Big D Stands for Defense: Cowboys 24, Eagles 0
by Rafael Vela on Jan 3, 2010 10:36 PM CST
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Who's a cupcake now?
Wade Phillips' defense will eat your cupcakes, and your lunch. They'll drink your whiskey, sleep in your bed and huff and puff and blow down any offense in their path. They capped a superb second half of the season with their second consecutive shutout, blanking the Eagles 24-0, setting up a rematch next weekend, same Bat stadium, with the same Bat-tered Eagles.
The manner of the victory gives the Cowboys a psychological edge heading into episode III. The Cowboys simply out-muscled the Eagles. They made them one-dimensional, holding the run-shy Marty Morhinweg's backs to 29 rushing yards on only eight carries. When the Eagles passed, Dallas was again content to rush four men on the majority of downs.
Phillips knows Philadelphia lives on big pass plays, and his D took those plays away. Dallas kept two safeties deep, ensuring there was somebody to clean up when one of the speedy Eagles receivers shook coverage or broke a tackle. Dallas wasn't flawless. It blew coverages on several big plays, but the sure-tackling Ken Hamlin and Gerald Sensabaugh limited the damage.
Dallas also had some good fortune. Philly had chances for two big plays early on, once when DeSean Jackson beat Terence Newman on a post and second time when Jeremy Maclin lost Mike Jenkins on a crossing route. On both occassions, a skittish Donovan McNabb misfired. McNabb seemed to feel a rush when none existed. He never settled in the pocket. He overthrow deep passes and was regularly late and behind on crossing routes. The Dallas rush got inside his head and McNabb will need to evict them and quickly if he hopes to avoid a three-game sweep.
The defense has a weakness, one that has been visible for all to see. None of its inside linebackers are very good in coverage. Brent Celek burned Bobby Carpenter on deep ins; DeSean Jackson ran a shallow cross against Brady James and ran away from James for 32 yards. The Saints and Chargers used these patterns to beat these two and Keith Brooking last month.
That appears to be the only major flaw in a team which continues to improve as the season progresses:
| Games | Points against average |
| 1-4 | 19.5 |
| 5-8 | 18.5 |
| 9-12 | 15.25 |
| 13-16 | 9.25 |
| Season | 15.6 |
That final quarter season included matchups against the NFC's top-seeded Saints, the 2nd AFC seed Chargers and the 6th NFC seed Eagles. They finished the regular season ranked 1st, 4th and 5th in scoring offense.
On offense, a late infusion of speed and shiftiness has revived an offense which scored just 13 total points in games 9 and 10. The Felix Jones Experience continues its breakout. As predicted a couple of weeks ago, we finally saw Felix pass Marion Barber as the Cowboys main back:
- Barber -- 14 carries, 1 reception -- 15 touches, 105 combined yards;
- Jones -- 15 carries, 3 receptions -- 18 touches, 94 combined yards
Jones capped his career-high workload with a 49 yard touchdown scamper up the left sideline off a rocket pitch play, where Tony Romo faked an dive to the fullback before pitching to Jones, who easily outraced the Eagles DE to the corner. Jones' day could have been much, much better: he had a 24 yard pitch negated by a needless holding penalty against Deon Anderson, and lost a 22 yard screen when Andre Gurode was flagged for holding, after Jones was ten yards past him. Look for Jones to get the majority of backfield touches going forward.
When Tony Romo looked up field, he had a wealth of targets. Miles Austin posted a much stronger game against the Eagles' corners, catching six balls for 90 yards. Patrick Crayton was a severe mismatch for Eagles nickel corner Joselio Hansen, catching four balls for another 99 yards and Dallas' second touchdown.
In the middle of the field, Jason Witten overwhelmed middle linebacker Jeremiah Trotter and strong safety Quintin Mikel.
Philadelphia's mid-field weaknesses create a problem for DC Sean McDermott next week. He blitzed heavily in game one, and got decent coverage in his secondary, until Austin beat his secondary late. The Eagles secondary has sagged badly late season and yesterday McDermott called a lot fewer blitzes, to fortify his secondary. The extra defenders didn't help. Will McDermott go after Tony Romo again next week? With weak covering linebackers and free safeties, he may have no choice.
Notes:
-- The 15.6 points-per-game is the lowest by a Cowboys defense since Dave Campo's '96 unit posted the same average. It was last bested by Butch Davis' '94 defense. The '78 and '93 defenses are the only others to better Wade's warriors in a 16-game season.
-- We may have seen the beginning of the ends for Deon Anderson and Roy Williams. Anderson wiped out a big Felix Jones run with a hold in the November Eagles win and he took another bad penalty yesterday. John Phillips got most of the reps as the lead blocker yesterday and did a superior job leading runners into the hole. I think Phillips will be the team's fullback for the playoffs. He might get a number change and more time as a true fullback next year.
Outside, the Cowboys added a special play for Kevin Ogletree, faking a reverse to Miles Austin and then throwing deep to the rookie. Ogletree got behind Asante Samuel but Romo overthrew him. When Dallas needed a 3rd down pass, Romo looked for Crayton, Witten and Austin, in that order. Roy Williams finished without a catch and has just two in the last three games.
-- Doug Free for left guard? Free continues to press for a spot in the lineup, the rest of this season and next. On Jones' 49 yard run, Free raced across the field from his right tackle spot and was locked on to corner Sheldon Brown at the Philly 15. Free rode Brown several yards upfield, eliminating the last Eagle with a chance to prevent a score. Free was so far up the left sideline, I thought he had started the play on the left in the unbalanced set Dallas uses.
Free's mobility and superior size( 313 lbs. to Kyle Kosier's 307 lbs) makes me wonder if Free might get consideration inside next year. Whether it's LT, LG or RT, Free will be part of the '10 Dallas line. He's going to make it hard for the coaches to bench him in favor of Marc Colombo.
-- Any questions about Gerald Sensabaugh now? I think the two Eagles games have demonstrated the value of two safeties with range. Does anybody think Dallas could have run this game plan with Roy Williams or Keith Davis in the lineup?
-- On the flip side, I think Brent Celek's effectiveness points out how much this team needs more athletic ILBs. Jason Williams will have every chance to upgrade the team's athleticism there next year. If he can provide the kind of upgrade that Sensabaugh provided at SS this season, next year's pass defense could get even better.
-- What wrinkles are in store next week? Both teams opened in no-huddle offenses yesterday. Dallas started in the game in its base 4-2-5 nickel, with Stephen Bowen joining Demarcus Ware, Jay Ratliff and Anthony Spencer on the rush line.
-- Anthony Spencer has seven sacks in the 2nd half of the season. A tip of the hat to Reggie Herring, who kept working with Spencer, when he was piling up the QB pressures but failing to record sacks. The hard work is paying off for both of them, and that payoff comes at the ideal time.
-- That's a 30 yard field goal that Shaun Suisham missed. We may not see consistent kicking this year. Hope that the post-season brings a replay of '92, when Dallas never needed the mediocre Lin Elliot to make a pressure kick.
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Don't forget Stephen Hodge
reports out of OTA’s said he looked great in coverage.
As for now, I think we should stick Mike Hamlin in as the “nickel linebacker” like we did with Roy Williams.
based on what exactly?
He never played a down at LB in camp. Williams and Carpenter got them and Hodge got a few early.
in OTA's
Hodge Impresses
One of the biggest questions that surfaced towards the end of last Sunday’s draft was just what position TCU’s Stephen Hodge would play.
