Fixing the Leaks on the U.S.S. Dallas Cowboys
by 5Blings on Jan 5, 2011 12:00 PM CST
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There's a lot of water seeping into the ship that floats the Dallas Cowboys franchise. The lifeboats are being readied so that the passengers can get off safely. I say, damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!!!
The roster was somewhat of a fraud this season and the many and varied leaks proved to be too much for anyone to bail. The Place Kicker was a nice guy who just couldn't place kick. He's a kickoff specialist...whatever that is. The Free Safety was really not a Free Safety, but rather a dime CB. All of the DE's, for all the rhetoric on BTB about the role of the DE in the Wade Phillips defense making them good fits for the job (you know who you are!!), were exposed for being the JAGs that some of us knew they were and now most everyone has jumped on the bandwagon clamoring for an upgrade. Newman, like a caterpillar who turns into a butterfly, became Anthony Henry and had to give WR's a 10-yard cushion even in goal line situations. The right side of the O-line looked slow afoot as their big, aging bodies precluded them from being successful. The new #1 RB was not the game-breaker everyone hoped for and his hip tightness suggested we may again need to find a third head to that monster down the road. Add to that the fact that we know the 2009 draft was an atrocity and we have a long list of problems on our hands.
Here's the good news; First,Jerry hired Jason Garrett as the new Head Coach and is letting Garrett choose his staff. Here's the even better news; Jerry then called and asked me to take the position Dan Reeves was going to fill. I told him I wanted full control over player personnel and wasn't going to punch a clock (but I might punch Campo) and he agreed to my stipulation (except the Campo part). So, you can all rest easy now because I am here to fix this here leaky boat.
First things first, we have to consider the painful truths. This team is not going to significantly change every aspect of the roster that doesn't have a pro-bowler manning it and a young, future HOF'er backing them up. Dallas is going to go into 2011 with some players who we think are average at best and need to be "protected" at times by scheme or by substitution packages. Another fact of life is that you cannot FIXATE on a single player either in the Draft or Free Agency. To do so is to be oblivious to the fact that 31 other teams are trying to do the same things you are and many of them have the same needs; namely, rebuild their trenches and draft the next Peyton Manning, Ed Reed and Jonathan Ogden. You need to have backup plans for your backup plans.
Next, the Dallas Cowboys and the NFL Draft can be like oil and water for us fans. Although we like to concoct these wonderful starry-eyed (see what I did there?) mock drafts that show us drafting the best players available (which, as strange as it sounds, always seem to address our biggest needs) at each and every spot, Jerry and Co. always end up surprising and dismaying us with their non-standard view of who we need and where we need them.
Nonetheless, as I said, I'm ready to take my shot at the roster blueprint for the offseason (which I will modify as the new labor contract, Free Agency and the Draft get closer to being realities). So here goes;
I'm going to start by addressing the O-line through Free Agency.The right side of this line has looked like a jailbreak on most downs, regardless of who was under center. This is an area where Dallas has either failed to address the need or chosen unwisely when they did try. While I like Logan Mankins a lot, I don't see him being the guy that I will pursue first, only because of the price tag and the fact that the Pats are likely to tag him in order to get compensated. I think Dallas may pick an even bigger name on the defensive side of the ball to empty their account on (stay tuned). Instead, it is my belief that Dallas will (aka should) look to a guy like Davin Joseph, who is coming off of a foot injury but was playing the best football of any TB lineman before going to IR, as the answer to the RG spot that will likely be vacated when my Bigg hammer comes down on Bigg Davis. This guy isn't going to come cheap, but he's young enough and good enough to be there with Doug Free for several years as a young nucleus while the O-line is overhauled. If not Joseph, then Harvey Dahl, who is a mean SOB (don't you have to be with a name like HARVEY?), would be a good pickup too. I think the line can also be addressed in the draft during the second round. With the 9thpick in the second round, it's not unlikely to see some of the following; DeMarcus Love, Nate Solder, Joseph Barksdale, Darius Morris and Matt Roberts still around and any of them would make for a solid 2ndrounder on a team as ORT-challenged as Dallas. Unfortunately, Dallas would likely need to pursue a lower-tier veteran RT like a Langston Walker while the rookie learns the ropes. One more thing since I have been less-than-complimentary of Andre Gurode quite often. This draft is full of mid-round center talent any one of which could be the next Jim Otto. Okay, maybe not, but even if there are no Alex Mack's, there's still talent there. In my opinion, as I survey the rest of the NFL's great O-lines, this O-line will never be counted among that group until we find a Center who can be the cerebral nerve center for the front 5. I'll let Lissyyyyyyyyy dig deep on that if he wants to, but I'd look hard there in later rounds.
Next, I will address the D-line.Now I know people want to get right to the business of getting a safety and CB's like Prince Shakalakamakamura or Patrick (stiff-hips) Peterson or whoever, but that is a bad strategy. I don't think our draft position supports it. This is a class that is VERY rich with 3-4 DE prospects and there is a lot of confusion over who might be the best. That will play right into our hands. Given how the draft order is stacked, I don't see any outcome where Da'Quan Bowers (my favorite player in this draft), Nick Fairley AND Adrian Clayborn go in the first 8 picks. The one guy that looks like a lock up there is Fairley. The result? A draft windfall (again, see what I just did there? I know...so cool...like a breeze, right?) for Dallas. Any one of these guys could be an opening day starter and provide some pocket penetration that neither of the two current JAGs have shown. As if that isn't enough, I think THIS is where Dallas goes big in Free Agency (and I do mean BIG). Dallas has two Free Agency options here that make a ton of sense to the team's defensive future. First, I think they have to make a run at Haloti Ngata to play NT and move Ratliff to DE, if only because I think Baltimore will not tag him this season and my incessant harping on Ratliff's late season swoons have now been witnessed by MOST of you and you've come around to my way of thinking. I also think Ngata is in line to make big money and, although he is the one guy who totally deserves it (not like that doofus in Washington), Baltimore doesn't generally go there (see Adalius Thomas, Bart Scott, others). But I could be wrong and Baltimore could tag him or give him a long term deal. If they did, I'd have my backup plan in Aubrayo Franklin, a guy I have pined over for some time now. He's a poor man's Kris Jenkins (when Jenkins is/was healthy) and I think he's the kind of guy who could pair with Josh Brent to form a nice combo at that all-important NT spot for several years. So the new "3" in the 3-4 would be Ratliff, Ngata and Clayborn/Bowers or Rat, Franklin and Clayborn/Bowers. Compare that to this year's trio and I think we're set for several years at D-line.
Finally, Dallas needs to start rebuilding the secondary.While lots of people made derisive comments about Ken Hamlin in 2009, I wonder how many of those same people wouldn't have begged him to come back if they knew how poorly Alan Ball would play at FS this year. Let's face facts; Ball is a dime corner if he is anything. It's likely that Hamlin overcame the ineptitude of Dave Campo and had everyone lined up correctly more of the time than we will ever know. Regardless, we're moving on now. We've seen what mid-round safeties like Derek Cox, Thomas Decoud and others can do for their respective defenses. They aren't Ed Reed, but they help their teams and that, my friends, is about all we should expect here. Whoever those players turn out to be, whether it's someone like Brian Lainhart from Kent State (who I really like) or Quinton Carter from Oklahoma, is probably not an opening day starter. That means Danny McCray, this is YOUR life!!! I don't' see a Free Agent safety out there (yet) that wows me enough to go spend a ton of money on them, so the key is to start looking at CB's that might be ready to pair with Scandrick and Jenkins. BTW, I am assuming T-New is T-Gone (and yes, I still think Marcus Trufant was the better pick in that spot). So, looking at late round CB's like Dejon Gomes of Nebraska or Davon House of New Mexico State makes good sense.
A word on the draft.The 2011 NFL draft is likely to be the most drama-filled iteration of the event in many years if Free Agency does not take place in its usual timeframe because of collective bargaining roadblocks. The other thing about this draft is the presence of so many potential 1stround QB's (Luck, Locker, Mallett, Newton and now Blaine Gabbert). These QB's could end up creating some serious shuffling (aka trading up and around) by teams desperate for their next franchise player at that position. If that does indeed take place and we get an offer that makes sense, we could be in a position to trade down take a mid-to-late round O-lineman like Sherrod, Castonzo or Carimi and then be sitting with multiple second rounders to trade back up into the late portion of round 1 to get a Rahim Moore at safety (c'mon, did you think I was going to write this post without SOME homer-love for my fellow Bruin??? Did I mention he had 10 INT's as a Junior when the Bruins had a pass rush?) or the raw but immensely talented but very raw Allen Bailey at DE, who looks like the second coming of Bruce Smith. That would change our strategy completely and all bets would be off. Now, I normally don't believe in trading down in the post-Jimmy Johnson era because of countless errors by Lacewell, Ireland and Ciskowski, but this may be the year where we have to look at it because of the extenuating circumstances. So there is my disclaimer...but remember...I'm the boss, so I it's not like I needed one.
