draft picks looking for common threads. These players are all attackers who fit well with the aggressive Phillips 34. The transition from the read-and-react defense that Parcells preferred should be complete this season. The Cowboys secondary will improve again this year over last and Wade is sending the message to opposing QBs that this defense is going to pin their ears back and come after you.
Take a look at some of our draftees to get an idea of where this defense is headed for 2009.
Jason Williams OLB - One of the most underrated players in the 2009 NFL Draft, Williams was a terror in opposing backfields since shifting to weak-side linebacker from strong safety as a sophomore. In each of his last three seasons, he ranked among the nation's leaders in forced fumbles and tackles behind the line of scrimmage.
Victor Butler - LB - A standout pass rusher who broke out to register 10.5 sacks as a junior despite only starting one game, Butler was first-team All-Pac-10 and tied the single-season sack record at OSU with 12 as a senior and leaves second in school history with 25.5 career sacks.
Brandon Williams - LB -After all, Williams led the conference with 13 sacks, earning first-team All-Big 12 accolades as a junior, and leaves Tech ranked fourth in school history with 22.5 career sacks.
DeAngelo Smith - CB - The two (Smith and Mickens) combined for 26 interceptions during their careers together, more than any other active duo in the NCAA in 2008.
Mike Hamlin - SS - His 14 interceptions rank third in school annals and his 243 yards gained on interception returns rank second. He also ranks second in school history with 18 takeaways (four forced fumbles, 14 pass thefts).
Stephen Hodge - LB - His eight sacks led all Football Bowl Subdivision defensive backs in 2007, though he basically played linebacker in TCU's defense and blitzed often.
Mike Mickens - CB - Mickens was named All-American and All-Big East Conference first-team as a junior. He combined with fellow cornerback DeAngelo Smith to register 14 interceptions, the most by a cornerback duo in the major college ranks in 2007. Mickens' six pass thefts rank second on the school single-season record list, as he brought two of those thefts back for scores, gaining 136 return yards. He delivered 53 tackles (33 solos) and deflected six passes while also recovering a fumble.
These are just the rookies, the backups who are trying to make the team, but from their strengths it's clear that the Cowboys defense is going to be fast and furious.
DeMarcus Ware and Anthony Spencer are two speed rushers coming from either edge and Igor Olshansky, Marcus Spears and Jay Ratliff will do combat in the middle. Some of those rushers will require a double team which means somebody is going to have a shot at the opposing QB, hopefully creating hurried/forced throws. Better coverage skills in our defensive backfield should mean more jumped routes and more turnovers for us.
I can't wait.
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I too can't wait...
Just as last year, everyone wanted to jump on the Cowboys’ “Super Bowl or Bust” bandwagon, this year everyone is writing them off.
Why?
This defense has been a long time coming, starting with the Ware / Spears / Canty / Ratliff draft and now finally with the Sensabaugh acquisition, all holes have been filled. I am starting to dream of the DDD finally being put back into BIG D. There’s not a QB in the league that can throw from their butts. We’ve shown it in flashes. The Colts game November ‘07 was one example – Wade was at his finest in that game. We even pressured Brady for stretches when the Pats came to town. In ’08 the Dallas Big D was dominant for a 5-6 game stretch. Now I want to see that for the entire season. I don’t need ‘86 Bears or recent Ravens dominance, but I’m looking forward to some entertaining stuff from this group.
If our offensive line can stay away from injuries, and given a little time and a few running holes, this offense will be formidable. Throw in the return of McBriar and Folk, the addition of Buehler and other rooks, and the special teams should also be greatly improved.
Why shouldn’t we win 11 or 12 games?
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jun 4, 2009 2:55 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
What?
The Colts game November ‘07 was one example – Wade was at his finest in that game.
The Cowboys didn’t play the Colts in November 2007 or at all in 2007 for that matter. You must be referring to the old regime’s big win against the previously undefeated and eventual super bowl champion Colts in 2006. Hard to take your love for Wade seriously when you give him credit for games he didn’t even coach (he was the Chargers DC at the time).
"Confidence doesn't come out of nowhere. It's a result of something... hours and days and weeks and years of constant work and dedication." --Roger Staubach
by dave33 on Jun 4, 2009 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wade's finest game was the second game against New York last year
"We play to win the game" - Herm Edwards
by nicholas.rodriguez on Jun 4, 2009 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought the Steeler's game was his finest
as DC. That goal line stand was great.
"Confidence doesn't come out of nowhere. It's a result of something... hours and days and weeks and years of constant work and dedication." --Roger Staubach
by dave33 on Jun 4, 2009 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
Is it too early to ask what round I should aim for Felix in my fantasy football league?
by Aaron Novinger on Jun 4, 2009 2:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That was a great stand.
it was weird, I... I mean you probably didn't hear about it because I went under the name of Mike Honcho. But I just wanted you to know that. If you can hear me, if it got into your brain somehow. That I spread my buttcheeks as Mike Honcho.
by AirforceBat on Jun 4, 2009 3:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's hard for me to give credit to the coach for a goal line stand
I thought the defense played great almost that entire game but a goal line stand to me is a bunch of players defeating the guy across from them. Credit to the players.
by StillHateTheGiants on Jun 4, 2009 8:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hamlin Made A Great Play at Goalline
as I recall
by Iowacowboy on Jun 4, 2009 9:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, that was a great play.
Took the guy down before he could score—on a solid solo tackle.
Is it too early to ask what round I should aim for Felix in my fantasy football league?
by Aaron Novinger on Jun 7, 2009 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I loved that game against the Colts... but you are right, it was Bill's best ... not Wade's
can a 46 year old claim old age as an excuse?
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jun 4, 2009 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rosey glasses?
Fans, I’m sorry but I’m not joing this love fest.
Every one of the rookies noted above are hopefuls. Each off-season there are exceptions who arrive at training camp and contribute from day one. Usually those are the first rounders, but occasionally there’s a Marion Barber in mix. And the rest? Some sneak into the 53 man squad and replace last year’s hopeful whose done collecting a paycheck while holding the clip-board.
Optimistically, 1 of 4 rookies make contributions in their first year. Maybe another 1 of 3 manage to hang-around and become contributors within 3 years of being drafted. By these expectations, last year’s draft was a great draft. But not every draft can be so lukcy.
I think we’d be damn luck to have 3 of the above rookies successfully contributing (beyond special teams) this year. And the way the talent on this defense breaks-down, we NEED at least 3 if not 4 or 5 to be making immediate contributions. (my guess is we’ll need significant snaps from a new 3rd down inside LB, two passrushers, one cornerback, one safety—not starters, but contributors).
So, what’s up with this class of 12? Why would 50% or more of our picks become valuable contributors — perhaps show flashes of dominance — in this first year?
I don’t see it. I think this is a building year for the Cowboys and are talent/experience level is diminished from last year to this year.
Call me a pessimist, but I think my doubts are steeped in reality.
by Eagles suck on Jun 4, 2009 3:54 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Where is the reality in this rebuilding myth?
The reality is that we are not asking much of ANY rookie… we’re looking for them to spell starters on occasion, MAYBE get into the nickle package … do what most rookies do. You said 1 in 4, conservative but realistic I would agree. With that metric, let’s say we get quality time from at least one LB and one DB out of this bunch, plus one surprise. That would do the job!
We’ve got quality starters, so where is this “rebuilding” theory? The only place I see us rolling the dice is with a relatively unproven receiving corps. But the coaches are satisfied they will get quality time from Austin and Hurd, and with Witten, Crayton, RoyW, Romo, and our RB trio, we have the talent already. Now, all bets are off if we end up with a rash of injuries, but that is true for every team in the league with the possible exception of New England.
Rebuilding is asking a half-dozen unproven guys to step in. Where is even ONE in our starting 22?
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jun 4, 2009 7:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
what you are mistaking
is that the team is not asking the rookies to contribute. in fact of the 22 starting positions, 20 of them are set. We filled Roy Williams (SS) spot with Sensebaugh and I can’t think why he wouldn’t be an upgrade since he is faster, more athletic and did better than Williams.
now, we have botten better depth. so a few years back we had reeves and jones as back up. now we have mickens and scandrick. that’s an improvement. the team is more depth and versatility than it did before, except for one position: Nickle MLB. we have to find a replacement for Burnette. Of all the losses this off season, this one is flying under the radar and if we can’t find an answer to this, then the QB s will complete a lot of 3rd down passes to TEs and RBs for first downs.
by CowboysFanatic on Jun 4, 2009 11:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
When did he do better than Williams?
The Jags’ pass defense was ranked 24th in the league last year.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you're kidding, right?
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jun 4, 2009 2:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No.
Please show me where he “did better” than Roy Williams.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 3:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I imagine he did better than Roy last year.
Considering Roy was out for most of the season. Even if he isn’t better and this is just purely optimism, he’ll be a patch until this team can draft a better one.
I look at him like if he excels great if he sucks than how much of a dropoff could there be?
it was weird, I... I mean you probably didn't hear about it because I went under the name of Mike Honcho. But I just wanted you to know that. If you can hear me, if it got into your brain somehow. That I spread my buttcheeks as Mike Honcho.
by AirforceBat on Jun 4, 2009 4:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I guess you could say that.
I guess Roy only playing in 2 games makes it so that Sensabaugh was better than him last year, but on the other hand, Roy gave up far less catches, yardage, and big plays than Sensabaugh did.