He was a high school quarterback, then a safety in college, but now the Cowboys are trying him at linebacker. In two practices without pads, it was easy to see Hodge’s coverage skills.
“He had a shutout this afternoon in practice,” head coach Wade Phillips said of Hodge. “I don’t think they caught one ball on him in one-on-one. It’s really an offensive drill because the receiver can run where they want to and there’s no pressure on the quarterback. But they didn’t have one completion on him. That showed me a lot. He’s talented in coverage.”
But he also has a knack for playing close to the line of scrimmage. As a junior, Hodge led the nation in sacks among defensive backs, recording eight.
Hodge is one player the Cowboys are counting on heavily to contribute on special teams.
“If a linebacker can’t be a good special teams player, then he needs to be checked anyway,” Jerry Jones said. “But (Hodge) had some time at safety. We’re going to try him at linebacker a lot. He can be a factor for us.”
http://www.dallascowboys.com/news/news.cfm?id=FE80406E-E11B-E1A5-3C6DCD2728BDF66D
I hope the knee thing is nothing big though.
Okay, I think we're talking past each other
you said Mike Hamlin as nickel LB, when I think you may have been thinking Hodge.
I think Hamlin might do well there
just have him play man coverage, he is faster than a LB and he did make a few plays in camp… I still think Barbie should be out there as well tho, he has played well in coverage all year
"We play to win the game" - Herm Edwards
by nicholas.rodriguez on Jan 3, 2010 11:34 PM CST up reply actions
I wanted this game but the next one means so much more
Is it Saturday? Or Sunday? I really hope it’s Saturday
I love it, no work on Saturday
I had to work for the last quarter of tonights game…and am still at work… as you all can see, I’m a valuable asset to my company =)
"We play to win the game" - Herm Edwards
by nicholas.rodriguez on Jan 3, 2010 11:35 PM CST up reply actions
Is there any ILB that can give Celek or Witten a good matchup?
Honestly, other than going back in time and getting Darren Woodson, I can’t think of anyone that can give you both the coverage skills that you need for guys like them and the ability to support the run that you need from a legitimate linebacker. I know Hodge and Williams are supposed to be tremendous athletes, but is there anyone currently in the NFL that is a prototype for what we need in the middle? I don’t think that Burnett could have hung with Celek either, although he might have done a little better. Maybe.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jan 3, 2010 10:48 PM CST reply actions
I don't know if you have ILBs who can take a guy like Celek away
but this team could certainly get better ILB coverage play. Those guys are sluggish in space. All of them.
Do you think the Cowboys look for help in the draft?
Or stick with the young guys that they’ve got? It seems like this is one of the few “weaknesses” of the team, along with OL and the always needed secondary depth.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jan 3, 2010 10:51 PM CST up reply actions
Don't know
they have Williams and Hodge and their injuries got them redshirt years.
If a big time ILB is on the boards in say, rounds 2 or 3 and he’s just too good to pass up from a value perspective, they might take a shot but I liked what I saw of Williams, what little I was able to see in camp. His range is superior to any of the other ILBs.
Hmm, guess I need to get another donation ready for this year's camp, then.
Need that insight and analysis.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jan 3, 2010 10:59 PM CST up reply actions
Are we saying Bobby has been a downgrade from Burnett at ILB in coverage ability?
I thought he’d been strong this year but I agree that we’ve been gashed by cross routes over the middle for some time now. Not saying we should’ve paid Burnett’s price tag, but he was a coverage ace.
Larry Allen benched 700 pounds. That is Leonard Davis times two.
Burnett was very good
but I agree that the right decision was made
by I_miss_Switzer on Jan 3, 2010 11:14 PM CST up reply actions
In Carpenter's defense...
and I’m not a huge Carpenter fan, there were times where he was on Celek but Celek just used his body and great athleticism to catch a pass.
by The Immortal Iron Fist AKA AFB on Jan 4, 2010 8:06 AM CST up reply actions
Is it me ..
or a lot of the times Carpenter is on the field, the defense has problems getting lined up. It seems to me that this has been going on for two seasons with this guy. He plays minimal plays but is always running to the other side because he lines up on the wrong side on the wrong man. Same thing happened with that Maclin “wide open” play. It looked like Jenkins let him go inside expecting help. … Don’t get me wrong, Carps been good covering guys down field, but why the confusion?
by spadesking131313 on Jan 4, 2010 8:50 AM CST up reply actions
It happened a couple of times
but it’s hard to tell who to blame. Could be Carp, but it could also be that he is in some different personnel packages and the defense is confused.
FREE THE OGLETREE!!!
Either way ...
it pisses me off.
Why don’t they ever call a timeout? They always seem to allow the offense to run their play, when they are all confused. I have seen it bite them in the ass too. Just call a TO and gather yourselves!
by spadesking131313 on Jan 4, 2010 10:53 AM CST up reply actions
But aren't typical 3-4 linebackers bigger and less athletic in coverage?
Having a linebacker on a TE or WR is always considered a mismatch.
Well, I think we're mainly talking about the nickel package here
That’s where Bobby sees most of his snaps. And you don’t need a true 3-4 ILB guy in that package. You can use someone like Kevin Burnett. Or you luck out and get a young Donnie Edwards, who is light and has coverage ability but can still play an effective ILB on run downs. But that type of a player is pretty rare.
Larry Allen benched 700 pounds. That is Leonard Davis times two.
I thought coverage was a strength of Bobby Carpenter?
He’s probably the best at it of the 3
by AustonianAggie on Jan 3, 2010 11:15 PM CST up reply actions
Some here have said he's looked good but
when I rewatch games I can always find plays where he gets beat-not like OScandrick beat, oh he was close, but beat beat.
A lot.
I think Burnett was way better-but you can’t have everything, and he’s a little faster than Brookings.
As a matter of fact, that’s what I notice w/him-he moves just about like Brookings-and that’s not good for our Nickel coverage ILB!
Pessimists say the cup is half-empty, while optimists say it's half-full. Well, isn't it both? Realist Larry, 2009
by Realist Larry on Jan 3, 2010 11:40 PM CST up reply actions
Hes faster than Brooking
definitely. But I agree, I think Burnett was a better cover lb than he is. Hes not awful though. Teams need role players, even if they are grossly underachieving role players.
Darren Woodson was a safety, not an inside linebacker
Not really fair to compare his coverage ability with a linebacker’s.
Larry Allen benched 700 pounds. That is Leonard Davis times two.
But he was a college LB that was converted to safety, he could have played as a coverage LB
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
I didn't mean to.
I just meant that he was the rare player that could offer the run support necessary of an LB on nickel downs while being able to cover just about anyone.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jan 3, 2010 11:01 PM CST up reply actions
Thanks Raf...great write up as usual.
I hope the eagles don’t read this analysis as you point out several holes they might be missing.
The only thing I think needs improvement is the penalties….we seemed to have gone back to that annoying habit today.
That was really the case in today's game.
It seemed like a penalty was almost like them drawing back for a haymaker, because they were usually followed with big plays.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jan 3, 2010 10:52 PM CST up reply actions
That Gurode false start was ...
B.S. .. Centers move A LOT more than he did. Even on Bowens offside, the Eagles center moved MUCH MORE than Gurode did. And the hold call was questionable as well, IMO. I didn’t see many replays, but it looked as if Gurode was on the ground and attempted to block, and hit the defenders feet causing him to fall. I don’t know if that is a penalty? It could be anyway, but I don’t think he held anyone. Maybe he tripped, but I don’t know if it was illegal.
by spadesking131313 on Jan 4, 2010 8:53 AM CST up reply actions
I was talking about Guride grabbing the guy's leg on a run that got called back
FREE THE OGLETREE!!!