And that, my fellow Cowboys faithful is my first shot across the bow on how to get this roster headed back in the right direction. Yes, it's a leaky boat and there's much work to do, but it's not impossible. The good news is that I've turned in my resignation and have appointed YOU the new person in charge. I really only stayed in the job long enough to see the cheerleader tryouts up close and personal and could be a shoulder to cry on for the ones who didn't make the cut (it's amazing how much affection they need and I'm just glad I could be there...for so many of them).
Now, you can approve, modify or scrap the entire plan and provide your own. I'm very busy...
Take your best shot. :-)
GO COWBOYS!!!
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Just remember that 5Blings is typically wrong about everything.
He thought there was no problem with the defense.
He thought Garrett was a problem (I’m not going to bother digging up the link) and wanted him fired.
He thought the offense would gain yards but couldn’t score points.
Etc. etc. Caveat Emptor.
Romo has to take a few hits and stand in there a little longer If not, then this offense will dink and dunk itself to some decent yardage and not many points.-5Blings
Frankly, I think you (and others, to be fair) have gotten spoiled by how well the defense has been playing of late and it has clouded your judgement. This is a Mike Martz offense that has a history of scoring in the 30’s on Dallas. In fact, I think it was Creasy729 who chided me for saying that this would be a much tougher test for the defense after the Washington game and he couldn’t understand why I was showing any respect for Cutler.
-5Blings
I’ll just say I think you are very very wrong about the offense. and the offense will be very good.
I trust you won’t mind if I reference this post as we get more information over the season?
-Fan in Thick and Thin
Once it’s on here, it’s a matter of public record…
-5Blings
by Fan in Thick and Thin on Jan 5, 2011 12:46 PM CST reply actions 1 recs
Well, that's a fine "how-do-you-do"...
:-)
FiTaT, FiTaT, FiTaT…
You’re still ticked off about my XBOX 360 comments, aren’t you? Come on, buddy, get over it.
So what in my 6 bolded statements on the Clarity post do you think are wrong? You think we ARE physical? We have a great O-line? What?
Beyond that, let’s set the record straight; Cutler had a pretty darned good season, didn’t he?
And yes, I am still not sure Garrett is THE man for this job. If he goes on to win the bling, I’ll be the first to say I was wrong, happily so.
By the way, FiTaT, I really do hope you have a Happy New Year. To that end, you might want to purge yourself of some of that pent-up passive-aggression. Trust me, it’ll eat you up inside and life’s too short.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
You mean "when"...
Must have confidence. New order of the day and all that.
Assuming he becomes the HC, that is. And I don’t like making assumptions.
Mind pointing out to me where exactly it was you said Garrett would not win a SB as Cowboys HC, please? Just for future reference. ;
Otherwise, in my book, you’ve no reason to admit such a thing.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
passive-aggressive?
i thought that was straight aggresive.
if I ran around saying how great the defense was, that the offense couldn’t score points, and Garrett couldn’t coach I would be too embarassed to write until I figured out why I was always wrong.
you’re the one who specialized in passive-aggressive comments not me.
I really do hope you have a Happy New Year. To that end, you might want to purge yourself of some of that pent-up passive-aggression
Regardless, you and Jason Garrett seem to share a great deal, philosophically. I expect he’ll be out of a job soon. I hope yours isn’t in similar danger.
but anyway, let’s not quibble. You said you didn’t mind me referencing your prior posts. It’s all part of the public record. I’m just reminding people that your analysis is often exactly backwards.
by Fan in Thick and Thin on Jan 5, 2011 5:30 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
As always, you're the BTB King of Cut and Paste
But the facts always seem to contradict you.
Let’s go back in time, shall we?
The post you keep referring to was written after the Chicago game. Dallas was 0-2, had mustered all of 7 points in their first game while the defense you were maligning had held their opponent to just 13 points. I know it is ludicrous to expect your team to win a game when they hold their opponent to 13 points in FiTaT’s world of Madden 2010 (EA Sports…It’s in the game), but not in the real world I choose to live in. So, let’s admit up front we approach this from vastly different perspectives, shall we?
Next, I believe it was you who kept harping on the notion of passing more to win rather than running a more balanced offense, true to your online gaming prowess. The Cowboys turned the ball over via Romo interceptions twice in that game and provided Cutler the short fields YOU have been yammering on about for weeks now.
Through two weeks, the offense had scored an average of 16.5 points and the defense had given up an average of 20. While fans were enamored with a defense that allowed the 2nd fewest points in the NFL the year before, to assume it would generate a similar performance was not likely. Still, how many games were YOU expecting to win scoring less than 17 per game?
Dallas was holding their opponents down pretty well in those two games, with an average of 276.5 YPG allowed (damn good if you ask me) and allowed an average of 63.5 YPG on the ground. All in all, it looked a lot like 2009’s defense.
Meanwhile, Dallas was racking up yards and not scoring points, as mentioned, which also looked a lot like the 2009 version.
The assessment I made was spot on, if you ask me.
Did the wheels come off of the defense as the season wore on? Absolutely.
Do I attribute some of that that to a higher number of INT’s thrown by the offense? Indeed.
Do I think that being aggressive in the manner you’ve displayed makes you look like a little boy with Halo 3 as his internet guide to common courtesy and online behavior? You betcha.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
All in all, it looked a lot like 2009’s defense.
Meanwhile, Dallas was racking up yards and not scoring points, as mentioned, which also looked a lot like the 2009 version.
The assessment I made was spot on, if you ask me.
don’t you realize how clueless what you just wrote is. You just said ‘i had absolutely no idea there was a problem with the defense and I thought the offense couldn’t score points … and that was spot on’
Except it was dead wrong. The defense was terrible and the offense scored points exactly in line with yards gained (7th in yds/g & 7th in pts / g).
and you went even farther in your comments about Garrett. It wasn’t just that he might not be a good head coach, he ‘sucked’ as an OC.
Next, RHG (Red Headed Goof) gets clipped…mainly because he sucks. He’s a promising young coach, but the window for teams to win when they have a QB that could deliver a bling is short. Jason’s inability to get his unit playing with any sort of rhythm or identity since he arrived as the OC in Dallas is simply inexcusable. The Dallas offense (even sans Flozell) is still one of THE most penalized offenses in football. I’m sorry, but when receivers run the wrong routes, time outs get used because of play-calling confusion and our offense becomes so predictable that the opposing defensive coordinator’s 5-year old son can tell whether we’re running or passing (this just in: it’s more than likely going to be passing 80% of the time) on any given down is just too much to take. Jason, at this point in his development, would make a great collegiate Head Coach and we might be keeping him from reaching his full potential
oh you’re worried about courtsey now are you?
internet guide to common courtesy and online behavior
that’s pretty amusing from the guy who writes stuff like this …
I expect he’ll be out of a job soon. I hope yours isn’t in similar danger.
and this …
Back away from the spreadsheet and the scatter plot and move closer to your TV. You’ll see a whole new game.
by Fan in Thick and Thin on Jan 5, 2011 9:44 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
Wow, you sure can carry a grudge
Do you know my ex-girlfriend, Cyndi? ARE YOU HER?? If you are her, look, I said I was sorry, but how both of those Delta Gamma pledges said it was part of their initiation…plus, I said I was sorry!!!
Oh man, I wonder if my restraining order against her applies to blogging?
Anyway, like I said, you need to get past all of that and remember what connects us.
The incessant block-quoting does help add color (albeit grey) to any thread (and I appreciate color) but really, the out-of-context misappropriation and intentional misinterpretation of others’ thoughts does nothing but create a perception of you that says you lack the ability to create an original thought without a block-quote or stat box from someone’s web site.
The Garrett quote above was part of a semi-fantastical voyage where I went about putting forth (and please dude, take note here) an ORIGINAL compilation of thoughts without anyone else’s stats or block-quotes to try and bolster my opinion. Nope…it’s all me. It’s unclear if you took it as some sort of prediction, but regardless, I thought it was a pointed, well-organized plan for recovery.