Please, please, tell me that you knocked on wood this time.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 4:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
most ridiculous argument to date
by your argument Jason Campbell was a better QB than Tom Brady because he outdid him in every statistical category last year.
Roy was THE liability on defense. He was so bad he made others around him worse. Same with Kieth Davis and others when Roy got hurt.
Sensabaugh will not only be better than Roy this year, but will make Ken Hamlin have the best year of his career because he doesn’t have to worry about the other safety allowing a big play.
Jim, great write-up as usual.
The inherent vice of capitalism is the unequal sharing of blessings; the inherent virtue of socialism is the equal sharing of miseries.
-Winston Churchill
by HudBaby on Jun 4, 2009 9:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I believe the word is sarcasm
The scouting reports posted on Sensabaugh make me a little nervous – I guess I was drinking the cool-aid a bit…
But the input I like the best was from Jags fans – saying he was a bright spot on that D … of course, you’d say that if you’re a Sensabaugh fan and wanted to cheer him on in Dallas.
He can’t be worse than Roy in coverage… and younger legs / better range will be a BIG help with Wade’s blitzing packages.
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jun 4, 2009 10:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was joking.
and it was AirforceBat that said Sensabaugh did better than Roy last year because Roy only played 2 games. My argument was actually that the guy who played less did better, and both arguments were made jokingly.
It’s kind of funny to say that Roy was THE problem, when he only played 2 games last year and they won both of them. And after he’s hurt everyone’s saying poor defense and run stopping was a problem.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 10:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If your starter is out, he IS the problem just as much as if he was in there screwing up.
Is it too early to ask what round I should aim for Felix in my fantasy football league?
by Aaron Novinger on Jun 7, 2009 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You may be a realist...
however you might want to watch the America’s Game segment on the 1998 Denver Broncos. The majority of that team was made up of undrafted free agents. I don’t see why the majority of these draft picks can’t contribute to this team. It all comes down to coaching and I think Wade has some good coaches to go around.
by TheCowboyFan on Jun 4, 2009 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Such short memories
I under the skepticism, but I want to know how a team that was expected to win 12-13 games last year is now expected to win 8-9. What have they lost that takes 4 wins off. Even if you doubt Roy as a replacement for TO he is still gonna get 800-900 yards, and 7-9 TD’s, so the drop off is not huge. The running game is much better than anyone thought it would be at the beginning of last year, and the secondary went from being a huge weakness to an area of strength with the addition of Jenkins, Scandrick, and Sensabaugh. All of this is without even considering the hopeful improvement of our special teams, and the 1-3 rookies who will find other ways to contribute. It just seems to me that everyone saw us go 9-7 last year and then figured losing TO made us worse so at best the Cowboys win 8 maybe 9 games this year, when in reality last year was a major underachievement due in large part to injuries and off field problems. I am not saying we are gonna win the Superbowl, but I 10-11 wins is a very reasonable expectation, even in an outrageously difficult division.
by Tenaciousc924 on Jun 4, 2009 5:53 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
EXPECTED TO WIN 12. : They only won 9 gams and missed the playoffs
They were punked in Philly. That’s what bothers me the most. This team quit.
They only won 9. They haven’t added one significant starter to a team that bellied up for the 10th straight season. If they only won 9 games with a much more talented team. How can you expect to win 12 this year. That’s some crazy math your working with.
by Sharksbreath on Jun 4, 2009 7:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
TO + Roy I + Canty +Henry + Zach ... is better????
1. Returning all starters to the O-Line = now THAT is MUCH better this year than last. (if our running game was good last year, imagine what a healthy line can for these backs)
2. Sensabaugh Jenkins + Scandrick are so much better than ROY I and Henry, people will be talking about this secondary as a strength… when’s the last time you heard that?
3. TO dropped so many passes… bytched so often… and disappeared for stretches (especially when pressed) … I’m not so sure how much he’ll be missed, but I do know there’s potential for improvement here.
You’re right, they were punked in Philly… they’ve “bellied up” for 10 straight finishes… but don’t you have even a glimmer of hope that this team is intent on breaking that trend?
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jun 4, 2009 7:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You know...
that you’re just wasting time out of your life to respond to someone who isn’t going to give you an intelligent reply or discussion because he doesn’t have one.
it was weird, I... I mean you probably didn't hear about it because I went under the name of Mike Honcho. But I just wanted you to know that. If you can hear me, if it got into your brain somehow. That I spread my buttcheeks as Mike Honcho.
by AirforceBat on Jun 4, 2009 8:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow, do you know something about Shark I don't know
That was a pretty condescending remark.
"Confidence doesn't come out of nowhere. It's a result of something... hours and days and weeks and years of constant work and dedication." --Roger Staubach
by dave33 on Jun 4, 2009 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Have you read any of his posts?
Then you’d know.
by danielt on Jun 4, 2009 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
that's what I was asking.
"Confidence doesn't come out of nowhere. It's a result of something... hours and days and weeks and years of constant work and dedication." --Roger Staubach
by dave33 on Jun 4, 2009 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Look through his posts.
I try not to be condescending to people, but if you look through his posts you’d probably understand.
it was weird, I... I mean you probably didn't hear about it because I went under the name of Mike Honcho. But I just wanted you to know that. If you can hear me, if it got into your brain somehow. That I spread my buttcheeks as Mike Honcho.
by AirforceBat on Jun 4, 2009 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Having looked through his posts, I do understand
But I also recall your sensitivity to condescending comments and was therefore surprised by your comments.
"Confidence doesn't come out of nowhere. It's a result of something... hours and days and weeks and years of constant work and dedication." --Roger Staubach
by dave33 on Jun 4, 2009 1:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hmmm
Not sensitivity.
The truth is that I got jumped all over for putting remarks up that weren’t nearly as bad as some of the stuff that I’ve read and it irritates me that some people are given leeway on here and can talk down to anyone while I got attacked on the board and was talked to like a child.
Rules should apply to all people IMO and not just a certain group.
Sorry to go off on that tirade.
it was weird, I... I mean you probably didn't hear about it because I went under the name of Mike Honcho. But I just wanted you to know that. If you can hear me, if it got into your brain somehow. That I spread my buttcheeks as Mike Honcho.
by AirforceBat on Jun 4, 2009 1:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
understandable
Now that I know where you are coming from. I personally think people should grow some skin…. after all, its a debate forum.
"Confidence doesn't come out of nowhere. It's a result of something... hours and days and weeks and years of constant work and dedication." --Roger Staubach
by dave33 on Jun 4, 2009 2:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree
and sometimes debates get heated. I know that I get riled up sometimes but I generally apologize if I come off as a jackass.
Mainly because I know I’m not always right about everyting Dallas Cowboys… there are about five people who I swear to God think they own the franchise.
it was weird, I... I mean you probably didn't hear about it because I went under the name of Mike Honcho. But I just wanted you to know that. If you can hear me, if it got into your brain somehow. That I spread my buttcheeks as Mike Honcho.
by AirforceBat on Jun 4, 2009 2:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Shark, I agree..
..that the Cowboys team last year quit in Philly. No excuses, it was a disgusting.
My point is, the team that takes the field this season is not the same team, and that’s why I am excited about it. I think this years team has had a heart transplant by virtue of the youth and some of the veteran additions.
You feel that last years team was far more talented – the only place I can see where you would make that conclusion would be wide receiver with TO. The TO debate will go on forever and everybody has an opinion. My personal opinion is that TO has great physical talent but it is mitigated by his negative effect on others around him.
The running game will be better this year (barring injuries) simply because we will have starters back ie. Kosier, Felix, Barber at full strength. We didn’t have that talent available during the Philly debacle.
Special teams will be better. McBriar will be back, Coach Joe D is a better coach and we will have hungrier ST players.
The defense will be better. Thong was a liability. We had two rookie CBs who now have a year of experience under their belt and we also have better back ups at the DB positions.
We have one of the leagues best defensive minds focusing on the defense from game 1.
Sensabaugh, Olshansky, Brookings are, in my opinion, all signifigant starter additions and all to the defense (which is the point of the post)
I respect your opinions though, but with your pessimism, I’d hate to watch a game with you.
"He has a peculiar felicity of expression." John Adams
by Jim Vance on Jun 4, 2009 8:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
well one reason for that
of the 22 starting spots, we have 20 returning from last year. other than SS and WR. now, most will argue that sensebaugh is an improvement over ole Roy. frankly I can’t argue with that.
the question mark is at #1 WR spot. I don’t think we are going to get 1000 yards and 10 TDs from any one player, but we will get 800 yards and 8 TDs from a group including crayton, austin, hurd, bennett and Jones. that’s good enough.
by CowboysFanatic on Jun 4, 2009 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Your math is a little off:
New starters at SS, CB, ILB, OLB, DE, and WR. Also nickel LB. And 2 starters that are returning from injury, LG and RB. And also P.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 11:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And we needed the change
Henry played like crap last year, we had a revolving door at SS w/ Bullets finally stabilizing it, Zach played decent but Brooking is younger, bigger and a better fit, Ellis’ time was up, Canty thought himself more than he was, TO couldn’t shut up and his play was declining, Burnett wanted out, Kosier might not even be the starter, All reports say Marion and Felix are fully healthy, McB has been booming punts for about 4 months now. In all the places you mentioned there is no place that we lost too much, Roy will at least match TOs 1052 yards 10 TDs next year, and IMO the players we got are a better fit for Wade’s style and scheme the 2 big examples being, Sensabaugh, Wade likes his safeties to cover, and Brooking, Thomas was too small. And you can add Jenkins/Orlando will be a major upgrade to Henry being that those 2 guys can run, I doubt we see a bomb TD against us this year
"We play to win the game" - Herm Edwards
by nicholas.rodriguez on Jun 4, 2009 1:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Poor SS and CB play last year is over stated.