Did he "grab"?
It looked to me like he tried to block while on the ground and tripped him. If he trips with his hand, is that a tripping penalty?
by spadesking131313 on Jan 4, 2010 10:54 AM CST up reply actions
Funny. We had this debate last night
I can’t imagine that a blocker can reach up and trip or hold a leg from the ground as a legal block. But it would be interesting to know the facts.
FREE THE OGLETREE!!!
Anderson's hold was obvious, on the other hand ...
Raf said they used Phillips the rest of the way. Boy this kid, Phillips, reminds me of Witten, but a very good pick there. Solid player!
So was Beuler! I used to envy teams that had a guy who banged KO into the endzone. Now we got one and he has helped this defense emmencely!
by spadesking131313 on Jan 4, 2010 8:58 AM CST up reply actions
this is the same officiating crew that called the DAL KC game
they call ticky tacky stuff against us.
we just have to overcome the stripes. any other crew allows half of what was called last night.
It's not that I'm saying we're due a playoff win, but I didn't have my license to drive when we won our last one...
by bulldog jeeper on Jan 4, 2010 10:14 AM CST up reply actions
Heres to hoping
games 17-20 we give up 7 or less ppg!
Miles came to play. Hes a helluva wr. I remember earlier this year, in the GB game, he didn’t come back to a ball that was almost picked. I think there were a couple more instances of this, though i may be wrong. Today, he came back a couple times and made absolutely great catches with samuel trying to take it from him. Those were very difficult catches.
Crayton torched his man throughout the game tonight. He was open twice early on for what would’ve been big plays, but romo missed him. He could’ve easily had ~ 130 yards
RW continues to do nothing. Ogletree continues to make the most of limited time (even if him and Romo aren’t connecting every time, hes getting open). I’m fine with the coaching staff’s decision to sit Roy more often, which they seemed to make in the second half. The players playing the best should be in the game.
I love that Felix is finally getting more touches. Our rb rotation seems much more stable now then it did 3 weeks ago.
I think we’ll just have to live with Celek getting his yards. We can’t take away everything from this eagles offense. LB athleticism is a clear weakness on this team, but I’m not sure any nfc team aside from the saints can really press us in this area. Theres no Vernon Davis in this playoff field, and NO is really the only team to complete spread the field and create mismatches there. Philly can but mcnabb will have to throw the ball significantly better than he did today.
I am blown away by how bad RW has become
I mean, this is a guy who has had a 1300 yard season. He’s got a high-end WR skill set. But he seems incapable of even being a consistent #2 receiver on this team. It’s incredible.
I don’t blame Romo for going away from him— you drop enough balls, your QB is going to start ignoring you. But it’s just insane the level to which he has declined.
Larry Allen benched 700 pounds. That is Leonard Davis times two.
I know
I feel like its largely mental too.
For some reason I still have faith – maybe he’ll have a clutch postseason game or something where Romo goes to him and he makes a nice catch and things roll from there. But as of now I have no complaints if the coaching staff rotates guys like ogletree and hurd into that position.
And that one pass looked almost like a broken play, and wasn't close to a completion
Larry Allen benched 700 pounds. That is Leonard Davis times two.
I'd say Celek is the best receiving TE in the NFC playoff field, outside of Witten
So I don’t imagine it will get any worse than it was today.
Larry Allen benched 700 pounds. That is Leonard Davis times two.
I would say he is the best recieving TE period,
but Witten is the complete package and blocks as good as he catches. I would rather have Witten any day, but Celek is a heck of a TE.
"Help, it's hot and dark in here and someone is laughing." Taco Bell
I don't know about period...
I still think I put Gates ahead as far as receiving TE’s.
by The Immortal Iron Fist AKA AFB on Jan 4, 2010 8:07 AM CST up reply actions
I know Gonzo was traded to ATL, but ..
didn’t get the news about Gates. What team in the NFC does he play for? Lol! JK
by spadesking131313 on Jan 4, 2010 9:00 AM CST up reply actions
Aaaah
I thought he meant “period” in the entire NFL.
by The Immortal Iron Fist AKA AFB on Jan 4, 2010 9:07 AM CST up reply actions
Who is the guy on the sidelines with the dreds?
I have seen him in quite a few games, always in street clothes.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jan 3, 2010 10:58 PM CST reply actions
Last year, it was.
But he’s on the Patriots now, I thought. This guy is less hawk faced, too. Similar build, too.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jan 3, 2010 11:04 PM CST up reply actions
It's a big, young, dude.
Pretty impressive build, looks like a a receiver or safety.
cowboy78 says it’s Jesse Holley, and that seems right. It’s him, I just looked him up.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jan 3, 2010 11:08 PM CST up reply actions
yup the winner of 4th & Long
He sure is enjoying this ride, being on the practice squad and at least being on the sidelines for home games like this.
Hey
he caught as many passes as RW did yesterday haha
"More than likely JW never played sports above the youth level. It amazes me that he seems to have no concept on the common reactions of an adult athlete or their normal interactions between each other." - laxonto
Right, forgot he wasn't just on IR this year
Larry Allen benched 700 pounds. That is Leonard Davis times two.
the guy thats always talking to whatshisface?
i know who you mean lol.
It was that WR that won the Mike Irvin competition.
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
Oh, okay.
I thought he looked about the same size and build as Stanback, but knew it wasn’t him. That has been bothering me all year.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jan 3, 2010 11:05 PM CST up reply actions
I knew I should have watched that show.
Maybe next year.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jan 3, 2010 11:10 PM CST up reply actions
Jesse Holley.
The tribulations of Winter...
90% of Americans say 'OH SHIT!' before going into the ditch on a slippery road.
The other 10% are from TEXAS and they say, 'HOLD MY BEER AND WATCH THIS!!!'
I'm expecting a closer game on Saturday
Reid will come up with some new wrinkles, I just hope that Wade is ready for it. Even if McNabb is sharper with his passes, Dallas should pull out a close win, as long as it doesn’t come down to a 30 yard FG for The Shankster.
I feel like its hard to take too much from this game
we outplayed philly for sure, but its kinda like that GB game where we just didn’t make plays early on that we should’ve made. Yes we got whipped on the line, but if we made those plays maybe the whole games different. I feel the same way with this Philly game – maybe if they hit jackson deep in the beginning this is a whole different ballgame.
Agreed
We outplayed them. But Philly’s receivers had lots of uncharacteristic drops and McNabb missed a low snap in the redzone and missed a wide open Jackson. A few bounces would have changed the game.
by JimmyJohnson on Jan 3, 2010 11:08 PM CST up reply actions
yep
If our oline dominates next week, I like our chances though.
We may need to blitz a little more – first make philly beat us by going the length of the field for a score, then consider applying more pressure. I’m not sure we’re gonna hold them under 14 rushing 4 the whole game like we did today.
Yes...
….but the spotty accuracy is not uncharacteristic for McNabb. That’s what he does. He makes some plays, but he is also going to throw behind or low on some passes every game.
Larry Allen benched 700 pounds. That is Leonard Davis times two.
Same for Dallas as well
there was a long miss to The Ogletree that would have negated the miss to Jackson.
I was frustrated by the lack of pressure on McNabb until I realized that they were using a ton of max protect in the second half.