FiTaT, I know you’re happy about JG’s ascension and you’re doing your best to try and morph that into some kinda of self-validation, but I think that’s so thinly veiled, it’s kind of sad. We all want him to win, but we don’t have to all agree on whether he is the right guy or that he’s not somehow culpable for the poor points-scored and red zone performances that we’ve seen the last few seasons, do we?
You once wrote something about not writing posts for certain segments of the BTB population because they had opinions and perspectives that were diametrically opposed to yours. That’s not me. I write so you CAN disagree and do it in a way that allows you to connect with fellow Cowboys fans but does not exclude ANYONE from the conversation because…in my world, there’s no such thing as blasphemy. If you’re under the impression that you’re somehow going to be able to mandate others’ views on topics like these, well, go for it tiger.
So, having said all of that, I invite you to tell me what you’d do differently than what I ponied up above. Oh, and you don’t need block quotes or anyone else to help you validate your view. You can disagree with nothing to back you up and your opinion is just as valuable and worthwhile as mine which, sadly, isn’t all that much. Think of this as a safe zone for any and every idea. Have some fun!!!
And again, Happy New Year.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
it amuses me how you simultaneously talk about ‘what connects us’ while throwing around insults
you need to get past all of that and remember what connects us … you lack the ability to create an original thought without a block-quote or stat box from someone’s web site .. but I think that’s so thinly veiled, it’s kind of sad
maybe your insult followed by kumbaya routine works with your boyfriend .. makes him want to kiss and make up … but not me. Nothing connects us. I just like quoting your prior shoddy analysis.
by Fan in Thick and Thin on Jan 5, 2011 11:27 PM CST up reply actions
Or...you're infatuated
All signs point to the latter.
And seriously…another block quote? Really?
I’m beginning to think you’re a bot.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
What's wrong with block quoting?
Surely it’s just a helpful tool to clarify what specific segment a poster is replying too? I understand that you two are having a disagreement and all but making an issue out of block quoting I really don’t understand.
Nothing. I was pointing out how constant block quoting (aka no comment shall go without one) is..."unique"
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Hehehe...Ben, you must be new here
That’s just not in my DNA. Ask OCC. By the way, I need to ask him if I can retract that mea culpa from a while back!
Maybe I should just join the “block” party…
I want to see Adam Jones back on the Dallas. After the Minnesota loss there was a lot of analysis about what Dallas needs to improve. The consensus was that Dallas needs to improve the O-Line. I disagree. Frankly, the O-Line conclusion seems to be a knee-jerk reaction to the most recent game (i.e. the final game).
Yep, that’s one from FiTaT.
Of course we found out this year that he nailed it. The O-line was magnificent and needed no improvement whatsoever. Bigg and Colombo deserve new long-term deals.
Next…
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Oh, come on you two
Everyone is wrong from time to time… For example, I was wrong with believing that Brewster would become a player… Blings was wrong in believing that Beatty would have been a much better pick at the time… Fan in Thick was wrong in believing that nothing was wrong with the OLine…
Oh, wow, guess what? This is a football blog, we’re supposed to be wrong more times than right (or not, but I’m digressing)!
Arnold, almost 5 years of good memories, you'll be missed.
Viva México! Go Cowboys!
You still don't like Beatty over Brewster, eh?
Wow.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
No
With all the problems that the Giants had along the OLine this year, he wasn’t an answer, he was actually part of the problem. In training camp he was even demoted to 3rd team.
They are wasted picks, both of them, that’s my point. It’s a tie. Can’t you agree to that?
Arnold, almost 5 years of good memories, you'll be missed.
Viva México! Go Cowboys!
No
First, Beatty has starts and first team reps under his belt. The G-Men are high on him.
All Brewster has under his belt is rolls and rolls of FaTaT (ooh, see what I did?). The buffet restaurant is afraid of him.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Then, why was he demoted to 3rd string in Training Camp, because they’re high on him?
While pretty much every OLineman in their roster was injured, why did Coughlin make this comment regarding Beatty: “I don’t know what’s wrong with him, if he isn’t practicing he isn’t playing”.
Yeah, they’re so high on him.
As I said, go to BBV and ask around if they think much of him, you will be answered that they want him replaced.
Arnold, almost 5 years of good memories, you'll be missed.
Viva México! Go Cowboys!
I think he was getting nicked up, wasn't he?
That’s a big difference than eating your way out of a job while injured.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
No, when he was demoted he was healthy
He came close to eating his way out of a job.
And during the season he was nicked up, but Coughlin made that comment about him, which kind of speaks by itself.
They don’t trust him and they will look for his replacement this season.
Arnold, almost 5 years of good memories, you'll be missed.
Viva México! Go Cowboys!
If so, he's an upgrade over anything we have
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Dunno, is he a Jacob Rogers?
Someone that’s injured when the team needs him? According to what I’ve seen, he seems to be.
Arnold, almost 5 years of good memories, you'll be missed.
Viva México! Go Cowboys!
And speaking of the G-Men...
do you still think JPP is gonna be a bust?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Got one for you too, dude...
McNabb is an inmediate improvement over Campbell
Is this where you take your mulligan?
:-)
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Mike Shanahan and 52 Redskins players disagree with you
:-)
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
No, they don't
They didn’t want Campbell either.
McNabb was an improvement, but the Redskins are stupid, Joey Galloway was a starting WR!
That team has a lot of problems and few draft picks, if Shanahan doesn’t start earning his money, they’re going to be in the basement for a while.
Arnold, almost 5 years of good memories, you'll be missed.
Viva México! Go Cowboys!
Look at how Campbell finished up and compare that to McNabb
McNabb has been constantly protected by Andy Reid’s play-calling prowess and Jim Johnson’s defenses.
Sexy Rexy outperformed McInjury against Dallas and didn’t have the benefit of training camp reps with the first string.
Kyle Shanahan knows QB’s and they think McNubb is McStupid and couldn’t learn the offense.
Sorry, the circumstantial evidence suggests Campbell would have fared better than McChunky in Wash.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Oh, come on
You’ve been critical of stats like YPA for CBs because they play against different teams and there are different positions. And you’re trying to compare what a QB made with a team to what another QB did with another? Apples and oranges, just like YPA for CBs (a CB that faces number 1 receivers in a per game basis is expected to have worse numbers than CBs that face number 3s).
Grossman performed better than the starter? Interesting, another example of a backup that performs well after replacing a starter? There’re many examples of that, most shouldn’t tell you that such performer ended up being a better QB than the one he replaced.
Arnold, almost 5 years of good memories, you'll be missed.
Viva México! Go Cowboys!
Look at it this way...
Who was happier with their QB?
Oakland with Campbell or Washington with McNabb?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Neither? Draw.
D@mn you ask tough calls.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
McNabb is average and had a crap supporting cast, Campbell is below average and had a poor o-line with a great running game, decent receivers, and good defense and “stats” will tell you Campbell was slightly better, which I disagree with and taking the circumstances into account I think McNabb was better.
Campbell had 57 different OC's and systems and has survived them all
McNabb leaves a leadership vacuum everywhere he goes and it will be interesting to see if anyone will want him as their starter next year.
Reid made McNabb look better than he ever really was, and now with no one protecting him, he looks like a bum.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Awww, poor 'Skins...
P!ss on ‘em. Looks good on them. The whole crappy mess. Sorry, it’s a grudge, vendetta thing. Not to interrupt.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
I knew he'd suck there
So did all of my Redskin fan (friends).
They’re so happy he’s out of there.
One friend who has some ties to the organization (got me great seats at RFK during the 90’s run) says the locker room was a house divided when it comes to McStupid.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Never been there
Would’ve loved to see a game there. It’s one of those places to me, a Gardens, Wrigley, etc. Never quite a Forum (not LA) or Texas Stadium.
Yep, even if just one, no doubt about the one.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
I only saw one COwboys game at RFK. It was the last game the Redskins played there. It was a blast
Lifelong Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
My Beer Blog: http://tiltingsuds.wordpress.com/
Yet another historic one to have seen.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Best NFL fans in terms of volume that I have experienced
Even the old ladies were screaming like wild banshies.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Yep, we went to one game at RFK
way, way back when. My wife won raffle tickets at church. Unfortunately, it was Giants-Skins game, so intra-division rivalry, but still nothing for me to be excited about.
You’re dead on about the crowd though, they were hugely loud.
When in doubt, empty your magazine
This pisses me off
Great stadium, storied history, church mice fans.
Ugh!
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Sh!t happens. Weird though.