The Cowboys were 5th in the league in pass defense, so they couldn’t have been that terrible. Prior to signing with the Cowboys, Sensabaugh wasn’t known as a cover safety. TO’s play may have been declining, but so has Roy Williams’ over the past 2 years, and he still put up more yards than Roy has 4 out of 5 years in the league and more TDs than Roy ever has. If Brooking, Olshansky, and Sensabaugh are that good, you have to wonder why their former teams didn’t resign them, as we didn’t give any of them huge contracts. All reports say a lot of things, but that doesn’t mean that it’s necessarily true with injuries come game time, as we found out last year when several players came back and were re-injured, or like Felix, suffered new injuries.
Additionally, while I think they needed change, there is no clear indicator that they actually improved at any of those positions, except for if the injured players come back healthy. And I believe that if Barber resumes the starting role, we actually downgrade there. On top of that, that is a lot of new guys, both starters and backups, on the team. A lot of people are throwing around the chemistry thing to justify cutting some talented players, but part of chemistry is playing together and knowing and trusting each other on the field. When you throw 5 new starters out there on defense, there is not going to be a lot of trust. When some rookie comes in in relief, there is not going to be the same level of trust as when Greg Ellis came in. A good example was Tony Romo rarely looking Roy Williams’ way last season.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 4:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The CB play is overstated...
but the safety play was horrendous. Alot of the reason that the pass defense was so good was because of the pressure that Dallas could apply.
I’m not saying Gerald is going to be the savior, but Pat Watkins and Keith Davis at times not only looked bad in coverage but also would be out of position against the run.
it was weird, I... I mean you probably didn't hear about it because I went under the name of Mike Honcho. But I just wanted you to know that. If you can hear me, if it got into your brain somehow. That I spread my buttcheeks as Mike Honcho.
by AirforceBat on Jun 4, 2009 4:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
BPS, you make a good case here...
O-sky, Brookings & Sensabaugh will all need to spend some time fitting into the mix. And the Roy Williams – Romo connection cannot be overstated.
Not sure who else you mean, unless you include Jenkins, Scandrick and Spencer… all of whom played major roles last year… so while they may be new “starters” they’ve already been working the chemistry thing.
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jun 4, 2009 10:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Whoa...
Why does everyone think Roy can’t get 1000 yards, write it down, he has 1100 yards and 13 TDs
"We play to win the game" - Herm Edwards
by nicholas.rodriguez on Jun 4, 2009 1:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can't speak for everyone
I think he can get 1000 yards, but I highly doubt he will get 13 TDs. I doubt it for the same reason that most people who doubt he can get 1000 yards probably doubt that – his history suggests that he is not that good.
He has at least had one 1,000 yard season, but only one. I’m banking on Romo on this one, not Roy, and think he gets 1,000 again this year. But he has never had more than 8 TDs in a season, even when he had 1,300 yards receiving. I’m banking on Romo to get him around 10, which would be a career high, but I think 13 is a stretch, particularly since Romo does not excel at throwing the goal line fade.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 4:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe because he's only done it once in 6 yrs in the league
I think there’s a very good chance Williams doesn’t get 1,000 yds this year. The team is loaded with offensive talent and the ball will be spread around
by StillHateTheGiants on Jun 4, 2009 9:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I highly recommend arguments about 22 "starters"
be expanded to the 30-35 contributors that each and every team needs every game for different plays, rotations, subpackages, etc. (I’m still thinking just offense and defense—special teams is another beast). If it were really just about 22 starters, then losing Burnett wouldn’t be a concern for us. Nor should we care about Martelus Bennett’s play, nor Felix Jones, etc..
by Eagles suck on Jun 4, 2009 7:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I put the number at 30 ... here's a breakdown from where I sit:
On each item on this list, finish with “barring injury” … which we all know will happen, and it’s in that depth that people have very legitimate concerns.
… but I’m not worried about this list:
MAJOR CONTRIBUTORS:
Offense: 13 guys
5 O-linemen / weak depth
QB / good depth
2 RB / good depth
2 TE / questionable depth
3 WR / questionable depth
Defense: 17 guys
5/6 DBs / questionable depth
6 LBs / questionable depth
5 D-Line / weak depth
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jun 4, 2009 10:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would say "good depth" on TE.
We have 2 starting quality guys and our 3rd will be either John Phillips (who can play ST) and/or Rodney Hannah (who is huge and has stuck around). That’s pretty solid to me.
Is it too early to ask what round I should aim for Felix in my fantasy football league?
by Aaron Novinger on Jun 7, 2009 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
All Things Considered
The Cowboys that went 9-7 last year did so in spite of an injury-ridden season and the drama that surrounded Valley Ranch. Considering that our talent has not been diminished much and that we have had an influx of young, hungry guys, I have a hard time not getting excited about this team. And now, with the Cowboys being a little under the radar, I think their focus will improve. That is why I believe their are many reasons to be optimistic about this team and its chances this year.
There are lots of people that go to church on Sundays to get in touch with God. Personally, my church is on Sunday as well, it just happens to involve watching the Dallas Cowboys.
by Cowboyfan729 on Jun 4, 2009 5:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
we play the NFC south and AFC west
We will have at least 6 wins against these teams
50% in the division makes 9 wins
Seattle and GB to put us over 9? I’m buying.
The inherent vice of capitalism is the unequal sharing of blessings; the inherent virtue of socialism is the equal sharing of miseries.
-Winston Churchill
by HudBaby on Jun 4, 2009 9:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The NFC South is tough.
Well, Tampa isn’t, but the other 3 teams are.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 10:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Breaking it down like this actually makes me nervous!
If we’re a legit playoff contender, we need:
4-2 division
5-3 NFC south / AFC west
2-0 Seattle / Green Bay
11 – 5 ?? I’d say that feels about right. More is gravy.
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jun 4, 2009 10:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sounds about right.
I think they can do it if #9 comes to play all season long.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 10:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't see Romo as the limiting factof
Oline is what concerns me the most. Followed by a total lack of depth at lb, which we kinda need running a 3-4
by foyesboys on Jun 5, 2009 12:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
How is there lack of depth at LB?
I know alot of the guys are rookies (the 2 Williams, Butler, Hodge), but that’s 4 bodies. Also, Carp can play both ILB and SOLB, while Justin Rogers can pretty much play wherever in a pinch.
I do agree that Oline is the biggest concern. We really don’t hear much about those guys in the OTAs cuz there’s no hitting going on, but at least we can take comfort that the right side is solid. If Flo is our weakest link, then that may not be too bad a problem.
Is it too early to ask what round I should aim for Felix in my fantasy football league?
by Aaron Novinger on Jun 7, 2009 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd love to see 4-2 in the division
I think the Skins get us at home again for some strange reason. We are their super bowl when they have no chance for the playoffs
I think 6 wins vs the other 2 divisions because the only tough opponent of them we play on the road is NO. SD, ATL, and CAR all come to our house.
The inherent vice of capitalism is the unequal sharing of blessings; the inherent virtue of socialism is the equal sharing of miseries.
-Winston Churchill
by HudBaby on Jun 4, 2009 10:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like this scenario ...
If we can go 2-1 against SD, ATL and CAR at home (and that’s reasonable?) … then 12 wins is very possible.
BPS agreeing with me? I feel special.
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jun 4, 2009 10:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
we should get at LEAST 3 out of the afc west
Given that we are a good matchup against carolina, and i highly doubt we lose to the bucs (if we do, we’re way behind the 8 ball starting week 2), I think we should win 1 of the remaining SD, ATL, NO games. Maybe more. But I think we lose one to seattle or green bay.
Our division is even better this year overall – I think washington will be a sleeper. Cambell finally has 2 years under his belt with the same coordinator, and Haynesworth drastically improves their area of weakness along the dline.
I see 11-5 with a 3-3 record in a division where noone finishes better than 4-2. We’d have an extremely good chance at winning it with that record.
by foyesboys on Jun 5, 2009 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
We can easily run the table in the AFC West. We never lose to Green Bay and Seattle isn’t all that. Maybe we can catch Matt Ryan during a sophomore-jinx game, but our run D HAS to be solid against Turner and the 2 Carolina speedsters.
I always worry when we play the Saints. This is a different defense now, so maybe Sean Payton can’t surprise us with a FB feature this time.
Prediction: The Eagles and Giants are overrated. He, he.
Is it too early to ask what round I should aim for Felix in my fantasy football league?
by Aaron Novinger on Jun 7, 2009 12:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
When they don't know
and don’t bother to look closer, they say we’ve slipped backward. Sensabaugh and Spencer are upgrades. Jenkins and Scandrick are upgrades. Olshansky has heart Canty never really showed.