FREE THE OGLETREE!!!
dallas used to put Newman on Shockey when he flexed ......
What about going with a three man line and use Ball on Celek. If I recall correctly, NE rushed 3 against philly in the SB.
by alanTdot. on Jan 3, 2010 11:00 PM CST via mobile reply actions
We used Scandrick on Celek today, and on Tony GOnzalez and Antonio Gates in other games
With some success, but it wasn’t foolproof. The problem that I saw was the TEs really outclassed him in terms of size.
Larry Allen benched 700 pounds. That is Leonard Davis times two.
I don't know if they need to do anything special
Celek is gaining yards, but in controlled doses.
What Dallas has prevented are the 50-60 yard TD bombs to Jackson and Maclin.
So long as the CBs are preventing those, I say why change? How many points did the Eagles score with Celek putting up big yardage numbers?
+1
I don’t care if Celek ended this game w/ 200 yards, the score is more important
"We play to win the game" - Herm Edwards
by nicholas.rodriguez on Jan 4, 2010 1:17 AM CST up reply actions
+1
You dont have to worry about misses if we dont let them behind us. Lets tighten up our coverage. They live and die by the big play. Thats the focus of our D. Its won us the past 2 meetings and we can still play this same D even better.
KICK ASS every day!!!
Yeah, frustration over Suisham's miss; I really hoped he'd at least hit the short ones.
I still wonder how much effect Hamlin’s return to play calling for the D has had. It seems like things shifted once he came back.
I can’t help but feel sorry for RW. I’d have loved to see a lot of hook ‘ems being flashed as he made TD after TD. It doesn’t seem too likely, does it?
Here’s hoping the Cowboys are up and ready for next week; the Eagles will be, I’m sure.
Just off the line........
Paul Domowitch’s Eagles report card
Eagletarian: The Eagles’ defense was thoroughly dominated by the Cowboys. They gave up a season-high 474 yards, including 179 on the ground, and allowed the Cowboys to control the clock for 40 ½ minutes. It was a classic case of a team getting their lunch eaten.
Raf do you think that the msm "experts" brains broke on the results of this game and came away with the concept
that the iggles went vanilla to keep from showing too much; they cannot get their head around the iggles getting outplayed like this. There were plays that they left on the field; but the concept that “the iggles went vanilla because of the potential rematch” is complete BULLSHIT!!!!
There are several reasons why this is BS:
The iggles had more to play for than dallas, a win and they have a bye as the 2nd seed a chance to advance to the divisional round and at least one home playoff game.
The week off gives them a chance to work on the new o-line lineup they started with today; another week of rest and work could have helped them.
The idea that dallas and the iggles would rematch if the iggles won is the biggest reason why this argument is BS. Phily would have not faced dallas until the NFC title game if dallas makes it that far; it makes no sense.
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
I'm not convinced that the Eagles went vanilla
why? If they beat Dallas they keep the 2nd seed and get a bye, and get to avoid the Cowboys, perhaps altogether.
+1
Why concede and lose the division and have to play on the road
"We play to win the game" - Herm Edwards
by nicholas.rodriguez on Jan 4, 2010 1:17 AM CST up reply actions
Rationalization, it's called.
BS as you said. I heard this, too. “The Eagles went vanilla after the long pass to Jackson failed.” BS. That was in the first quarter still.
MSM “experts” are so certain that Philly could afford to “throw” this game to get to come here for the rubber match? Fantasy.
"We'll see." --Bill Parcells
Yeah, I actulaly think the Eagles started blitzing a heck of a lot more in the
2d half. They didn’t lay down, they just didn’t have it going on this game. It’ll be different next week. It usually works that way, and Reid is a very good adjustment guy.
FREE THE OGLETREE!!!
All the adjustment in the world can't help when the players are
playing like the Eagles did. Dallas just plain out muscled and out played them.
"Help, it's hot and dark in here and someone is laughing." Taco Bell
Big Games are only Big Games when you Lose.........Wade Phillips
Great quote………great D. Congrats Wade. Now Bring it for four more straight!!!!
GO BOYS……….this was sweet but it will be sweeter beating the philthadelphia iggles again next week and sending McNabb home early for training camp…….
The Free block for Felix was impressive…………Haven’t seen a Cowboys O Lineman hustle like that ever……..on first take I thought it was Witten way down there……..
Jenkins continues to impress.
The Cowboys should have scored a minimum of 30 tonite……..no INT that should have been 3……….plus the Suisham miss………..the way the D is playing 30 in a game beats anybody in the “Tournament” and wins the Super Bowl.,
There toughest game will be next week against the eagles………..
Romo has been playing pretty good……….still why was he in there that late getting a cheap shot by the eagles D?
Jones ran great………..but Barber also ran great……….I don’t think you can give marion 20 carries……….he plays too hard on those 16 touches……….let him stay at that number……..
Hope Choice is better and doesn’t risk injury next week…………..
GO BOYS……….first step in growing up…………..
Congrats to Spencer…………..I can hear Hawk SPENCEAHHHHH!!!!! Arlington may need to learn that one………
Romo has been playing "pretty good"?
You must be watching someone else named Romo. Romo has been playing excellent football.
FREE THE OGLETREE!!!
Raf, did you catch any replays of that kick Suisham "missed"
I only saw the actual kick and one replay and it sure looked like he made it to me..
Me too
When I saw it I was like….thats a miss???
"We play to win the game" - Herm Edwards
by nicholas.rodriguez on Jan 3, 2010 11:43 PM CST up reply actions
Make that three
I think it might have been good, although it’s not reviewable, right?
FREE THE OGLETREE!!!
he missed it
I thought the same thing. then rewinded a few times and could see it pretty clearly.
"I just want to conquer people and their souls." -Tyson
"Football doesn't build character. It eliminates the weak ones." -- Darrell Royal
Suisham's miss...
C’mon man… There were about 5 seconds of that game that I enjoyed amid the sheer awfulness of that gane, and it was that at least your kicker still stinks – Let me at least have that.
anyone know what the line is for this game?
On NBC they said the Bengals are -4
Would think the Cowboys are -3 or -3.5 at the most
On Robo’s point, in Wades presser he said he thought he made it too….I did think it was a miss
Lines as per station casinos
Cowboys -4
Cincy -3
New England -4
Arizona -2
I would think GB might be favored
since they beat them down today, in AZ’s house..
"We play to win the game" - Herm Edwards
by nicholas.rodriguez on Jan 3, 2010 11:43 PM CST up reply actions
yea
I feel like nobody has a clue whats gonna happen with these playoffs, and the vegas lines are therefore conservative. And honestly, if I had to guess, I’d say two of the home teams will lose, with pretty much all games being equally likely aside from GB-AZ.
typically the home team gets -3 just for being the home team
so AZ -2 means they think GB should win
Raf you are not liking the play of Kosier?
Why do you think Free should replace him? If anyone is a candidate to be replaced I would think it would be Flo.
+1
I like Flo, but its about time for him to hang up his cleats… Great tackle for awhile, wasn’t perfect but was very good…
"We play to win the game" - Herm Edwards
by nicholas.rodriguez on Jan 3, 2010 11:44 PM CST up reply actions
he did alrigth and he has done well all year.
yeah he is slower and not as good as he used to be but LT is a hell of a hard position. i would love to replace him but with who. he is prolly the 10 to 14th best tackle in the league. if you replace him the person that steps in better be that good. you can not play a gamble at LT, that could cost your the season on one play.