Been told I make up for a sizeable chunk of folks though. I ever get down there, look out. Loudmouth. What a surprise, eh?
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Believe there's a reason for that...
Esp, having seen “them” on-screen. Yikes!
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Wr-wro...
Sir, I take exception to that. I’m hurt, indelibly scarred. To think I might be wr-wro…
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Maybe you can take small steps first...
Try saying, “I wasn’t right.” Maybe that’ll be a step for you ;-)
When in doubt, empty your magazine
But that'd just be wr-wr..., you know
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
superb stuff,almost choked on my cereal!!!
excellent post Blings,still love your’e writing.
rec’d.
Davie Wilson
"how bout them cowboys"!!!
by scotscowboyfan on Jan 6, 2011 3:16 AM CST up reply actions
oh ..that pic is mmmm nice ;)
Davie Wilson
"how bout them cowboys"!!!
by scotscowboyfan on Jan 6, 2011 3:17 AM CST up reply actions
Yeah, I could never be a judge in that process
…anyone that hot wouldn’t have to have any dance skills whatsoever. She’d be an automatic qualifier and could just stand there.
Imean really, it’s not like anyone (at least not any of the guys I have gone to the games with) looks to see if they are in sync during the routines.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
I'm fine with her just...
Sitting.
Right. Here. Beside. Me.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Thanks man
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
It’s funny you would bring up the ‘adam jones’ anaylsis.
http://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2010/2/12/1307402/adam-jones-would-help-the-dallas
The key points were
-the OL isn’t the biggest problem
-I think the pass defense is the bigger issue
I think the O-Line is okay
In addition, look at who Dallas plays next year. Philly (Jackson, Macklin, Avant), Indy (Wayne, Garcon, Collie, Gonazalez), GB (Driver, Jennings, Jordy Nelson, James Jones), NYG (Smith, Hicks, Manningham), and the aforementioned NO. That’s 3 or 4 very good WRs on each of those teams.
Considering Dallas was 7th in offense with backup QB and 23rd in defense, I think that was reasonably sound analysis. Compare and contrast. You thought there was absolutely no problem with the defense. I was worried about the pass defense.
In addition. at a time when a lot of people were saying Adam Jones would never play again, I thought he would and his play would be at least ok. You should see what Cincy fans had to say about him.
anyway, I’m happy to have you quote from that.
by Fan in Thick and Thin on Jan 6, 2011 8:39 AM CST up reply actions
So...
Now YOU are complaining about something “cut and posted” that you think is not FULLY in context?
Hypocrisy much???
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
??
I’m happy to have you quote from that.
by Fan in Thick and Thin on Jan 6, 2011 10:20 AM CST up reply actions
Isn't That Revisionist History?
You thought there was absolutely no problem with the defense. I was worried about the pass defense.
At the time the season ended, Dallas was #2 in defense and 14th in offense. That’s YPG measure.
As for points, Dallas was #2 on defense and #20 on offense.
So yes, at that moment, the defense was not considered by those who watch football to be the source of Dallas’ woes.
My point is that even a stopped clock tells correct time twice each day. It’s not much of a prediction to say that when you’re at the bottom, you’re likely to get better over time.
As for Pacman, I am confused. Do you still think he would have helped Dallas and advocate that Dallas should have signed him or have you come off of that position?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
the defense was not considered by those who watch football to be the source of Dallas’ woes.
that’s not quite true. people who were looking at efficiency stats were saying Dallas’s pass defense wasn’t all it was cracked up to be.
Here’s an example from Bill Barnwell …
In the Maple Street Press book on the Cowboys that Dave Halprin edited, I contributed an essay that focused on what Dallas needed to improve upon to make the Super Bowl. I noted that the team’s performance on offense and against the run had been markedly consistent from 2007-09, but the pass defense had fallen off from eighth to 12th to, in 2009, 15th.
Since I follow efficiency stats I was seeing the exact same thing …
the key takeaway is
“ranked only 17th in adjusted yards pass defense.”
Dallas is already 3rd best in passing offense. The big opportunity for improvement is the pass defense
BTW, I highly recommend this link. It covers the key issue of predictivity.
by Fan in Thick and Thin on Jan 6, 2011 3:42 PM CST up reply actions
Hang on now...
This article was posted in November and I always find it interesting how we locate whoever’s prediction happened to be right and post their predictive thinking after their predictions seem to be on target. I wonder how many of the other usual suspects predicted 7.5 wins. At last check, we got 6, which means he was 75% correct. Not good enough, IMO.
In addition, Barnwell disagrees with your assessment of Dallas’ biggest need;
I’d take my top-five pick and draft an offensive lineman, and if I was going to make any dips into free agency, it would be to improve the line on either side of the ball.
This guy must be a fraud because he is taking his cues from me!
The tried and true MO for building a dynasty is build from the lines outward.
I bet I am so much better looking than Barnwell. Check the photo out. I bet he can’t get chicks like that. HA!!
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Well...
there’s not water to leak, per se, in space. Only vacuum. So it’d be more like letting the air out, than water in.
It’s a Starship, after all. ;
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
I stand corrected...
“sucking the air out…”
Thank you, fine sir. ;)
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Ravens'd be foolish not to tag Ngata, at minimum.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Ozzie is wat too smart of a GM to let Ngata go.
Ngata is kryptonite to Pittsburgh and therefore will get tagged.
Cowboys For Life!!!! Win,Lose,or Lose Horribly!!!
by NVCowboy4Life on Jan 5, 2011 4:44 PM CST up reply actions
The money these guys want isn't money that all owners are willing to part with...
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
True. They'd still be foolish not to at least tag him, correct or not?
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
You assume the whole 'tag' thing will still exist the way we know it today
…when everything is now a point of negotiation in the new CBA.
I’d assume nothing right now other than 18 games and a rookie salary slotting matrix.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Good point. Great one.
Caught me in my very own “Assumption introduces error” belief. You’re right, I assumed. Point, Blings. Error, mine.
Figure they’ll still have something like it, but whether it’d be as appicable, you are dead on in saying it’s up in the air.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Blings 1, Tan 47
I’m on the board!!!
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
LOL Sarcasm does not become you. Funny bugger.
Now you really do feel like a 2010 Cowboy, don’t’cha? ;)
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Totally off topic
You know how some of our bloggers here have screen names that are either too long or defy correct pronunciation
For the long names, most of us just use an acronym, like OCC, AFB/IF or FTT (or FiTaT if you’re so inclined). And then there are the unpronounceable names, like our friend tanstaafl here. For these, I guess everybody makes up their own ‘shorthand’ name which they use when cycling through the comment threads
I’ve never thought of tanstaafl as ‘Tan’. In fact, I always think of him a ‘lunch’.
by One.Cool.Customer on Jan 6, 2011 2:39 AM CST up reply actions
I call him Tan because of the pic!!.
Davie Wilson
"how bout them cowboys"!!!
by scotscowboyfan on Jan 6, 2011 3:19 AM CST up reply actions
Me too!
I considered “Spray Tan”.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
lol Blings,anyway i like Tan's writing-funny guy too.
Davie Wilson
"how bout them cowboys"!!!
by scotscowboyfan on Jan 6, 2011 1:13 PM CST up reply actions
Agreed, I slow down to read his comments
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Awww, man...
Thought you, BW, OCC had broken me of that “incomprehensible” trait back with the Shakespeare and hanging me with mine own petard thing. Need to work on it more, I guess.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
I think of it as the NEW iambic pentameter
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Good. I suck at the old stuff.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Never thought of that one.
C’mon, you don’t know what the pic is? Seriously?
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
You win the beer.
Methinks, unsurprisedly, you’ve been paying attention. Or have horseshoes up your butt. Sticking with #1. Goes to observation/recon.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
LOL, and I will take the beer (always ;-)
Manster just seemed like someone you’d like, but then we all did and wish we still had him.
I knew it was a HOF bust, so I enlarged the pic, and my guess was confirmed. I guess that was paying attention :)
When in doubt, empty your magazine
Geez, I'm WRONG AGAIN
In that I’m maybe only half-right having gone with #1. When am I gonna learn not to offer up options. Dammit.
Figured you’d maybe gathered it from 2-3 comments I’ve made, some alluding to and I think maybe one overtly stating his name with respect to some Witten conversations/statements. Thus, the observation/recon.
Whether influenced or not, subconsciously or otherwise, deduction from observation (paying attention) is a skill you ain’t lost.