Felix Jones certainly seems to be a game-breaking type player. We don’t need another WR to replace Owens big plays. Anyone on offense can do it, and Jones is just the guy. Romo is a fierce competitor who knows he has something to prove….late in the season.
Have I even mentioned the draft class? That would be no. We need 3 or 4 rooks to be adequate back ups this year. That, my friends, is a cinch. The kick off game should be much better too.
The only true questions IMO, are will the O-line get it done, and will ST cover and tackle better? I won’t predict wins and losses, but I can tell you straight up this team should be markedly better than last year.
Nobody in football should be called a genius. A genius is a guy like Norman Einstein.
Joe ThEEsman
by SB Six on Jun 4, 2009 6:05 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
+1
"We play to win the game" - Herm Edwards
by nicholas.rodriguez on Jun 4, 2009 8:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Those are pretty big questions.
Especially given that everyone has blamed those 2 areas for Dallas’ downfall last year, and the OL at least is the same guys and same backups as last year.
I made the argument last year, and i’ll make it again, that a TE or RB does not equal a WR.
I hope that we have upgraded at those positions, but I can’t say that they clearly have. Scandrick and Jenkins didn’t beat out Henry last year. Olshansky lost his starting job for a few games in SD and they didn’t resign him, so I’m not sure on what you’re basing your heart analysis. He and Canty have virtually identical stats over the past few years.
My biggest concern is that everyone keeps talking about chemistry, but almost half of this team will be new guys, including several starters on defense. Is chemistry not a factor there?
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 9:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
of course, which is why we have some new starters
The roster needed churned a bit and JJ accomplished that. We just have to wait and see if the right chemistry was formed.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Jun 4, 2009 9:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't know if my glasses are Rosey or not...
but when I look at this years Defense this is what I see. Canty is gone and Igor is here. Igor has played for Wade before and his performance should be good from day one. No real learning curve for Igor. Rat and Spears know what’s going on as do Hatcher and Bowen. I am interested to see what Dixon from last year is up to, and how Siavii does if he ends up being the back up guy for Rat. I am happy with the folks on the Boys D-line!
Line backer Zac is gone (I liked him) and he had 94 tackles and 3 passes defensed. Now KB is here bringing 102 tackles and 3 passes defensed from last year. KB has played in Wades defense before so his learning curve should also be small if there is one at all. Spencer will be a 3 down player outside now and what I read about the guy is that he can play (who knows if the guy will ever go to the pro bowl but I do not expect the toilet bowl from him either). Ware, BJ, KB, and Spencer don’t cause me to loose any sleep at night. Justin Rogers and Matt Stewart are vets playing this D with Wade and if they do not make the team this year I think it means that the rookie class at LB are really looking good in training camp to Wade.
D Backs: The corners are pretty good from last year. T New, Big O (no not that big O hehehe), and Jenkins. I think Mickens will be a solid pick that makes the team but may not see the field to much since he plays behind 3 good players. Now safety is a bit of a question from last year. Thong and Bullets are gone. Two of the worst safeties to ever chase a player into the endzone (IMHO). They might have been ok in run defense, but this is a passing league now. Wade has mentioned G Sens has coverage skills from the OTAs so I’ll take that over the Thong/Bullets combo. I am interested to see who will back up G Sens and I am guessing Rookies Hamlin or D Smith. I have nothing to prove that G Sens will be an upgrade over Thong/Bullets but I feel good about it at this time.
So the D has no Rookie starters on it. Butler, Hodge, WilliamsX2, Mickens may see a little playing time as a sub or in certain packages but I do not expect big playing time for the rookies other than special teams.
Special teams is where I think a new coach and rookies motivated to make the team show their hitting ability and maybe their lack of understanding will make for some stressful/exciting moments.
Assume 3 QBs and 3 kickers and a long snapper make the team of 53. That leaves 46 spots left. About half Off. and half Def. Now which 23 to 25 do you think make the Defense?
Igor1, Ratliff2, Spears3, Ware4, James5, Brooking6, Spencer7, GSens8, K Ham9, TNew10, BigO11, Jenkins12 barring injury these 12 seem like locks to me.
Siavii13, JWilliams14 I think these 2 will make the team as long as they don’t fall asleep at the wheel.
Who are the final 10-11? I am picking the defense 6DL(ya its to few but Dixon on practice squad again was my thinking), 10LB, 9DB.
DL: Hatcher15, Bowen16, try to get Dixon on Practice squad again unless he is outstanding in camp then either 15 or 16 gone.
LB: Butler17, BWilliams18, Hodge19, Carp20, Rogers25
DB: ABall21, CBrown22, MHamlin23, DSmith24
I think 2 positions are available that these 3 players will fight for (Carp, Rogers, Dixon).
So there’s my guessing before camp even starts. I am not worried at all with the Boys starting Defense. Injuries can hurt any team, so hope that our coaches make the learning easy for the rookies that see limited action.
by christmasisdraftday on Jun 4, 2009 6:24 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Trust me.
They are rrrroooooooooosssssssseeeeeyyyyyyy.
by Sharksbreath on Jun 4, 2009 7:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You lost me at linebacker.
I don’t really feel like beating out Justin Rogers and Matt Stewart is some terrific indicator of a rookie’s ability. Even if they are such established vets with their 34 tackles combined over the past 2 years.
I’d like someone other than Wade to say that Senabaugh looks good in coverage. The scouting report on him before we signed him sounded a lot like Roy Williams, and Wade telling me he looks like a stud in shorts and a helmet isn’t good enough for me. This is the same guy that thinks a first round bye equals a playoff win.
There are going to be at least 5 new starters on defense next year. Given all the talk about chemistry, etc., I would think this would be a major concern for everyone. I don’t think that any of the new starters has established himself as clearly better than the guy he replaced last year, and the squad will basically be learning how to play together as the year progresses.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 8:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
...really?
Do your own research on Sensabaugh. Go ask a Titans fan. It’s not like that hasn’t been said a thousand times since we picked him up.
by danielt on Jun 4, 2009 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Where?
I did do research on him, I looked at scouting reports from Souts, Inc. I don’t have access to Jaguars games from last year, so I can’t analyze those, so at some point I am going to rely on professional sports writers and analysts that don’t have a vested interest in his success.
Please show me where I can find someone saying how good his coverage skills are, that is not Dallas Cowboys coach or local beat writer.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
By the way,
The Cowboys were number 5 in the league last year in pass defense, and the Jaguars were number 24. Everyone talks about how bad our safeties and Pacman, and Henry were, but they were top 5 in the league against the pass and #8 defense overall. I’m a firm believer that if Roy Williams is in the game, the Cowboys would have won the Ravens game. If they had had less turnovers and better special teams play, they probably would have been a top 5 defense in yardage and points allowed.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
that has more to do with
pass rush than anything else. we were by far the number one pass rush team in the league. the Jags had an anemic pass rush ranked 20th in the league.
part of what got lost in the ravens game is how zach thomas got pushed around. everyone blamed Hamlin for missing a tackle and he should be since he is the last line of defense, but zach thomas was abused as a 3-4 MLB. never got any push. never got around blocks and couldn’t cover.
by CowboysFanatic on Jun 4, 2009 11:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So it doesn't matter who plays safety then.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t think that CowboysFanatic is saying that at all. All he is saying is that the pass rush certainly helped mask some of our personnel issues in the secondary. Unfortunately on the plays where the pass rush did not get there, our safety position was clearly an issue. Now, with Sensabaugh there, there are better coverage skills in the secondary so that our pass rush is not forced to be there all the time. And if you still don’t believe that Sensabaugh is an upgrade, you can look up Prisco’s column on CBS that cited him as one of the top-30 free agents and one of the bright spots on the Jaguars defense. Likewise, I find it kind of ridiculous that you use team stats to define a player’s worth considering that it takes a team to put up good stats. If I did it your way, I guess I would have to assume that every player on the Cowboys defense was a top-ten player at their position since their defense was top-ten. As an avid watcher though, it is easy to see that stats don’t always tell the true story.
There are lots of people that go to church on Sundays to get in touch with God. Personally, my church is on Sunday as well, it just happens to involve watching the Dallas Cowboys.
by Cowboyfan729 on Jun 4, 2009 5:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Prisco is the guy who wrote an article celebrating dirty play?
And gave the Cowboys a D+ on their draft, and implied Roy Williams was not worth what the Cowboys gave up? And jokingly compared James Harrison to the pit bull that attacked and injured his young child, and 2 women? So Sensabaugh is great, but the Cowboys had a horrible draft, and Williams is overrated by the Cowboys? He doesn’t actually say that Sensabaugh is good in coverage, just that he was the best defender on a bad defense. He also had Canty as the #3 best free agent, so that was a bigger loss than everyone is admitting, right?
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 6:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Honestly, I was just answering your question regarding finding someone else outside of Phillips who thought Sensabaugh was a good free agent (although in reflection I see you actually specifically said coverage). I wasn’t necessarily saying that I thought Prisco is a great writer or anything, I was just throwing that out there.
And also, I would like to point out that the Cowboys have some inside knowledge on Sensabaugh since Campo was his coach back at Jacksonville a few years ago. I think that alone should be worth my confidence since if Campo thought he couldn’t do the job, he would not be here. I understand the whole logic of waiting to see it on the field, but for my money I reserve the right to get overexcited considering that I found myself dreading the times we would have to rely on Roy Williams to cover someone.