He's not coming back next year
You see the play in the 3rd where Barber ran a delay left and Jeremiah Trotter ran over Kosier to make the tackle?
Just ran over Kosier, who outweighs him by 60 lbs. Went right through him to stop a big gain.
The run game will get a lot better with a bigger guy replacing him.
Is it his size, or just his lack of strength?
Because isn’t that something that they also say about Brewster, that he lacks strength? Not too encouraging that Kosier has been here a few years and hasn’t gotten stronger if that’s what they are hoping for out of Brewster.
by Baked Potato Soup on Jan 4, 2010 12:38 AM CST up reply actions
Kosier loses weight during the course of the year
I was told a year or two ago he starts at 305-308 and finishes closer to 290.
I don't know about Brewster
He played in a smaller program and needed an offseason with Joe Juraczek to gain strength.
But the same was true of Free and he looks okay. McQuistan needed to gain weight.
It’s common, especially if the OL didn’t play in a big time college program.
Brewster is 325 anyway
Get him in better shape and he’s closer to 330.
I understand he lost a lot of weight his last year at Ball State. A lot of weight, like 50-60 lbs. Remember, his wife died that year giving birth to their son.
I like Brewster...I hope he looks good next year in TC
"We play to win the game" - Herm Edwards
by nicholas.rodriguez on Jan 4, 2010 1:21 AM CST up reply actions
Damn, I had no idea about his family matters
Here’s hoping he pans out. I would think that raising a son keeps him level-headed and working as hard as possible to earn his spot.
Yeah, I remember that play vividly.
I couldn’t believe our starting left guard got hammered like that—bowled over—by ol’ Trotsky.
by Cowboys Dominance on Jan 4, 2010 2:31 AM CST up reply actions
i got to watch Trotter play two years at SFA...
I can’t stand the Eagles, but I’ve enjoyed watching his career. he’s always played stronger than his size.
It's not that I'm saying we're due a playoff win, but I didn't have my license to drive when we won our last one...
by bulldog jeeper on Jan 4, 2010 10:23 AM CST up reply actions
That's what Trotter does
He’s nasty against the run, even with his bad knee now. Used to just blow up centers in his prime.
But Kosier had an angle on him and was a speed bump.
So, we have to replace Flo, Kosier, Gurode's brain, and Big's matador cape (on some plays).
But we have a possible replacement at RT with Free (where Columbo has generally been good)! lol. Anyway, here’s hoping Brewster can contribute at guard the way we all hope, and that Free is truly capable at both tackle positions.
Don't I know it.
(Flashbacks to ’06, ’05, etc. against our o-line. Ugghhh.)
by Cowboys Dominance on Jan 4, 2010 12:54 PM CST up reply actions
Would You Replace Kozier Before Flo?
I am not sure I can see replacing Kozier before Flo. I do not think they would want to replace both in same year.
it be nice if Free stepped in and replaced Flo and Flo replaced Koiser
But that seems like a stretch, i do not know if Free is that good
Garrett has looked like a guy with all the answers lately
like he stole the questions to the mid term
by I_miss_Switzer on Jan 3, 2010 11:17 PM CST up reply actions
Lin Elliot
he didn’t miss in 1992, but Jimmy went for a 4th and 1 instead of a chip shot because he didn’t trust Elliott. Emmitt got stuffed in that swampy field and it gave the 49ers some late life.
Then Ken Norton made his first career INT.
Playoff game at night on Saturday
I think that helps, they haven’t had many early games this year, and seem to do well w/ late games under Romo.
Didn’t they have trouble w/some early starts last year?
Anyways, I like it!
Pessimists say the cup is half-empty, while optimists say it's half-full. Well, isn't it both? Realist Larry, 2009
Romo ends up being 8th in the NFL in QB rating this year
1 Brees 109.6
2 Favre 107.2
3 Rivers 104.4
4 Rodgers 103.2
5 Roethlisberger 100.5
6 P Manning 99.9
7 Schaub 98.6
8 Romo 97.6
He finished ahead of Brady, Warner, E Manning, McNabb, and Flaco
truly ridiculous
Those ratings are insane. Rodgers and Bens are a little high – they take a lot of sacks cause they hold the ball so long, which doesn’t affect their ratings.
The rules have made it easier for passing
the average QB rating for the league is probably several points higher than it was 15-20 years ago.
Rogers had an excellent ...
regular season. Best IMO, because he took so much abuse with sacks and still finished with the best TD/INT ratio. …… I think Romo had an even better year than what is on paper. The drops and the number of plays he makes with his feet are not recorded “on paper”. Tony escaped more sacks and made more plays down field than anyone in front of his except maybe Rothlesburger.
But my QB of the year is Rivers. He has been spot on down the stretch! Highest level og QB play, I have seen, IMO.
by spadesking131313 on Jan 4, 2010 9:09 AM CST up reply actions
If I were rating QBs with my own eyes ..
1.) Rivers
2.) Rogers
3.) Romo
4.) Brees
5.) Rothlisberger
by spadesking131313 on Jan 4, 2010 9:11 AM CST up reply actions
I would rate them
Rivers
Manning
Brees
Farvre
Romo
You can do a lot of things in life. You can't stab a teammate with a pair of scissors. - Kevin Smith
I just don't see how anyone can be above Manning
"When people talk about Super Bowl dynasties they mention the 1970's Steelers, 1980's 49ers, 1990's Cowboys and the current New England Patriots, but nobody has dominated the Super Bowl like Anheuser-Busch. In recent years, Budweiser has been the MVP of Super Bowl advertising -- making another company the favorite to win the Ad Meter poll was never an option."
Simon Noble
It's close
I certainly like Manning more but I think Rivers has put together the best overall season by a QB all year. He’s just been about perfect.
You can do a lot of things in life. You can't stab a teammate with a pair of scissors. - Kevin Smith
he has Manning # 2
"When people talk about Super Bowl dynasties they mention the 1970's Steelers, 1980's 49ers, 1990's Cowboys and the current New England Patriots, but nobody has dominated the Super Bowl like Anheuser-Busch. In recent years, Budweiser has been the MVP of Super Bowl advertising -- making another company the favorite to win the Ad Meter poll was never an option."
Simon Noble
sorry didnt see that bro :)
"When people talk about Super Bowl dynasties they mention the 1970's Steelers, 1980's 49ers, 1990's Cowboys and the current New England Patriots, but nobody has dominated the Super Bowl like Anheuser-Busch. In recent years, Budweiser has been the MVP of Super Bowl advertising -- making another company the favorite to win the Ad Meter poll was never an option."
Simon Noble
During the regular season...
…PHI never beat a team with more than 8 wins, or a team in this year’s playoffs.
Without turner and ryan, basically one arm tied behind their back.
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
And against Playoff teams we are
3-2?
So I had to establish the rules and regulations of the game...85!
by aussie_cowboy on Jan 3, 2010 11:56 PM CST up reply actions
I don't know about you ...
but I kinda expected an “L” to Green Bay because it came right after the Eagles game. It is just hard to come back after the emotion of that game. Only lose all year that was livable with.
by spadesking131313 on Jan 4, 2010 9:13 AM CST up reply actions
Here's the highlight of Jones' 49 yard run
http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-game-highlights/09000d5d8157614e/Felix-Jones-49-yard-TD-run
Watch RT Doug Free move off the line at the right hash-mark at midfield, decide to move past the LB’s because they were fooled by the misdirection and then head straight down field for the Safety. From the 45 to the 35 he’s just flat out flying for an Olineman until he reaches the Safety on the left sideline numbers, then he proceeds to drive him a further 25 yards down field (from the 35 to the 10) at which point Felix passes them and strolls into the endzone untouched by Free’s man.