First one’s on me. Likely to be first dozen the way I’m going. Gotta break this “wr…-wro…, you know” habit.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Hey, you said WRONG! The 1st step is the hardest ;-)
You value honor and quit is the worst 4 letter word ever. Manster had honor and he never, ever quit. It was a natural.
And it’s obviously an HOF bust, so that narrowed the field considerably.
Hey, after the 1st dozen, that wro, wr thing will just be a slur anyway and neither one of us is going to remember shit the next am ;-)
When in doubt, empty your magazine
Say it a lot
More often the “You’re” than “I’m”. Or that ‘s wrong and it’s vice versa. Either way, I’m right. ;)
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
I thought I was wrong once
…but found out later that I was mistaken.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
That's the difference between us...
I wasn’t.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
btw, thanks for the "out"
You do have horseshoes up your butt. See “guess” in your comment. ;
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
I'll take love over lottery...
though I can get a real nice expensive facsimile of one with the other. Shame I got neither. ;
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Out to? Yep, definitely am.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Friedman would be so proud...
:-)
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
That makes, let's see... One.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Off topic, but OCC did that anyways...
So, it got done. We got us a coach. And a glimpse of potential for some crucial change. The right things got said and done, so far. One small step. Sure hope this is it, that it bears further fruit. Time’ll tell, but I see a lot of good out of today.
You? Anybody else? Without it being Kool-Aid drinking.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Not ready to comment yet...
my eyes are on Jerry.
Stay tuned…
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Yeah, mine too. Plenty to wait on. And time to decide.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
WOW,my clever comment about Blings seeing into the future ended up way down the line.
Cowboys For Life!!!! Win,Lose,or Lose Horribly!!!
by NVCowboy4Life on Jan 7, 2011 8:59 PM CST up reply actions
He still needs to...
provide me with the winning lottery and numbers beforehand to have me increase the probability much beyond hindsight, deduction, anticipatory speculation, hope (yes, even he has some) or pure BS. And I’ve only dared the “Buddy, you’re wrong. Just plain wrong” with him once. Good odds, in his favor.
And we all know how much my BS opinion matters.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
I'm full of hope
I’m a river of hope.
But…you must be realistic on your current state or all hope for change will be based on something erroneous.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Expect nothing less...
Of you or I. Certainly not implying you’d no hope. The opposite, stated, in fact.
And there’s no but about it (re: your But…).
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Which is why I said he should be tagged,since we don't know the future.
It is what is in place and that is all we have to go by.If you can look into your crystal ball and inform us what the new standard will be,I will gladly use it :-).
Cowboys For Life!!!! Win,Lose,or Lose Horribly!!!
by NVCowboy4Life on Jan 7, 2011 8:55 PM CST up reply actions
I think that smith wants to make FA easier and the owners want just the opposite
Either way, if it comes down to ponying up big bucks for a player, who (other than Dan Snyder) is the modern day version of the Yankees in the NFL?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Fully expected the Moore-love to be shown.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
And the brunette, dead center, you've competition for.
Bring your A-game.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
When did Lindsay Lohan try out for the DCCs????
Is that her next to the brunette,how did she get sober enough to sit up straight? LOL
Cowboys For Life!!!! Win,Lose,or Lose Horribly!!!
by NVCowboy4Life on Jan 5, 2011 4:47 PM CST up reply actions
There was somebody else in the photo?
Wait, let me have a look. Nope, not Lindsay. Sitting up straight ‘n sober wouldn’t remove the snotty-faced look. This gal doesn’t have it. ;)
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Too late
She got blinged.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Ahhh, soiled merchandise then.
Shame, she seemed such a “nice” gal.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Ngata to NT?
What makes you think that he will be a NT in Dallas, the fact that he’s a DE in Baltimore? Or just his size?
Interesting, a smaller player (Kelly Gregg) is considered a better NT than some bigger guys by another team… Oh, my, it isn’t just a Dallas thing…
Arnold, almost 5 years of good memories, you'll be missed.
Viva México! Go Cowboys!
BTW, found interesting that Mount Cody has also played more as a DE than NT. He’s the backup NT.
Arnold, almost 5 years of good memories, you'll be missed.
Viva México! Go Cowboys!
AZ has played a hybrid 4-3/3-4
Hence the moving of Cody around. He’s been a situational player.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Ngata is another guy who can play both techniques in the 3-4
I don’t think he is as quick as Ratliff, but he has more girth and would suit my choice to play NT. He can still penetrate, but it extends Rat’s career IMO.
Do you now agree that Rat should move outside or are you wedded to him at the NT spot forever?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Yeah, wedded, totally
Actually, more than ever.
That’s why I want a 3-4 DE with the first pick and would look long and hard at Cullen Jenkins of Green Bay as a Free Agent, just seeing the performance of Aaron Smith (at his age) in San Francisco makes me think that Jenkins could continue to play at a high level for a few years.
You add at least one DE that can rush and penetrate consistently and the focus that Offenses put on Ratliff becomes a matter of the past.
Arnold, almost 5 years of good memories, you'll be missed.
Viva México! Go Cowboys!
You're nothing if not consistent, brother!
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Why wedded?
Surely you must be capable and prepared to shift your opinion/conclusions in accoradance with changing circumstances? You’d seemed such a reasonable and intelligent person, I’d have thought it wouldn’t be beyond you.
You mean to say that, and not necessarily now, if shifting Ratliff from NT would extend or increase his effectiveness you wouldn’t consider it?
I don’t mean to intrude on yours and Blings conversation, I’m just startled and curious.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
I don't believe it's going to increase
That’s the thing.
With Parcells he tried the position, didn’t liked it, didn’t felt comfortable.
With Wade and his one gap schemes, the same thing happened, he didn’t liked it, he didn’t felt comfortable.
He likes playing in the nose and he’s made to terrorize Centers and Guards League wide.
When I think of Ratliff I think of Greg Ellis, during the Zimmer years Ellis was a really good player among a pile of average or below average performers. That’s Ratliff and his 3-man front teammates. Improve the level of play around him and you will see the results.
Arnold, almost 5 years of good memories, you'll be missed.
Viva México! Go Cowboys!
Don't get me wrong...
I like the job Ratliff does and see value at him being there with the right linemates. Just thinking, like I said, not necessarily now, but down the road or as circumstances might demand to extend his career and worth for us. For him. That more so than a potential shift now.
The increase wasn’t just tied to statistical performance, but to the man. Just think differently than you, I guess.
I’m not wedded to the idea of him staying NT if there’s a benefit to a shift and that goes as much to him as it does to us looking at it from a player perspective. Ultimately, it’s the franchise’s, his or a combination decision, not ours.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
I understand your opinion, I've wondered about that myself
But, when Ratliff has said that he doesn’t want to move to End and when 2 big defensive know-it-alls are more than OK with him not moving (I can understand why Wade follows blindly what a player tells him, but Parcells is big in the my-way-or-the-highway mantra), there has to be something in there that we should take as gospel.
He’s a great NT in a 3-4.
He won’t be productive for long? Who says that? The same people that call him too small for the position? Every player gets old and becomes less productive, it’s going to happen to small and large players.
Arnold, almost 5 years of good memories, you'll be missed.
Viva México! Go Cowboys!
Yeah, definitely with you on the...
idea about “who am I to question the player and the big-heads of the game”. I always try to take that into account too. Agree on Ratliff being amazing non-typical(?) player at NT. Blows me away. Did from day 1. So so glad he’s ours. If the time comes where he and coaching say “shift”, all I’m saying is I’d be the last to say otherwise. If he stays productive and personally fulfilled at whatever position, I’m a-ok with it. Just open to a possible change down the road, if it ever came to be. Sometimes I look at a classic big-ass NT tying up the middle with Ratliff on the end, see some advantage to the idea, but no more than him getting free up the middle as he’s done and wrecking havoc. Trick’s going to be to get those multiple teamings off him to let him loose again. Bring the end in as you say, it’d work. If he was end and comfortable/happy in the role with a classic middle-hogging NT and doing his thing, also a-ok by me. Decision’s not mine, it’s his and theirs. Whatever works. I’m just pleased he’s ours, despite the BS that some say about his production dropping. I tend not to look at things that simplistically. The man’s, well. one of our best. Just Jay.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
He's a great NT in a 3-4 for 75% of the season
He wears down as they hit December.
To be fair, some of that may be more about the lack of a solid backup, but it s what it is.
Franklin seems to play his best games late in the season. He won’t get much penetration, but he doesn’t get moved even when doubled.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Yeah, the wear-and-tear, it gets to a guy
Esp with a Ratliff-ype and sized case in this situation. I agree we need to limit the constant physical pressure it puts on him and frankly don’t care how we do it so long as it frees him to perform as he can. Whether from inside as he’s “comfortable”, shifted, rotation, whatever.