There are lots of people that go to church on Sundays to get in touch with God. Personally, my church is on Sunday as well, it just happens to involve watching the Dallas Cowboys.
by Cowboyfan729 on Jun 4, 2009 10:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wade Phillips
knows how to pick ’em and knows how to play ’em when it comes to defense. I am excited about this bunch and the impact they will have on both Defense and ST.
I am especially eager to see a safety tandem in the mix. I remember the synergy of Waters/Harris and hope Smith/Mickens can bring the same collective energy to our defensive backfield.
Keep doing what you been doing, keep getting what you been getting.
by OskieOskie on Jun 4, 2009 7:09 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
CBs
on the chart, but a tandem in the secondary still.
Keep doing what you been doing, keep getting what you been getting.
by OskieOskie on Jun 4, 2009 7:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow - I'm excited
Great post, JIm – one of your best. so far…I have a feeling that Williams kid is going to be laying some serious lumber this year. And I think you also described exactly why Ellis was cut.
"The Most Dangerous Man in the world is the one with nothing to lose"
by SaratogaRacing on Jun 4, 2009 8:10 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Has anyone besides Wade cited Sensabaugh's coverage skills?
I’m just curious, because when Dallas signed him, a lot of people thought he was just going to be a special teamer and backup. The scouting reports on him were that he was stiff and deficient in coverage, and a willing tackler but sometimes out of control. Now, a couple of months later, it seems like he has become an Ed Reed/Darren Woodson/Ronnie Lott hybrid that has given Dallas the best secondary in the league.
Other than Wade saying that the guy looks good in shorts and a helmet, what are some indicators that he is the answer at safety? 32 other teams in the league and the only other ones that gave him a look were the Saints, including his previous team. And the Saints clearly didn’t engage in a bidding war for his services. If he is that skilled, why was he only signed to a 1 year deal?
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 8:42 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm with you
Expectations run way too high in the offseason. We haven’t even see the guy play. I’ll stay optimistic that we found an underrated prospect, but if he’s a bust, it should not come as a surprise.
Same with Olshansky — wait till you see him play on the field before automatically assuming he’s an undeniable upgrade over Canty.
Everything's looking up, Milhouse!
by accidental innuendo on Jun 4, 2009 8:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1 Not a hot commodity
If you go back prior to the free agency signing period, when everyone was caterwauling for a big ticket free agent safety, Sensabaugh’s name wasn’t even in the discussion. I don’t think it’s a stretch to say his signing was a surprise. As you point out, the rest of the NFL teams weren’t exactly beating his door down with lucrative long term offers. So forgive me for being a bit skeptical when I keep reading how impressive the guy is. I really hope we found our answer at safety, but I’ll wait to see it on the field.
by Boundforbeach on Jun 4, 2009 9:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Unemployed
When you lose a job do you just take the 1st job, or wait for something that suits you. Campo being here is probably your answer, Players go to the most inviting place it’s not only or always money, but fit. Veteran safety is alway good in case the young guys don’t play as hoped. Davis,Williams not here, Watkins ,Sensabuagh get a chance but if a rookie can beat them out with good play is it a bad thing? Every once in a while finding a player that is projected to help as a STeamer ends up a starter.
I hope the youngsters play well above expectations, because having a veteran backups is better than having a bench full inexperienced youth. Same goes for the OLine at least find out. Procter doesn’t fill me with confidence.
by psychodad on Jun 4, 2009 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sensi used the Hamlin model for moneymaking
Go to the Cowboys on a meager contract, have a good year and get PAID!
This is win win for him and us.
The inherent vice of capitalism is the unequal sharing of blessings; the inherent virtue of socialism is the equal sharing of miseries.
-Winston Churchill
by HudBaby on Jun 4, 2009 10:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
only if you let him go
Can’t keep overpaying just because your team makes a player a pro-bowler
by psychodad on Jun 5, 2009 12:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He had some problems with the law.
I’m also very skeptical of him, but I don’t think that it was a significant downgrade in safety play.. if you can actually go down from Keith Davis,Pat Watkins, and Roy Williams.
Even if he isn’t a longterm solution, Dallas wasn’t ever in a position in the draft to get any of the upper tier safeties(if there were any real upper tier safeties), so I think it was the right move.
At least Sensi is still young enough in his career that maybe he is actually progressing. I guess we’ll see.
it was weird, I... I mean you probably didn't hear about it because I went under the name of Mike Honcho. But I just wanted you to know that. If you can hear me, if it got into your brain somehow. That I spread my buttcheeks as Mike Honcho.
by AirforceBat on Jun 4, 2009 8:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Driving w/out a liscense
Lock the doors and hide the chillun’
by psychodad on Jun 5, 2009 12:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The part about Sensabaugh that makes me feel good are that two of the coaches on the staff
decamillis and campo have first hand knowledge of this guy; and considering the energy from decamillis and the good results that campo had with the rookie cb’s last year. I think that WP got good info on what this guy can do, and everyone must have agreed that he is a step up from RW, if this guy is a hard worker those two coaches would know. I believe we also had a Jag fan who had come on this site to say that he is a good player and one of the few bright spots on their secondary last year.
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
by cowboy78 on Jun 4, 2009 8:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Can I see the link to your
scouting report on Sensabaugh?
"He has a peculiar felicity of expression." John Adams
by Jim Vance on Jun 4, 2009 9:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The thing about Sensabaugh
Is in 07 he beat out Donovan Darius for the starting spot before getting injured and last year was the best player in Jax’s backfield, and his 4 INTs would’ve tied Newman for the lead on our team so he will be an upgrade in coverage, the only part I’m worried about this team is Tackling overall, and injuries.
We get those 2 down we are still around a 12 win team.
"We play to win the game" - Herm Edwards
by nicholas.rodriguez on Jun 4, 2009 9:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow. He beat out Darius. That guy was pretty good.
I remember the Jags having a righteous D in 07. Drafted them in FF last year, and they sucked for me.
Is it too early to ask what round I should aim for Felix in my fantasy football league?
by Aaron Novinger on Jun 4, 2009 3:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah...
They had some major pass rush problems, Marcus Stroud leaving to the Bills had a significant impact.
it was weird, I... I mean you probably didn't hear about it because I went under the name of Mike Honcho. But I just wanted you to know that. If you can hear me, if it got into your brain somehow. That I spread my buttcheeks as Mike Honcho.
by AirforceBat on Jun 4, 2009 3:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So, we should play him at CB, maybe.
Interceptions are not necessarily an indicator of great cover ability. Isn’t that what we always say about Newman, since he consistently has less interceptions than other elite corners? Jacques Reeves had 4 INTs last year, so does that mean he was as good as Newman? That’s also more than Jenkins, Henry, Scandrick, Hamlin, and Pacman had combined, so clearly it was a huge mistake letting him go, right?
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 4:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's ESPN Insider, but I'll copy and paste it.
http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/fa?playerId=8571
Sensabaugh is a good-sized safety who has worked himself up into a part-time starting role. He led the team with four interceptions and was fourth on the team with 55 tackles. He is a good athlete with adequate long speed and marginal change-of-direction quickness. He is a bit stiff in the hips and is inconsistent when it comes to breaking down and making open-field tackles. He has a tendency to come in out of control and will miss some tackles in space, but does play with good leverage on the ball. He has improved his play recognition skills, but still looks like he is thinking more than just reacting. He is more effective the closer he lines up to the line of scrimmage and can struggle when playing a deep Cover 2 zone. He is not a natural ball hawk, but can make a play on the ball when it is thrown off target. He has been a core special teams player and is more than willing when it comes to inserting himself into run lanes to deliver the blow. He is the type of player who wouldn’t be able to start for just any team, but can fill in as a starter when called upon.
Grade: 59 – Good Backup : This is a player who is really on the bubble and only starts because of a deficiency at the position. … He lacks complete overall skills, and although he will battle, he will hinder his team’s ability to play at a championship level if he is forced to be in the starting lineup consistently over a 16-game season. Teams don’t mind having him on the roster but are always looking to upgrade.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 9:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Len Pasquarelli :
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3967741
“If Sensabaugh, who is a physical player but lacks some coverage skills, doesn’t win the starting job alongside free safety Ken Hamlin, he will be a solid reserve safety. Dallas has very little experience at safety besides Hamlin.”
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 9:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks
I did read those. So he’s rated at 59, I wonder where his predecessor would be rated?
Anyway you look at it, Sensabaugh is an upgrade over Thong. No, I’m not claiming he’s Ed Reed, but he’s a signifigant improvement over what we had back there.
Now, just for clarity, here is the next category rating which according to this scout, Sensi missed by one point.
60-69: Average Starter
A valuable roster player but not a dominant player against the better players he faces on a weekly basis. … Gives great effort and teams are glad to have him, but he may or may not go to the next level.
"He has a peculiar felicity of expression." John Adams
by Jim Vance on Jun 4, 2009 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was going to put that, too.
I was going to put the 60-69 level since he is right beneath it and a young player. If nothing else the guy is just solid. I don’t think he’s going to be a star by any means, but I think he’ll be a lot like Anthony Henry was at CB, just solid and dependable. Will get his name called more often for good plays than bad, but either way, won’t get it called too often.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Roy is rated 69.