This is a special play from a young Tackle who is becoming a real asset on the field. His athleticism cannot be denied. What position he’ll eventually end up (Left T or Right T) is probably still up for grabs but one thing is for sure; Dallas has a new young starting Tackle who looks very good.
Just think, this season has seen the development of 4 young home grown guys at crucial positions into very good starters; Miles Austin, Mike Jenkins, Anthony Spencer and Doug Free.
New young dynamic players at Receiver, Cornerback, Pass Rusher and Tackle!! The future looks good.
and don't forget
felix jones seems to be settling into his role as a back who ses the majority of the touches.
The future looks bright for this team. I think championship hopes in the future hinge on how well we draft ol and how well the progress.
I would include Victor Butler
who looked good as a rookie-someone needs to spell Spencer/Ware w/out a big dropoff;
And Alan Ball-who gets the praise that I never noticed him when he was in there, filling in for weeks!
For this team, to have that at safety is huge after what they’ve gone through there lately.
Also, RW is going to be pushed by Tree next year to play more……
Pessimists say the cup is half-empty, while optimists say it's half-full. Well, isn't it both? Realist Larry, 2009
by Realist Larry on Jan 4, 2010 12:13 AM CST up reply actions
Ball had a great punt-coverage tackle
on DeSean today. He must have had less than 10 total yards returning punts.
definitely
ball proved to be a serviceable player for us. But the difference since hamlin got back in there is striking.The defense has been absurdly good in the last 3 games.
Don't forget Ogletree.
He’s a stick of dynamite waiting to happen.
The tribulations of Winter...
90% of Americans say 'OH SHIT!' before going into the ditch on a slippery road.
The other 10% are from TEXAS and they say, 'HOLD MY BEER AND WATCH THIS!!!'
Might As Well Add TE Phillips
to this list; he has clearly surpassed Bennett. Ogletree is on the list, too. So is Bowen.
Congratulations
As an Eagle fan, you guys definitely handled your business. I still don’t understand what McDermott was thinking when he sat in his base defense most of the day waiting for Cowboys to rush. I guess this year I’ll give it as a rookie coordinator mistake but sheesh…5 blitzes in the first half?? I think JJ is rolling in his grave.
I can’t take anything away from you on this win, and the one cowboy I should really hate, Barber, is really the only one I like since every time he runs, he always gets up and is telling all the defensemen how good their tackle was or how well they’re playing…he’s too damn like-able.
As an aside, even when we beat you 44-6, late in the game we ran the football to eat the clock, I thought passing that late in the 4th quarter was just an attempt to “rub it in”. Furthermore, seeing Jerry Jones sporting the NFC East Champs gear before the game was over is not exactly a “classy” move. That shit pissed me off.
All that aside, we weren’t ready to play, and even though I think if the Eagles didn’t make so many mental mistakes they could’ve made a game of it…the strategy from the coaches this week just made me scratch my head through the entire game.
I truly believe that there is not much that separates these two teams, and for the second time this season, the eagles were just out coached…period.
Congratulations again on the win, your team prepared, executed, and earned the win. We’ll see you on saturday!
GO EAGLES!
I hate the Eagles...
but it’s people like you that make it a little hard sometimes. My wife and I have spent some time in Philadelphia and I hate to admit this, but I like Philly. Great food and friendly people. We took pictures with the Rocky statue this summer. Take care.
GO COWBOYS!
Sorry I dont think there was any attempt to rub it in or run up the score. Frankly its a little rich for you to complain about a 24-0 beating after you beat us 44-6 last year. As for Jerry Jones putting on a hat – thats ridiculous. He’s entitled to celebrate his teams success in his private box.
Good of you to be classy about it though. Youre right that there isnt much between the teams. I think Dallas matches up well with Philly like how NY matched up well with us this year. That said either team could win next week for sure. We’ll see you next week.
rubbing it in, what do you call brian dawkins doing the funky chicken all game last year. Today was act II of the big payback act III comes Sat.
Hey, we’ve run the ball well over the course of the season. But you have to make an attempt to run the ball y’know? McCoy and Weaver ran the ball twice….once each…one and one.
I don't think it was rubbing it in
I think by that point the Eagles defense had stiffened against the run and the pass was the only thing left to eat the clock.
FREE THE OGLETREE!!!
+1 We really were looking to make enough 1st downs to run out the clock.
We were’nt going to hang 44 points on you guys but the shut out kinda balances it out. We really wanted the shut out to exercise some demons and a “Jedi mind trick” on your offense.
We are evenly matched. I think its the growing pains of a DC. Reid also needs to man up to the fact that JJ isnt limiting the other guys to 10 or less point and the D not scoring 14 points themselves.
KICK ASS every day!!!
Come on that’s just the way Dawkins was all the time. The guy spoke in tongues before the game…to the ball.
I hated how he played against us
but he was a great player
"We play to win the game" - Herm Edwards
by nicholas.rodriguez on Jan 4, 2010 1:24 AM CST up reply actions
Late in the game yesterday
I mentioned to myself that the missing ingredient for the Eagles was Dawkins. When nobody else did in the past, Dawkins always made the play. You don’t replace a guy like that. Of course, he has looked a little old out there for the Broncos lately.
The tribulations of Winter...
90% of Americans say 'OH SHIT!' before going into the ditch on a slippery road.
The other 10% are from TEXAS and they say, 'HOLD MY BEER AND WATCH THIS!!!'
Rubbing it in is what the Eagles did to the Cowboys when Randall Cunningham
took a knee at the very end of a game in the late 80s, after the Eagles had the game secured and the clock was almost gone, then stood back up and threw for a touchdown pass. Rubbing it in was Buddy Ryan telling his QB and his team to do that, and then running his fat a$$ off the field after refusing to man up and look Tom Landry in the face and shake the hand Landry offered, despite that low play. That’s running up the score and rubbing it in. Look it up on You Tube sometime; I’m guessing some Eagles fan has posted it there. The Cowboys didn’t rub anything in; when Romo took those two knees at the end, he stayed down.
As for the hat, you’re just looking to be offended; the game WAS over, as you just pointed out, and Jones had every right to wear the hat proudly. I’d be way more impressed with your congratulatory post if you’d just, ya know, congratulated us.
F that...
After seeing Eagle’s fans cheering when Michael Irvin is laying down motionless on the field, I could care less if they’re offended.
by The Immortal Iron Fist AKA AFB on Jan 4, 2010 8:51 AM CST up reply actions
i think we're missing the big picture here
he just said that Wade Phillips OUT-COACHED another team.
ol’ Tex just threw up…
It's not that I'm saying we're due a playoff win, but I didn't have my license to drive when we won our last one...
by bulldog jeeper on Jan 4, 2010 10:27 AM CST up reply actions
new corners?
Just wondering…I have been closely watching the corners lately and I have noticed that T-New is probably the slowest of the three. He used to be the fastest on the team. He is big though.
Is there a chance of him being replaced next year by Scandrick? Those two young studs are playmakers, and it seems to me that T-New is losing a step/being picked on. I love the cat, but is his time limited? Or was he ever that good, just a fan fave?
he was that good
a few years ago he was grossly underestimated. One year no one scored a TD on him. That said his play slipped a lot with age and injuries and earlier this year he struggled at times. He’s covering much better in the second half of the season i think – but his tackling still needs some work sometimes.