If Franklin or anyone can tie up the middle and 2 guys, pentration’s not a big thing and I think a shift has to be looked at from a coaching perspective. Some things a player’s just got to live with, like any employee. Enough of this catering to the player mentality, even though you want to take it into account, a guy knowing himself best and such.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
I thought that was the reason for bringing in Brent,
to take 25-30% of the snaps from Rat so he doesn’t wear down.IMHO Brent won’t be that much of a drop-off once he catches on completely.
Cowboys For Life!!!! Win,Lose,or Lose Horribly!!!
by NVCowboy4Life on Jan 7, 2011 9:06 PM CST up reply actions
One of the things touted when we drafted him was...
his huge motor – same as Rat. I agree, not much of a drop off at all. Does Brent play DE also? I don’t remember. He could be the DE to complement Rat, eating up another double team and freeing either Dware & Spencer to single blockers.
When in doubt, empty your magazine
I think OCC said it in another post
…but high-motor can also mean; less talented, undersized, not strong enough, lacking moves, etc.
His point was that it’s not always a compliment and I wholeheartedly agree.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
I don't see the correlation between high-motor meaning
less talented, undersized, understrength, etc. Those are each individual specifics which can be measured. High-motor seems to me to be more of a subjective observation, and not correlated to those other things.
But, I do agree, high-motor doesn’t indicate any skills, just constantly going as hard as possible, all the time. But, we have seen skills from Brent. Sure, they need more honing, he was in the supplemental draft for a reason. But I believe there is value there which can be honed to a more than serviceable DT.
My other question: Does he play DE also?
When in doubt, empty your magazine
I think Lissemore was the guy they were looking at as a future DE
Brent was purely a nose guard.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
He could still play there on passing downs...
but on 1st and second, he’d be fine at the DE spot.
I’d rather see a guy who is less a penetrator and more of a gap-contain body. Ngata and Franklin fit that bill. There may be others too.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Yeah, the juggling position does kinda concern me though.
It’s a rythmn thing, a feel for the nuances of the game and guys you’re facing, you know what I mean? It kinda complicates things a bit, but not insurmountably, as it’s not an unsual implementation. There’ s definite merit to the hog in the middle, esp. when run-related. Really I think the biggest thing is to get something done to free the double-teaming from being as consistent as it is. Whether it’s a quality end, position-shifting (as circumstances dictate as you’re suggesting), whatever. Let’s just get this guy some help and freed up to do his thing. He is one of the, if not the, tops at what he brings to the table. Yes, I’m biased. The guy amazes me, doubled or not, not being a proto-typical NT but opening everybody’s eyes to the possibilities of a more dynamic alternative to the position, not that he’s the first, but he does demand the attention and it’s made people sit up and take notice. Let’s just get him turned loose.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Ngata does it today!
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Playing for the Ravens?! Wow, he is gooood!!!
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Just FYI… The Ravens tagged Terrell Suggs the year Bart Scott escaped. Unless the Ravens have another soon-to-be free agent that’s better than Haloti Ngata (I didn’t check), there’s no way he makes it to free agency. Same goes for the guy that pops up in every third fan-post here, Logan Mankins, and others.
by JimmyK on Jan 5, 2011 1:13 PM CST reply actions 1 recs
Yeah, and it’s very likely that there won’t be much of a Free Agency is a new CBA is agreed and resembles some of what the owners want (rookie wage scale), that would mean more space in the cap to sign the FAs that teams want to keep.
Arnold, almost 5 years of good memories, you'll be missed.
Viva México! Go Cowboys!
I think Mankins is more likely than Ngata.
But it might not be an instance of free agency and instead could end up being a trade if the franchise him.
AFB Condensed- New name, same flavor.
Possibly
…but the Baltimore ownership hasn’t displayed a propensity for throwing huge money at their players in long-term deals. Ngata will expect nothing less.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Yeah.
The constant calls for marquee signings like Mankins (which has been going on since September) and now Ngata are getting old. They’re also unrealistic.
First of all there’s a good chance both guys will be resigned. Ngata is probably a lock to be resigned. Mankins may come free but quite possibly not too. On the off chance that they do come free both guys will want big, big dollars. In Ngata’s case huge dollars.
If there’s a new CBA that means there is a new salary cap. Dallas’ current figure is miles above everyone else but Oakland. Some of that figure may be inflated by contracts that Jerry and Stephen allowed to be maximized in this cap-less year (Austin’s big figure comes to mind). Some guys who have big contracts will be cut and so that will also help. But this team by no means appears like it will have salary space to burn once a new cap is installed (I’d be happy to be corrected here but everything I’ve seen so far suggests this).
And Blings, criticizing people for having a Madden video game perspective of things and then advocating signing guys like Ngata and Joseph (or Mankins) is pretty funny.
I see no correlation between the two
…but rage on, my brother.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Really?
Well I thought the correlation was pretty simple.
And "rage on"? Not sure where I was raging but argh, thanks, and umm, you rage on too I guess…
Put it this way
There was no way Dallas was going to get the best cover corner in the game to add to their already formidable defense after having been in the NFC Championship Game the prior year, right?
That’s crazy talk, right?
The point is that big name FA’s move all the time. SOMEBODY is going to want players like Mankins and Ngata and Haynesworth. why do you immediately count Dallas out of that group of somebodies and equate that with a less-than-realistic viewpoint?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
I guess you didn't read my post before responding?
I never said they didn’t move. I said that it was unlikely Ngata will move and that even in the event that he did hit free agency I do not see how the Cowboys, with their current players salary figure and a new salary cap on the way, will be able to sign the league’s #1 Free Agent.
As I said in my original comment, if I’m wrong about the salary part I’d be happy to hear it but everything I’ve seen tells me we won’t have the money to be signing $60 to $80 million dollar deals in free agency.
Dunno
Who has the skinny on 2011’s current cap by player?
I assume they can clear some space given Bigg and Colombo?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
I agree with almost everything - in principle
I’ll buy this strategy, knowing that some of the specific players will not work out as planned, but we can just substitute some other names and the principle remains intact. I also see that you have no plans for a fullback, and I can live with that.
I particularly like the idea of NOT drafting a CB with the first pick. Not a popular opinion these days, which makes me all the more certain that it is the correct strategy.
The one thing I don’t agree with: Pinning your hopes on Danny McCray as the answer at safety is going to get you nothing more than Alan Ball 2.0
by One.Cool.Customer on Jan 5, 2011 2:57 PM CST reply actions
or worse....
Alan Ball 0.5. Because I’m not sure Alan Ball is godawful. But the combination of the average/subpar play of him and Sensabaugh combined with the fact DWare was our only legit pass rusher this year just made everyone look bad I think.
But I’m coming around to DE too. I honestly just don’t know enough about these guys and how well their skills will translate to the pro game. Meanwhile, it seems like highly drafted cbs tend to make some sort of an impact. But given the choice of 2 players of equal talent, you almost always imo take the front 7 player over the secondary player. And I do agree with Blings that if we can get better coaching in the secondary and a better safety that Jenkins will turn it around.
Like I said
Not every spot can be upgraded in one fell swoop (aka offseason).
The team is still going to have some holes going into the year. That doesn’t mean a camp cut won’t be out there for us to nab. But even a sub-par safety tandem can be protected if the DC plays his cards right. McCray is bigger and has actually played the position before (I know, crazy right?) and done it with aplomb.
Maybe AOA turns out to be something of value since his hips looked awfully tight on returns. Lots can happen there…
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Answer might end up being a bit of both (AOA/McCray)
Long ways to go, regardless.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
VERY possible if there are no viable veteran options
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Love the reasoning
Not a popular opinion these days, which makes me all the more certain that it is the correct strategy.
Seriously. I do.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Prefer AOA possibly
Him coming in I’d considered the potential. As I’m sure many had/have.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
We don't know what we don't know. AOA did nothing for me when I saw him show zero wiggle
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Know what you mean, I just wish we'd had more opportunity to see. Maybe this coming year.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Nah, I like McCann in that role
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
You're talking ST, runbacks, yes?
My original comment/reply was about AOA’s safety potential. Though they both have some there, whether it’d pan out in development or not would need to be seen. And may yet fit into the plan.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
You have to be able to flip your hips to turn and run with TE's in the NFL
…and the East boasts athletic ones like Celek and Cooley. Based on how stiff AOA looked on returns, he has a long way to go before I put any stake in his ability to be the starting FS.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Yeah, good point...