He is a good run-support player who has solid quickness and reactions near the line of scrimmage. He lacks top reactions in coverage and they will replace him in certain passing situations. Against the run, he is quick to react and is aggressive with his path to the ball. He has linebacker size with good quickness through traffic. He does a good job slipping contact with the ability to quickly diagnose and use good acceleration. He’s a tough player for linemen to climb and secure a block in space on. He has good quickness to run in front of oncoming blocks. As a tackler, he closes fast and physical. He has good short-area burst to run through ball carriers. He is physical on arrival when he has the target lined up for him. He usually takes good angles and he makes a lot of plays with his lateral quickness. In coverage, he is effective versus tight ends in man-to-man. He has good size and speed to match up without losing separation at the breaks. He is inconsistent with deeper zone reads and responsibilities. He usually plays up near the line of scrimmage, even when they have him on the field in dime personnel. His deep-ball reactions are inconsistent and he lacks the burst to flip and accelerate off the hash. His aggressiveness and desire for the big hit will cause him to be out of position. He is a tough, physical and strong safety who needs to be accounted for in the box.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 9:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Roy Williams is rated at 69?
Wow, that would explain the rush of teams to sign him after he was released. <sarcasm here)
I wonder why the Jags didn’t sign him to replace Sensabaugh?
"He has a peculiar felicity of expression." John Adams
by Jim Vance on Jun 4, 2009 10:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well,
He generated about the same interest as Sensabaugh. I wonder why the Jags didn’t just resign him.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gregg Williams was his DC in Jacksonville.
And is now the DC in New Orleans. So basically, both guys only drew interest from their former coordinators and are signed to risk free deals. That’s my point, though, whether Roy is better than him or not, he definitely doesn’t sound like a clear upgrade.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Actually..
Sensabaugh got more interest than Roy. What other teams expressed any interest in Roy?
The Jags wanted to resign GS being considered one of the few bright spots on the Jags defense but with his bad press (from carrying guns and driving with suspended license) decided to let him test free agency.
"He has a peculiar felicity of expression." John Adams
by Jim Vance on Jun 4, 2009 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What other teams expressed any interest in Sensabaugh?
He just had more coordinators working for other teams than Roy, but the only teams that were looking at him were the Saints and Cowboys. His DC from last year is now with the Saints and his Assistant Head Coach and Secondary Coach from the previous year is now with the Cowboys. And he only managed a 1 year deal in his free agency test, just like Roy.
Whatever the reason was, the Jags didn’t resign him and brought in his replacement before he signed with anyone else.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Three times as many teams
interested in Sensi than Roy, including his current team at the time.
Having your recent coaches express interest in you is my opinion, a testament to your worth as a player. Ken Hamlin signed a 1 year deal when he came over from Seattle, and got an extension based on his play. That’s just smart moves on Stephen Jones part. Look, if you are convinced the Cowboys would have been better or equal with Roy Williams back there, I can’t convince you otherwise.
I can’t buy into that scouting assessment of Roy Williams either. He was a real liability back there and I’m confident that Sensabaugh is better. It will be interesting to see who has a better season. My money is not on Thong.
"He has a peculiar felicity of expression." John Adams
by Jim Vance on Jun 4, 2009 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Obviously the Cowboys are better than the Bengals.
I mean, last year with Keith Davis, Williams for a couple of games, Pat Watkins and whoever else, the Cowboys were 5th in the league in pass defense. The Bengals were 15th. The Jaguars were 24th.
The Jags weren’t interested in him, because they didn’t even offer him a contract. So the Saints and the Cowboys. Both teams had former coaches on them, which is the exact same interest as Roy Williams got. Who knows, if Stewart had been with Eagles right now, Roy might have gotten a look there. But if it’s a testament to Sensabaugh, it’s also a testament to Roy, right?
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 11:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And the Jaguars had every opportunity to resign him.
Prior to him becoming a free agent. It’s not a certainty that Roy would have been released this year had he not asked for it, either.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 11:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
From J-ville
From a Jacksonville site;
A possible lucrative free-agency payday for Jaguars safety Gerald Sensabaugh might have taken a hit Tuesday, when police said he was arrested for driving on a suspended license in his hometown of Kingsport, Tenn.
An unrestricted free agent whose contract expires on Feb. 27, Sensabaugh – a fifth-round pick in 2005 – started 13 games last season, made 70 tackles and had four interceptions.
Because of depth issues in the secondary, it’s believed the Jaguars had hoped to re-sign Sensabaugh before the Feb. 27 start of free agency.
But, according to sources within the organization, signing Sensabaugh could be a tall order because he is believed to be seeking a contract in line with what the league’s top safeties are making. It appears the Jaguars will let Sensabaugh test the free-agent market.
"He has a peculiar felicity of expression." John Adams
by Jim Vance on Jun 4, 2009 11:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's believed that they hoped...
That’s not exactly the cold, hard facts. He wasn’t offered a contract to return, they signed his replacement just hours after free agency began, and Sensabaugh hardly got a contract in line with the top safeties. In fact, Considine signed a 2 year/$3 mil contract with the Jags, so it seems like if they Sensabaugh was worth the risk, they would have paid him the slightly more money that he got from the Cowboys.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 11:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think we have to remember that Wade runs a unique Cover Man 3-4.
Because sacks and QB pressure is the focus of the defensive strategy, the strong safety needs to be able to back up the CBs as much as he needs to come up in run support.
This is why Roy Williams simply could not fit the scheme and Sensabaugh is better suited in Wade’s 3-4 and/or 4-6.
Where the old Dallas defenses would make a LB into a S, this defense is better suited to convert a S to a LB. Coverage responsibilities are a must because at least 2 guys will blitz every play, even if that means the DBs cover deep while and end, OLB, or even NT drop in a short zone or depending on the playcall, man.
Is it too early to ask what round I should aim for Felix in my fantasy football league?
by Aaron Novinger on Jun 4, 2009 3:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So Roy was right.
His problem really was that he’s a 4-3 safety and not a 3-4 safety?
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 4:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He usually takes good angles and he makes a lot of plays with his lateral quickness.
I’m kind of wondering when this was originally written.
If there is an opposite of Roy Williams, it’s that he took good angles.
The past three years he hasn’t even been anything more than average against the run, often taking bad angles and missing or getting or almost getting horsetackle drawn against him.
it was weird, I... I mean you probably didn't hear about it because I went under the name of Mike Honcho. But I just wanted you to know that. If you can hear me, if it got into your brain somehow. That I spread my buttcheeks as Mike Honcho.
by AirforceBat on Jun 4, 2009 4:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He led the team in solo tackles in 2007.
So he had to have been getting some angles right. I think he makes those tackles against the Ravens if he’s in there, personally.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 4:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Possibly
Or he might have just thrown his shoulder out there trying to lay the big hit and then they go anyways. Which he did… often.
it was weird, I... I mean you probably didn't hear about it because I went under the name of Mike Honcho. But I just wanted you to know that. If you can hear me, if it got into your brain somehow. That I spread my buttcheeks as Mike Honcho.
by AirforceBat on Jun 5, 2009 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He may fit this scheme....
better than the one at Jax…if he can get 4 INT’s and 55 tackles on a depleted defense, I have high hopes for what he can do on Wade’s high octane.
by TheCowboyFan on Jun 4, 2009 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
All negativity aside
It seems those who are actually viewing Sensabaugh’s play are saying some pretty good things, now aren’t they? Frankly, to be a fan takes a certain amount of faith. I’ve never really understood a fan of a team sitting on the sidelines telling everyone who’s not listening why they won’t succeed. Sounds like you’d fit right in on the DMN blog. Oh, there’s a fair chance things won’t work out like they should, (see the Patriots the last two seasons) but it still makes most folks wonder who you really are when you profess your fanhood while trying to rationalize why they won’t win.
Now tell us for the umteenth time why Dallas won’t win.
Nobody in football should be called a genius. A genius is a guy like Norman Einstein.
Joe ThEEsman
by SB Six on Jun 4, 2009 8:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You're right.
I guess I should realistically predict 53 pro bowlers and 19-0, coach of the year, rookie of the year, MVP, OPOY, DPOY, and comeback player of the year, or I am not a true fan.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 10:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Baked, you've made some great points in this thread...
But if you really want to present the “realist” side of Sensabaugh, it would include comments on both sides of the issue. Some of the scouting reports make all of us nervous – but it’s hard to ignore other reports that offer another side to the story.
Intuition says he’ll be better than Roy in coverage. You know, that intuition that comes from year’s of watching him trail someone as they hit the end-zone.
I agree on the “Ravens runs wouldn’t have happened with Roy in there” theory… but if you listen to your own scouting reports, they say he’s good in run support. Which way you want it?
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jun 4, 2009 10:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"he's good in run support" = Sensabaugh
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jun 4, 2009 10:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hope he will be awesome.
But based on what i have read, I don’t see how he’s the clear upgrade that everyone is making him out to be, that’s all. I’m just saying that everyone acts like we upgraded at 5 positions on the D, but the truth is we basically traded even up at all of those spots, and now these guys have to learn to play together. Of course I am always hoping for the best results. I would love to have to tell you guys that I was wrong.
I figure there are enough people on here touting how great he is. I’m just showing the other side of the coin.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 5, 2009 12:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The defense is something
i’m excited about for next season. Definitely and if Sensabaugh proves to be as good as they say he is, we have solved our safety problem.