As for Scandrick, he regressed a little this year I think. I think TNew is clearly better than him this year – he’ll have to improve in the offseason to overtake TNew.
Okay
I’ll go with that. I was looking at speed, and some tackling. I remember T-New being the shutdown guy, but I wondered if the rule changes hurt him. Anyway, since he is so big and strong, maybe safety is a possibility. Scandrick has been a stud. I would have to respectfully disagree that he has regressed.
Wow! "slipped a lot with age and injury" ..
Newman has been fine. He lets up some plays in front of him, but nothing wrong with that. The Brandon Marshall play, the one which he gets a lot of abuse for, could have easily been called offensive pass interfearence. In any case, he had perfect coverage, but Marshall used newman’s back and his own size to out jump T-New. Everyone is down on Newman because Jenkins has been excellent lately. But I think Jenkins has been able to shine because teams came in targeting Newman’s opposite side, and Jenks has been stout.
by spadesking131313 on Jan 4, 2010 9:22 AM CST up reply actions
You don't contain ...
The Chargers and the Saints like Dallas did, then shutout the Eagles without 2 good corners.
by spadesking131313 on Jan 4, 2010 9:23 AM CST up reply actions
I dnt thin he's as good as he once was
I think he was a Pro bowl level cover corner at one point. He’s not that anymore.
I agree with that...
he’s not what he was, but he has been solid.
He’s not Anthony Henry.
by The Immortal Iron Fist AKA AFB on Jan 4, 2010 9:36 AM CST up reply actions
I guess its the "loyalist" in me ...
I mean we, Cowboy, fans waited a loooooooong time to fill that other side with a good corner. We get one, and Newman gets schlacked by our fans (not you). I think he has been very solid, but Jenkins has had more opportunities to make plays and he has stepped it up. The only gripe I have with T-New is the same I have always had … his hands! I just think things are better stated as we got 2 really good CBs, and I much much rather keep it that way for a while than looking to replace one. If Newman would catch his easy opportunities, I think he has like 6 INTs with at least one more TD. Considering that one play against Marshall was iffy, if we take that play away, he has 3 INTs and 3 TDs allowed, with 12 pass defenses .. and he too has been better down the stretch. … I thought he struggled against Dwayne Bowe, but other than that, its been receivers in the slot that hurt Dallas.
by spadesking131313 on Jan 4, 2010 9:52 AM CST up reply actions
Wasn't trying to say Newman sux
I was wondering of he will be getting replaced soon. As he ages, when is Scandrick stepping in? And he was once a probowl caliber player, now he’s just a good solid corner.
Love the intro, Raff
But I think I DRINK YOUR MILKSHAKE says it best. Draaaaaaaiiiiiiinnnnnnaaaaaaaagggggggggeeeeeeeeeee!
Drainage! Drainage, Eli, you boy.
Drained dry. I’m so sorry. Here, if you have a milkshake, and I have a milkshake, and I have a straw. There it is, that’s a straw, you see? You watching?. And my straw reaches acroooooooss the room, and starts to drink your milkshake… I… drink… your… milkshake!
I drink it up!
ROFL!!!!!
"We play to win the game" - Herm Edwards
by nicholas.rodriguez on Jan 4, 2010 1:25 AM CST up reply actions
The Few Things I Took From This Game
Kicking might bite us in the ass. I hope it doesn’t but…
Apology to Anthony Spencer. You are a player in this league and I’m sorry for saying otherwise.
Roy Williams… actually I have taken nothing from your game because there isn’t anything there.
Firefrankwren.com: It's gonna happen this offseason
Hope Regained
Sorry to take up some valuable space here, but I have to confess. I was looking to draft day and training camp 2010 after the San Diego game. I had lost hope for this season.
Maybe it was the recent history. Maybe it was the ideal image of the early 90’s teams in comparison. Maybe I over-estimated the competition. Maybe I am just the typical Cowboys fan who will accept nothing less than perfection and always point out the negatives on a team that I sacrifice irreplaceable time with my family to watch and read about (my wife points this out occasionally.)
So I am here to cleanse my soul and repent. As I savor yesterday’s win and look forward to the playoffs, I am here to admit to Raf and the others who refused to lose hope that I was wrong.
On the plus side, with my on again – off again criticisms, I could apply for a shot as a DMN columnist.
The fact that you confessed error and now hold a positive view of the Cowboys...
…actually prohibits you from getting a job with that bunch of talentless hacks. Also, the fact that your post used correct English and was logically structured proves you are overqualified for a job at the DMN. But don’t worry you’re welcome here!
Nice to see you repent.
For all the nay-sayers who have poisened the blog this year, and all blogs in years past, the next time a Cowboy fan tries to reason with you when you’re on the ledge, don’t get disrespectful with us. I was called quite a few names this year just trying to help other Cowboy fans have patience.
The tribulations of Winter...
90% of Americans say 'OH SHIT!' before going into the ditch on a slippery road.
The other 10% are from TEXAS and they say, 'HOLD MY BEER AND WATCH THIS!!!'
How about you hold off a little on the "I knew it all along" stuff
I won’t be holding a pity party for you if someone called you a name once. Try being someone who objectively praises the good but is called a hater everytime you mention anything that could be improved. We’re all loving what’s going on right now and all want a run to the SB. The fact is we’ve waited too long for this kind of performance so you’ve been wrong way more than you’ve been right over the past 10 years.
by StillHateTheGiants on Jan 4, 2010 7:38 AM CST up reply actions
You must have been one of the name callers.
And the last thing I want is your sympathy. It’s clear you don’t understand the point of my comment. It’s ridiculous to see what happened when the Cowboys were 2-2. There was so much negativity, and it was so early in the season. And finally, who are you to tell me how to act? Chill. Your entire comment is comical.
The tribulations of Winter...
90% of Americans say 'OH SHIT!' before going into the ditch on a slippery road.
The other 10% are from TEXAS and they say, 'HOLD MY BEER AND WATCH THIS!!!'
Oh, stop it
I have been called a hater when I have pointed that this team has not played well. I have been called a hater when I have pointed out that the coaches have not called perfect games. I have been called a hater when I had the audacity to point out that certain players have not performed well. I love the Dallas Cowboys, but I do not take a panglossian view of this team.
They have improved. That means they are playing better than they did in the recent past. That means that some criticism of them was warranted. To say otherwise is silly
Lifetime Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
To me it was clear the Cowboys were close even when it didn't look good.
Is that so hard to understand? Sorry, but I’m at work and don’t have time for this.
The tribulations of Winter...
90% of Americans say 'OH SHIT!' before going into the ditch on a slippery road.
The other 10% are from TEXAS and they say, 'HOLD MY BEER AND WATCH THIS!!!'
Save your breath Sean
The minute I read WW’s response to my post I knew he completely missed the point. It’s a great day to be a Cowboy fan and it was a mistake of me to post that. Those kind of “we knew it all along” posts were inevitable.
by StillHateTheGiants on Jan 4, 2010 8:07 AM CST up reply actions
Agreed
And no, you won’t convince me to stop being an optimist. However, you were in error about this: When Quincy Carter and Testeverde, and Bledsoe, and in those days in general, I had no hope for this team. Not until Romo was about 6 games into his days as a starter did I really feel like there was hope for this team. And I wasn’t out there early in the year attacking those who were hard on this team. I was doing what I said I was. Trying to pull them back from the dark side, trying to convince them that this team had hope.