I just ain’t sold on it being out of the realm of possibility with so little evidence in hand. Wish we’d gotten to see more of him this season, is all. You could be right. Then again…
Next year’ll have to tell.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
I am in the same boat regarding CB.
I initially thought back around October that we could go after a guy like Patrick Peterson (to play CB or S) but lately I have shifted my first round focus towards the front seven or the offensive line. CB is one of the deepest positions in the draft and I think if we want to address that position we can do so in the mid-rounds since we already have Newman, Jenkins, and Scandrick (guys who I do think can play well if they have a good front seven in front of them).
Formerly Cowboyfan729
If I had a nickel for every time the Eagles won the Super Bowl, I would have zero nickels
Sanity
Cincy has two #1’s manning their CB spots and have NEVER fixed their front 7. Their defense hasn’t had any consistency.
The Dallas secondary is the same as last year, sans Hamlin, and they are much worse. But I would say Spencer never came on like he did in December last year and thus, we’ve never really had a credible pass rush without bringing 5 or 6.
If you can generate pressure with 4, you can win.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
The guy I am really keeping my eye on is Ahmad Black.
I believe we could get him in the second or third round and I see him as a great depth-adder. He has played at an extremely high level for Florida as a SS, but because of his height he will probably drop below where he should be drafted. The additionally awesome part about Black is that he has the athleticism to play CB if needed. He could be a great draft pick for Dallas in the second-third round range. Of course, if we don’t address the O-line enough in FA it would be hard to ignore it in the 1st and 2nd rounds (at least for me, maybe not for Jerry unfortunately).
Formerly Cowboyfan729
If I had a nickel for every time the Eagles won the Super Bowl, I would have zero nickels
You're right about his height
So, the Combine will be important for him when they look at his 40, his jumps, etc.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
The other interesting possibility is that...
the draft happens BEFORE Free agency while the new labor deal gets ironed out. That could totally turn the mock draft world on its ear.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
More than just the mocking
Imagine what it’d do to the real draft. Implications to FA with those guys not having the potential a team could address things come the draft hanging out there. As minor a thing as it is, it’d be gone entirely. It’d be head-shaking. The CBA have to have some FA limitations or such, maybe single year, or the owners in unspoken collusion.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
yeah, I was in much a similar boat...
but intitially looking at the other side of the ball, the OL. But things here, you guys talking, and as the season progressed seeing things, I shifted to getting the front 7 straight as the key. Bring in a DE/NT, do a shift or not, pick up ILB (Lee, I like what we’ve seen so far, but the “dings” evaluation out of college and so far does concern me a bit), maybe grab someone like this Moore kid (Blings’ wet dream, eh? :) and we can leave the CB to mid- to later rounds. Address the OL with FA and maybe a pick. It’s what to do, when, depending on who’s avaliable and all that that’s the tricky part. Still so nebulous to me, but if we’re thinking about it you gotta believe the big-heads are light years ahead. Please, let them be. ;)
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
It's either or at this point...
The draft is very deep with DE’s and CB’s. Any of the aforementioned elite talent that falls to us should definitely be snatched up. We do need a CB and we do need a DE to help our defense. We also need a pure safety and not a converted back. I think we got too cheap in that position. I think there are some blue collar talent that could come out in free agency that can help out our oline immediately.
F**** establishing a culture, we need to establish dominance...
You could put Revis or Nnamdi back there with Jenkins and Scandrick
It would not be the answer to what ails the defense.
The problem is up front. Pittsburgh wins with one great DB and a badass front 7. That would be my success model.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
I think we have 5/7 pieces
Ratliff/Ware/Spencer/Lee/James. James might not be a pro-bowler but he is a solid all-around player who’s been around but still has all his skills, unlike Brooking.
not sure spencer should could..
in a 3-4, you need both olbs to be able to rush. It makes playcalling much more predictable when only one of the two can consistently get to the qb
Money observation
The rush that can come from both sides is the key. Any team can take a single opposing OLB out of the picture.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
I'm not entirely sold on Spears not being part of that bunch
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
This is spot on
This seems reasonable, yet drastic enough to produce results. I would LOVE to get John Fox here. Fox + Big-Time FA signing + #9 pick = The dominant defense we all want.
Fox is purely a 4-3 guy. I think he’d want to change the scheme. That’s fine if you think we’re going to take 3 years to rebuild. And maybe we are?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
If he really is a "pure" 4-3 guy,
then nvm. We’re not going into a “rebuild” stage. Jerry’s ego couldn’t take it.
Hopefully, someone who is creative in terms of pass-rush schemes and mixes up coverages to confuse opponents
That could be any number of people, but it looks like Garrett is being afforded the opportunity to pick people he knows and trusts. That’s what matter most.
I said Jerry would change his behavior at some point and it looks like he is.
Everyone should feel good about that.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Think this is...
…That’s what matter most.
One we’ve agreed on from the very beginning.
Coupled with the whole Jerry/control/authority/responsibility boondoggle. And maybe, just maybe, we’re seeing the beginnings of the shift we need most to happen.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Told ya he would...
This is TRULY the Season of Jerry.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
And perhaps...
The colossal disappointment of its first-half sparked the internal reflection to begin getting him to see “getting the monkey off his back” and achieving “a reasonable chance of coming away with a bling” is going to take more than just his efforts. We can still only hope the glimmer of hope in the way the second-half went provides an impetus for him to continue down the path things are hinting at coming into being.
Denial of his grand show taking place just as he’d desired might’ve been just the tonic the snake-oil salesman needed. And I’m not using the term to be snide.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
For what it's worth, I think that is EXACTLY where his head is
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Well...
I’ve read what you’ve written/said, you’ve done likewise in reverse and we sure ain’t arguing about it. I’m maybe just a tad more to the hope/sceptical/cynical side than you, but I think we’re pretty much in agreement.
It’s the doubting Thomas in me. Not just with Jerry. I’ve trust “problems”. Again, what gf’s have said. ;
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
This is progress
…I hope it continues.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
I may yet find the power of prayer. Ummm, nahhh... Stick with hope.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
No. We're not doing any such thing.
Then again. I’ve been wr… – wro…, you know, before.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Can I ask why people are high on Fox?
This isn’t antagonistic, I’m just going on the context I have. Carolina had the worst record in all of Football, he’s about to be canned, and we want him?
Has he done something that i’m not aware of
What's this? Mcnabb's been benched and Vick can't have a puppy? Now if Eli could just get coal in his stockings I'd have a Merry Christmas.
Disclaimer: Don’t listen to me I usually make bad decisions. Don’t take advice while operating machinery. Do not listen if you are pregnant or may become pregnant. See your GM for more advice
http://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2010/12/1/1837314/a-pass-centric-look-at-the-coaching-candidates
the link above was my take.
he was known as a great DC in NY. I haven’t looked at his record in NY but his defensive record in Carolina was very good. It was the offense that was the problem.
I wouldn’t let him touch the offense but his defenses have been very consistent stopping the pass which is exactly what Dallas doesn’t do.
by Fan in Thick and Thin on Jan 5, 2011 7:17 PM CST up reply actions
Cool, and sorry for the double post,
bad internet
What's this? Mcnabb's been benched and Vick can't have a puppy? Now if Eli could just get coal in his stockings I'd have a Merry Christmas.
Disclaimer: Don’t listen to me I usually make bad decisions. Don’t take advice while operating machinery. Do not listen if you are pregnant or may become pregnant. See your GM for more advice
Why is it people want Fox?
That’s a serious question, and I’m not trying to be antagonistic?
What redeeming qualities does he have, I’ll admit I’m a relative newcomer to the NFL, but Carolina had the worst record in the NFL, and he’s about to be fired. What makes him attractive?
What's this? Mcnabb's been benched and Vick can't have a puppy? Now if Eli could just get coal in his stockings I'd have a Merry Christmas.
Disclaimer: Don’t listen to me I usually make bad decisions. Don’t take advice while operating machinery. Do not listen if you are pregnant or may become pregnant. See your GM for more advice
Fox Rox!!!
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
The Dallas Cowboys will win SuperBowl XLVI.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Every offseason brings hope anew!
Still leading the league in smiles
by accidental innuendo on Jan 5, 2011 6:30 PM CST up reply actions
Plus the chance to stake a dibs claim.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
And a fresh batch of Kool Aid
Oh, hell, pour me a glass.