"Aw Shucks" - Wade Phillips
by MrMinority on Jun 4, 2009 8:59 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Alright in 07 we were 13-3...last year we underacheived.
IMO we are still better than that 13-3 team and now are better than our injury ravaged 9-7 team
QB- Romo, Kitna, McGee to Romo, BJ - Better
RB- Julius, Barber to Barber, Felix, Choice -—- Much better
WR- TO, Crayton, Hurd, Austin, Stanback to Roy Williams, Crayton, Austin, Hurd, Stanback -— I will say we did get a lil worse than our 07 WR corps but I’m sure Roy can match 08 TO of barely 1000 yards (1052 to be exact) and 10 TDs
TE- Witten, Fasano to Witten, Bennett -— Better
Oline- Flo, Kosier, Gurode, Davis, Columbo to Flo, Holland (Kosier isn’t healthy yet), Gurode, Davis, Columbo -— Wash if Flo can play as good as he is.
Dline- Canty, Ferguson, Spears to Igor, Rat, Spears -- Rat is better than Fergi, Igor is at least a wash w/ Canty, me thinks he will be better
LB- Ware, Ellis, James, Ayodele to Ware, Spencer, James, Brooking -— Brooking is better than Ayodele and our LB corp is better solely on how Ware has progressed so much better
CB- TNew, A Henry, Jacques Reeves, Nate Jones to TNew, Jenkins, Orlando, Mickens -- Now having Henry or jacques out there alone makes this unit better
S- Hamlin, Thong to Hamlin, Sensi -—- Coverage (much better) Run support ( We will see)
And even though our division has the most intelligent Front Offices and everything they do is soo perfect we are still a 12-4 team at least
"We play to win the game" - Herm Edwards
by nicholas.rodriguez on Jun 4, 2009 9:16 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
we are better in certain phases than the 07 team
Defensively, we’re better. No doubt about it except in terms of linebacker depth. At cb, we are far better. At safety, we’re at worst the same. On the dline, maybe a tad worse but i like igor.
The reason i dont know if this team is better is because the oline did not look nearly as good in 08 as it did in 07. We are probably worse along the line due to aging, and theres the possibility for disaster with flo really getting up there and kosier just coming off a major injury last year. I don’t think anyone can definitively say our receivers are worse this year than 07 – we will have to wait for the season to start. We are certainly better at rb, probably better at te, i think romo is better too, but that relies on him regaining his form pre-injury. Cause post injury, he was not an elite qb for us. But overall i don’t think this offense compares to the 07 version because the line just won’t be as good. We had probably the best pass blocking line in the league in 07, at worst top 5.
But I HIGHLY doubt we go 13-3 again. Why? We kinda hit a perfect story in 07. There really wasn’t too much competition in the division. The Giants got hot starting with that week 17 game against the pats. The Eagles and redskins weren’t real good. And we played the nfc north in what was, for the most part, a down year, and the afc east which outside the pats was a joke. The second best team on our schedule was the packers and the third was the giants before their dline became flat out dominant, lets put it that way.
by foyesboys on Jun 4, 2009 3:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I love what we did on defense this offseason
IMO, Igor and Brooking for Canty and Thomas is really a wash, maybe just a very slight upgrade.
There is no question in my mind that Jenkins or Scandrick and Sensabaugh will be an upgrade over Henry, Pacrat and RW/Davis.
The draftees are all playmakers who love to attack and in a couple of years, they’ll fit in this defense very nicely.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Jun 4, 2009 9:26 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
No More Excuses...
The beleaguered BStew is gone… so is that mole Ellis. Olshansky might be an upgrade and the defense is poised for a breakout season.
Now, can Wade be demoted to defensive coordinator? Tex wouldn’t waste another year with Mouse Phillips miscast as the lead dog.
by Montecito Tex on Jun 4, 2009 11:41 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Please indulge me...
who exactly was Ellis a mole for?
it was weird, I... I mean you probably didn't hear about it because I went under the name of Mike Honcho. But I just wanted you to know that. If you can hear me, if it got into your brain somehow. That I spread my buttcheeks as Mike Honcho.
by AirforceBat on Jun 4, 2009 12:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tex doesn't even know what the word means
He probably just thought it sounded cool
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Jun 4, 2009 12:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought we ignoring Tex. Better yet, for you Star Trek fans...
let’s give him the rite of “Discommendation” where is barred and declared a “non-person” in the society :)
by Boundforbeach on Jun 4, 2009 1:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Haha
Well I usually do, but I am really curious on who Ellis was a mole for.
it was weird, I... I mean you probably didn't hear about it because I went under the name of Mike Honcho. But I just wanted you to know that. If you can hear me, if it got into your brain somehow. That I spread my buttcheeks as Mike Honcho.
by AirforceBat on Jun 4, 2009 1:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
the Tuna
Don't believe everything you think.
Your causes are cute!!!
by stoproyce on Jun 4, 2009 2:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Aaaaah
And there lies my main question, why would he be a mole for Bill Parcells?
He wasn’t drafted by him, he reluctantly had to switch to a 3-4 with him, so there isn’t any real connection between him and Parcells besides the fact that he just happened to be there when he coached.
I’m trying to think, if I’m in Tex world.. who is Ellis being a mole for?
it was weird, I... I mean you probably didn't hear about it because I went under the name of Mike Honcho. But I just wanted you to know that. If you can hear me, if it got into your brain somehow. That I spread my buttcheeks as Mike Honcho.
by AirforceBat on Jun 4, 2009 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Duh, for Jessica and Papa Simpson
To be fair though, I’m pro Tex
Everything's looking up, Milhouse!
by accidental innuendo on Jun 4, 2009 2:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The biggest hole that hasn't really been answerred is
the nickle MLB position. we have tried to get a player replacement for every position we have players let go. We have upgraded the first 2 downs MLB by getting rid of zach thomas, who was pushed around a lot in run defense. we have upgraded the SS position with sensebaugh, we have traded for Roy Williams in anticipation of letting TO go, we have groomed Austin and Hurd to step into a starting role, we have drafted for ellis’s replacement (3rd down pass rusher), which btw, could make spencer a 3 down player since he can defend the run and rush the passer. we have upgraded the back up QB position. all, except for nickle MLB position.
we are banking on Carpenter who we wanted to trade badly and has been a failure to date. we drafted williams knowing in advance that it will take him at least a couple of years before he can contribute specially in pass defense and covering RBs and TEs which we know he really can’t do. Apparantley we hope Stephen Hodge can take over the position by mid season.
that position more than anything else worries me, and I would hate to scream because we can’t stop opposition from completing 3rd down passes to RBs and TEs because we can’t cover them and turn it into first downs.
by CowboysFanatic on Jun 4, 2009 11:50 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I'd rather....
Expect them to suck and be surprised than expect them to be what they’re supposed to be and then get depressed.
We have to becaome better in turnovers and penalties. Romo has to take care of the ball, our conrerbacks have to turn for the ball so they can get a pick or at least make the opposing QB think twice before throwing in their direction and the O-Line has to stop the false starts….that will get you 12 wins, can they do it? dunno
by ManTab on Jun 4, 2009 11:57 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
To me this sums up PERFECTLY the pessimists:
" I’d rather….
Expect them to suck and be surprised than expect them to be what they’re supposed to be and then get depressed."
… but to give you credit, you at least think it’s possible to get 12 wins… far more than a few of the extremes here!
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jun 4, 2009 3:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
that quote makes no sense to me
How can a Cowboys fan not be depressed by thinking they will suck this year?? The better word to use would have been disappointed.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on Jun 4, 2009 3:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Live & Die by the O-Line
Everyone is putting all the emphises on the lack of T.O. and IF Roy can bring it. Also the defensive backfield.
Dallas had the most problems last year IMO because of the Offensive Line breakdown. How many of us last year kept writing in these posts that if Romo had time. If the run blocking was better. If only Kosier wasn’t hurt, etc.
IF this offensive line can stay healthy and Flo can step up his game this year like he was a few years ago, this team will be hard to stop offensively. Romo will eat up DB’s. The O-line will wear the defense down with the run game. This is my hopeful thinking. Stay healthy O-line!
by torchindefenses on Jun 4, 2009 11:57 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Yet they return basically the same unit.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 12:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well the same unit,
but a healthy same unit. Kosier goes down again and it’s anyone’s guess as to what happens.
When did I become a Cowboy fan? When my mom told me I was.
by GunsUp on Jun 4, 2009 12:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The same unit when healthy rolled that running game right up the deadskins gut when
we had Koiser to that lineup; Montrae wasn’t a bad fillin until he got hurt his 2nd game in.
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
by cowboy78 on Jun 4, 2009 12:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They ran well last year.
They had 4.3 yards per carry last year, and were better the second half of the season. But they also threw the ball more in the second half of the season. I think the problem was as much play calling as the line.
In the last 5 games, they ran 111 times for 490 yards. About 22 times per game for 4.4 ypc. But they threw the ball 40 times per game.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jun 4, 2009 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
this is the same O-line that was heralded as the reason for our 13-3 season...
throw in a few injuries, and suddenly they are horrible? the media-created pessimism about the Cowboys can be summed up in three simple words: RASH OF INJURIES
Last year that bug bit … in 07 it didn’t … hard to deny the difference.