Let’s do what you said though. We’ve had lots of good exchanges in the past and let’s keep it that way. It’s a great day to be a Cowboy fan, and I don’t really want to have one of these conversations right now. Peace out guys. I really gotta go to work now.
The tribulations of Winter...
90% of Americans say 'OH SHIT!' before going into the ditch on a slippery road.
The other 10% are from TEXAS and they say, 'HOLD MY BEER AND WATCH THIS!!!'
Yikes
I never called anyone names and in fact took solace in Raf’s calm reasoning. I certainly didn’t mean to touch off an argument here with my post.
I don't want to say i told you so but
“Free’s mobility and superior size( 313 lbs. to Kyle Kosier’s 307 lbs) makes me wonder if Free might get consideration inside next year. Whether it’s LT, LG or RT, Free will be part of the ‘10 Dallas line. He’s going to make it hard for the coaches to bench him in favor of Marc Colombo.”
I told you so.
Your preseason play by play gave me a lot of hope for Free
and he seems to be living up to it.
And I’ve been saying it ever since they announced before the Redskins game that “Marc Colombo might be back soon” that benching Free for him would be a big mistake. Colombo’s December and Playoff play has never been that great while Doug Free has been very solid in a number of big games this year. Colombo never makes that block today and Felix does not score. He’s been good in pass protection too. Let the more athletic healthy young guy continue and put the recovering from injury old guy on the bench. Anything else would be foolish.
Hey Norm!
Where ya been? Welcome back.
by One.Cool.Customer on Jan 4, 2010 7:09 AM CST up reply actions
You're entitled to say I told you so
You were high on Free from the start this year. I hope Raf is wrong on him as an option to replace Kosier. To me he is too athletic to waste inside like that. His feet will help the team more at tackle.
by StillHateTheGiants on Jan 4, 2010 7:34 AM CST up reply actions
Is there like a urinalysis test for
being high on Free? I’m worried I might test positive for Ogletree…
FREE THE OGLETREE!!!
Don't need one
You’ve been on a 4 month bender for the Tree. I’m right there with you.
by StillHateTheGiants on Jan 4, 2010 8:12 AM CST up reply actions
THIS WAS AN INCREDIBLE GAME
Talk about exorcising demons! Screw you, December swoon! Cowboys finish 3-2!
2009 Dallas Cowboys: 10-6
2009 New York Jets: not 11-5 :(
2009-2010 Dallas Mavericks: 57-25
I hope that Dallas wins on so many levels now.
Not just because I bleed blue and silver, but so I can hear a certain blogger tell me more and more about this “brotherhood” that will vault the Eagles deep into the playoffs.
by The Immortal Iron Fist AKA AFB on Jan 4, 2010 8:55 AM CST reply actions
Excellent as Always
Great column, Mr. Vela.
In your 2nd paragraph, you wrote, “Wade Phillips’ defense will eat your cupcakes, and your lunch. They’ll drink your whiskey, sleep in your bed and huff and puff and blow down any offense in their path.”
How about the Cowboys WILL DRINK THE EAGLES’ MILKSHAKE!!!
“There Will be Blood” was begging to be quoted there!
(Just kidding, man. Great column.)
Somebody posted that quote here earlier in the comments section.
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
Dangitt. My bad
I didn’t see it. I thought I had read all the comments. I guess I missed it. I hate when that happens.
hey guys...
i could not chime in yesterday during the game, i had my one and a half year old by myself yesterday, so it was all i could do to just watch the game and keep her occupied…
but:
WOW!!! what a game…
D played GREAT… Eagles had almost EVERYTHING to play for and we shut them down and made them look like one of those teams that just rolled over this weekend.
and, like many of you i am sure, i am a little nervous about having to play them again this week…. but, better to get them at home right now after a stinging loss than have to go to Philly at any point…
totally excited to be back in the playoffs and playing good football on both sides of the ball…
our kicking game makes me a little nervous, but man the rest of our team is playing really good ball….
Hatcher's Hatless Sack
Gotta be worth a mention.
How many of those do we get to see?
Keep doing what you been doing, keep getting what you been getting.
Good win
Now eat your humble pie all week, keep your minds focused, bodies healthy, noses in the playbook, and Roy’s ass on the bench.
Let the chips fall where they may
1st time since 2001...
Dallas finished in the top 10 in rushing, even more impressive that they are averaging 4.8 ypc.
by The Immortal Iron Fist AKA AFB on Jan 4, 2010 10:07 AM CST reply actions
So.... Colombo vs Free
whats going to happen Next week? It’s aggravating when Wade Phillips has a suprise starter for the playoffs (as in Barber 2007 over Julius Jones, Rob Johnson over Flutie 1999)
Don't think you have to worry about that...
I think Free starts easily.
by The Immortal Iron Fist AKA AFB on Jan 4, 2010 11:25 AM CST up reply actions
I would agree
it’s much easier to keep rolling with who you have. And after the strong performance yesterday (four excellent runs on the right side in the initial drive and Free’s run downfield for Felix) it would be “indefensible” to put Colombo back into the lineup. IMO.
FREE THE OGLETREE!!!
But, the question remains...
Can Free beat Buehler in a foot race?
You’re the Best! Around! Nothing’s gonna ever keep you down...
You’re the Best! Around! Nothing’s gonna ever keep you dow-ow-ow-own!
by Aaron Novinger on Jan 4, 2010 2:18 PM CST up reply actions
or Glenn over Crayton in 07?
Glenn wasn’t ready yet, and maybe never would be. His ineffectiveness and TO’s gimpiness helped cost that game, along with Crayton’s drop, and his stop on the route in the end zone. Tony had no reliable targets, and then his protection broke down. I’m surprised he made it through the game, but Tony is a true competitor and kept us in it the whole game, even when Barber was ineffective in the 2nd half.
"Same Bat-tered Eagles"
You hit the nail (or the bat) right on the head.
It’s just about unheard of to win 11 games after losing more than 80 games for starters due to injury. It’s no excuse, but no other team has had more significant injuries this year than the Eagles.
Not taking anything away from the Cowboys yesterday (because they absolutely dominated), but adding Jamaal Jackson to the already long list of injuries might be too much to overcome.
The Eagles are the first team in NFL history to have a running back and a wide receiver with 500 yards apiece in the same season before their 22nd birthdays.
Don't let anyone tell you it's an excuse
it makes a huge difference to teams every year. The Stillers just lost their season to a handful of key player losses. Jackson was possibly the most consistent lineman on the team.
That said, I was impressed with how well that cobbled together line protected McNabb most of the time. There were breakdowns, but not jail breaks like I saw Dallas give up at the end of last year.
FREE THE OGLETREE!!!
yep
i said that last week – the jackson injury may very well be what puts us over the top.
Too many fans ignore the impact injuries have on the game, saying great teams overcome that. Tell that to Pittsburgh after playing without Polomalu most of the year. Tell that to Philly and he Giants for being absolutely bi***slapped by the injury bug.
Last year we had a ton of injuries, and it obviously took its toll.
I agree. Imagine Procter starting for Gurode right now. Holy crap.
I think fans mistake themselves for their teams. No, players shouldn’t let injuries get in the way of executing – that is, they need to not allow that factor to be an “excuse” for their own performance. But for anyone outside the team who simply wants to understand what happened and why, it’s a reason not an excuse. Romo was on Sirius radio talking about being fortunate this season not to have a lot of injuries coming into the final weeks. He’s right.
FREE THE OGLETREE!!!
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