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jun 4, 2009 3:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
the oline was a large part of it
but keep in mind, we really didn’t play many elite Ds in 07. The AFC East was a joke, neither Chicago, Minnesota, Detroit, or Green Bay with Kampman and woodson out (I believe) were that great. The Eagles got to us 1 game and the giants Dline really didn’t pick it up and become an elite unit till right around the playoffs.
Last year, we played the Giants, Ravens and Steelers, and the cardinals were absolutely a great pass rushing team when they wanted to be. Thats 5 games out of 16, and they account for a larger % of the sacks i believe. While injuries did absolultely play a role, I think the easy schedule masked some deficiencies in 07.
by foyesboys on Jun 4, 2009 3:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you're probably right... so 13 was too high
… but a case can also be made easily for why 9 was too low
11 is starting to feel better and better to me.
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jun 4, 2009 10:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
Injuries got to us, too many starting with backups,hurting STeams and WR depth. Newman wasn’t right all season,Williams-Watkins-Kosier-Romo-McBriar.
Looking @ the list that explains 2or3 games
by psychodad on Jun 5, 2009 12:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Arizona game killed our season.
Then they went on to win the NFC champ, so I guess we just got beat like in ’07.
Is it too early to ask what round I should aim for Felix in my fantasy football league?
by Aaron Novinger on Jun 7, 2009 12:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
I think they pretty much will determine our season. Our weapons are good enough, if Romo plays like he did pre arizona injury and not post arizona injury, we’re fien there. We’re set at rb and te. But if these guys don’t block, none of that matters.
And as BPS said, we return the same unit. We havent succesfully developed oline talent in like a decade.
by foyesboys on Jun 4, 2009 12:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
2 out of 5
Flozell + Gurode -Man I thought there would be more, Looked back even further FA got us good, The cap choked the ability to keep some talented OLinemen Gogan,Stone,Hegamin couldn’t even keep the LS Hellestrae
Larry Allen (almost forgot)
by psychodad on Jun 5, 2009 12:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Stepnoski for a year or two also.
Is it too early to ask what round I should aim for Felix in my fantasy football league?
by Aaron Novinger on Jun 7, 2009 12:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
IMHO
the most improvement will come from replacing Stewart as the Defesive cooridinator and the improvement of special teams play with the hireing of the new coach.
Most of the bitchers and whiners are gone which should improve team chenistry.
This should result in at least a one game improvement over last year and a trip to the playoffs wher anything can happen.
by TCB Orange Dino on Jun 4, 2009 12:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Turnovers, turnovers, turnovers -- that is the key
One constant in the write ups on our new rookie class (and Sensabaugh) is that they have high sack totals and/or they get turnovers. The best way for the Cowboys to improve this year is to go from near-worst-in-the-NFL turnover ratio to one that is at least positive.
Improving by 14 or 15 net turnovers will win us at least three more games. If we don’t improve that much, expect a 1-2 game improvement.
by VAfan on Jun 4, 2009 1:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I wouldn't count on the rookies
They can become very good but in their first year theyre just rookies and will make rookie mistakes.
by ManTab on Jun 4, 2009 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rookie Mistakes
Ware mistaked himself into 8 sacks, Canty+Spears played better than expected. While Jones+Choice proved they can do the same things in the NFL as college, If these picks can do what they did in college FF,sacks,Int’s and contribute on STeams. With Hamlin’s play last year one of the
young safeties had better ready.
Watkins the time is now!
by psychodad on Jun 5, 2009 12:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
I like Raf’s theory about 4 draftees producing equals a success. (not a direct quote, but close enough)
Four producers will be tough this year. Three is about the max I see: Buehler (most impact), JWill, Hodge, and Smith/Mickens (can’t get a read on who’s better)
The OLBs will have a tough time getting PT not because of them, but because of the starters.
Brewster is the future, but will have a tough time cracking the lineup for the same reasons.
Phillips may make the team and be used like a fullback.
Johnson will have a tough time making the team.
Hamlin is the wildcard. I hope he’s a stud.
The inherent vice of capitalism is the unequal sharing of blessings; the inherent virtue of socialism is the equal sharing of miseries.
-Winston Churchill
by HudBaby on Jun 5, 2009 12:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is true but with the exception of Choice they were all 1st rounders.
I never like to put RBs into the group that rookies struggle because good runners are instinctive. You got it or you dont.
Its just not a good idea to count on them. If they do produce, thats great but ,if you expect or rely on them you usually wind up mad at them. thats not fair to a rookie.
I predict future happiness for Americans if they can prevent the goverment from wasting the labors of the people under the pretense of taking care of them.
by squidlo97 on Jun 7, 2009 1:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yea
Hopefully sensi can provide s0olid enough play that he and hamlin can actually make plays on the ball because there is no true liability in our secondary.
Offensively…Romo is just ridiculously fumble prone. I truly hope he improves in this regard, by just tucking it when things get really ridiculous, but tucking it has NEVER prevented him from fumbling. His quick release generaly limits the number of hits/sacks he takes, which is a good thing. But I think the most likely way we improve our turnovers offensively is for better oline protection so romo doesn’t take the hits he did agaisnt the great defenses last year.
by foyesboys on Jun 4, 2009 3:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree on the turnovers theory ... and penalties... and also injuries...
If we can improve just a little in each of these categories (and there’s nowhere but up to go!) … then that alone should account for a game or two improvement.
The add in the improvement at several positions (TO being the exception …) and this team is suddenly a contender.
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jun 4, 2009 3:15 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Bla, bla, bla, banter and boast, gotta love a blog and...
gotta have a love, hate relationship with the off-season. While we all hate the the long wait for the breif few weeks of our beloved game some of us are optimistic, or possibly just being a Micky Spag’s type, Cowboys can do no wrong, rose-colored glasses wearing Homer about the new talent, scheme and how we are going to be much better; still others of us show a somewhat less optimistic outlook , call it it pessimism or being realistic we wear a darker tent lens on our shades, while we also hope for the best, the star has to shine bright before we see the light and are willing to hope for a sunnier day.
It’s takes all kinds and it’s all good!
by bad knees on Jun 4, 2009 3:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
It's all good :P
I like to rip on the pessimism, though much of it contains an element of truth.
It bugs me that the pessimists think they have some corner of the “realism” market. Romo detractors are the worst offenders, IMHO… and anyone that ignores the injury bug that hit us last year is hardly being realistic.
We have two very different seasons to reflect on right now … I prefer to see the potential of ‘07 as my guideline. In fact, there were numerous bright spots to ’08 — especially for this Defense. Even the UGLY Eagles game to finish the year has potential to focus the team’s determination for this year… history in this regard is on my side – teams rebound from tough seasons all the time.
So my optimism isn’t quite as surreal as the pessimists would like to paint it.
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jun 4, 2009 11:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sensabaugh... world beater
There are several posts earlier about our expectations of our free agents. Suddenly, players who were on the street for weeks without offers are the unquestioned answer for all of our DB woes. (Fans who believe this => you know who you are)
Please, let’s not forget that the several posts here claiming that Zack was pushed around and couldn’t get out of his own way, etc. are probably the same posters who were saying how utterly dominant our shiny new MLB in ‘08 was going to save the world for us. Hell, I even remember Mickey Spags (yep, that homer) saying how awesome he looked in the pre-season and I’m sure we all loved to hear this slop. (me included).
Let’s take a page from the Tuna and please put away the anointing oil for Sensaubagh (and Olshasky) and be be real about what he is. Sure, let’s all HOPE he’s Ronnie Lott but let’s expect him to be something mildly better than Keith Davis or (a healthy) Pat Watkins.
by Eagles suck on Jun 4, 2009 7:37 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Is it crazy to still be pulling for a Pat Watkins break-out year?
everyone has written this guy off … but EaglesSuck, your “healthy” addition to Watkin’s name reminds me of the potential he has shown at times.
I’ll try to keep the rose-colored comments to a minimum, but is a good Watkins year out of the question?
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jun 4, 2009 11:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
me too!
@ least this year nobody is really in front of him, Same with Spencer+Carpenter. The free agents salaries won’t prohibit them from starting this year. Watkins is one of the few I’d like to see more of.
6’5" w/wheels coming out of FSU was a top FS in the draft. If he can get over the injury thing he’ll be OK.
by psychodad on Jun 4, 2009 11:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think...
Watkins will be cut honestly. He’s had plenty of opportunities, he didn’t have anyone in front of him for most of last year.
it was weird, I... I mean you probably didn't hear about it because I went under the name of Mike Honcho. But I just wanted you to know that. If you can hear me, if it got into your brain somehow. That I spread my buttcheeks as Mike Honcho.
by AirforceBat on Jun 5, 2009 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rooks on D
If they get as much play from this class as the last class of draftpicks
Ball,Brown,Hawkins,Octavien,Stewart+ 1 OL are gone, I can see them replacing the bottomof the roster with draft picks, Would you miss them or is there a player that catches your eye? Nope, Last year this time Ball,Brown,Proctor all got their
shots and didn’t impress.
The grinder needs new meat!
by psychodad on Jun 4, 2009 11:33 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Proctor
I hope like heck Brewster can snap the ball so we can cut proctor.
I got so sick of the Iggles pushing him 8 feet into the backfield every play.
The inherent vice of capitalism is the unequal sharing of blessings; the inherent virtue of socialism is the equal sharing of miseries.
-Winston Churchill
by HudBaby on Jun 5, 2009 12:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
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