If at first you don't succeed - blame someone else.
Mind it in this tasty nutty amber ale flavor I'm partial to?
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
This was awesome
I kept waiting to hit something that I disagreed with or didn’t like, but I never did. Davin Joseph would be the ULTIMATE free agency prize. Guy is ENTERING his prime at one of our biggest positions of need.
I personally would be shocked if Ngata left Baltimore. I have read all of your reasoning for this, but I just don’t see it happening. Franklin seems more realistic and he’s still someone I’d be very happy with.
I think that Terence is still here next season. I think Jerry is too committed to his guys for him to not be. Heck, I even have my worries that both Leonard AND Colombo will both be here again next year. And if that’s possible, Newman will definitely be back.
I definitely think that another Center will greatly help our OL for the exact reason you stated: intelligence. It has been my belief that our OL struggles generally in instances where they’re outsmarted. A good, intelligent Center can help this dramatically, and I can’t wait until we have one.
All of that said, I do think that unless AOA has instilled some confidence in the coaches, Safety needs to be addressed in some way. The defense will not fully recover until we have average (or better) safety play.
Careful...that would make YOU wrong about everything too!!!
Anyway, so Brian Lainhart is 6’1" and about 205. He’s smart but not a freakish athlete. He reminds me of Eric Weddle. The kind who’s always around the ball and helps players get lined up right.
Most people have had a chance to see Quinton Carter. He will likely be gone when we pick in round 3.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Intelligence? Center?
His name’s Wisniewski. Just a shame he’s too high to suit our most expected plannings.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Yeah, late 1st, early second for him?
Great bloodlines too.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Yeah. As you said, late 1st, early 2nd. Shame.
Be interesting to see after the declares are in (due 15th; wihdrawal 18th) and what the post-Combine standings are.
Seen some predictions of him going someplace I’d really dislike seeing him being. Reallllly.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Cowboys won't sign that many FAs
I’m thinking an OL, safety and maybe LB or DL and thats pretty much it. The rest of the new players will be 2011 draftees.
In Romo we Trust
I’m going to have to disagree on a few key points here.
Firstly, Terence Newman has been money this year. Sadly enough, he was the most consistent corner of the year despite Scandrick coming on towards the last half of 2010. He had a rib injury but he was still out there making plays. He’s never been a ball hawk type corner but he’s definitely a starting corner in the NFL. Drew Pearson has said as much, and I wholeheartedly agree. He’s got great technique and a veteran savvy that enables him to still be an above average cover corner and in addition he’s made some pretty good open field tackles this year. He’s not great though, the double moves will burn him but that’s something I blame on our coaches. Mr. Campo, you know that D-Jackson’s bread and butter is going to be either a fly (or go) route or a double move. That should have been drilled into our secondary’s heads during the week. As far as playing 10 yards off from a receiver, that’s to make up for the weak safety play; the big play scared our DCs and with good reason. Nothing more and nothing less, I wouldn’t read too much into that either. Just look at Jenks, he played off a lot. On a side note, what’s up with him complaining about the zone coverage? News flash, you better be able to play any type of coverage and be good at it if you want to get paid in this league; we didn’t give up a first round draft pick for a corner that plays zone worse than a fifth rounder from the same draft class.
Blings, I just think it’s odd how you can point to Mike Jenkins and say that he’s had a down year and will bounce back and yet are so critical of T-New. I am however, ready to accept the fact that the injuries may be starting to add up too much for a technician and we may have to look for a replacement soon, but it’s absurd to think T-New has hit the proverbial wall and should be hitting the streets soon. I think we can still get a good two or three years of production from him before it’s time to talk about parting ways. If we wind up drafting Amukamara (who I feel may go before Peterson depending on what the Broncos decide, a more natural corner) then I’d be willing to part with T-New.
I don’t understand all of the obsession with drafting a new defensive lineman. Do we need a greater pass rush? Of course, but let’s not put the cart before the horse. Let’s say if we can cover for a few seconds longer than the pass rushers we have will be able to hit home. What’s the difference between Spencer’s blazing second half of 2009 and his 2010 season? Terrible secondary play. They don’t call him “Almost” Anthony for no reason. If the quarterback doesn’t have a quick outlet for his pass, that almost turns into a sack. Simple really. I have a hunch if you look at pressures and sacks we’re definitely in the top half of the league. With Stephen Bowen, Sean Lissemore (who had pretty good pressure before he was injured, to Lissy’s chagrin), Josh Brent, and Spears coming back next year full force I feel like our defensive line will be good to go. I feel like a lot of people see all the glitzy names on the Giant’s defensive line and get enamored, but you know what the knock in New York is? That they put too much focus up front. I’ve heard from a few different sources that the Giants need to stop drafting the front and focus on the rest of their defense. For all of the Mathias Kiwanukas, Justin Tucks, Jason Pierre Pauls, and Chris Cantys (?, well maybe Chris Cantys lol) the Giants’ defense is smack dab in the middle of the league. They had 46 sacks this year but didn’t about 8 of them come in one night against the Bears? We played the Bears too, and we were getting crazy pressure until they went max protect and we blew all of our coverages. I saw a lot of max protects this year. You can max protect and send out 2 receivers and a tight end with success against a terrible pass defense, and then you’ll have 7 guys in blocking for the quarterback. You can argue that a better pass rush will cover up a weaker pass defense, but the same argument can be had on the other side. A better pass defense will give more time for a weaker pass rush to attack. It also wears out the offensive linemen as the game progresses if you can substitute a few different defensemen to keep them fresh against the same five guys on the line.
In the NFL you can blitz as hard as you want, but we saw the antithesis to that with our own eyes. Our line is terrible, but a good enough offensive scheme will work around that. Our right side is a sieve, and we faced some excellent defenses on the year. Quick dump offs, screens, and having good blocking tight ends and backs will neutralize a good rush. I guarantee it. An average pass rush would have looked unstoppable against our offensive line, but we managed to neutralize a great deal of good rushes this year just by scheme alone. Just take a look at where Jason Pierre Paul, Mathias Kiwanuka, Chris Canty, and Justin Tuck were on that screen to Felix. About 15 yards away just watching him break away for a touchdown.
Also, it can’t be stated enough how terrible our blitz packages were. So predictable, it was almost disgusting. I think if we can start disguising the blitz and be unexpected it’ll go a long way towards alleviating our lack of sacks this year.
What do I think will help? Easy, we need to draft the linebacker Von Miller in the first round. He’s a good pass rusher and this year he’s shown that he’s also phenomenal at dropping back into coverage. We’ll see how that translates into the NFL, but I can almost guarantee that he’ll be an instant upgrade over Spencer, Brooking, and James in that regard. He’s a bit undersized but not exceptionally so to be a 3-4 linebacker. With Von Miller we could intrinsically shore up the middle of our defense against the pass and also bolster our pass rushing prowess. It’s win, win. Imagine a five man blitz with Sean Lee and Von Miller covering the tight ends and running backs and both of them just ready to blow up a screen for either a no gain or a loss of yardage. Just having those two alone to take away the short to intermediate routes for the TEs / RBs is going to make our entire defense look a lot better. Trust me. It also wouldn’t hurt to have Von Miller take the place of Brooking on those blitzes. We all remember Brookings lining up about an inch from the line of scrimmage and charging in like a maniac only to get stone walled by the freaking running back. Yeah, that won’t happen anymore. That’ll be what we call in the league a “mismatch”, a running back trying to block Miller. It will be glorious.
I’m still on board taking Peterson in the first if he falls to us (not likely) and making him into a beast of a Free Safety. Exhibits A through Z, Troy Palumalu. Otherwise though, I’d have to go for Miller.
Also, as has been mentioned before there’s likely going to be an inclusion to protect players from getting cut willy nilly with no cap ramifications. You call it an assumption, I call it an educated guess seeing as how that’s the only way the players can protect themselves in the face of an 18 week regular season. What that probably means for us is having to stomach more Roy Williams (likely, unfortunately), possibly more Marc Colombo (although I can see us giving Marc the Flozell treatment, fortunately), and possibly more Marion the Barbarian (although I think Jason Garrett will make it a personal point to cut him) so we’re not eating up our cap by cutting all of these outrageous contracts with no gain in return. I’m just saying, don’t be surprised to see a few of the usual suspects back in the lineup for next year; and inversely don’t be surprised to see more reserved activity in free agency.
What I liked about your strategy though, was going after the younger offensive lineman who still have a lot of upside and won’t command prohibitive contracts in the open market. I also like picking up a few corners in the later rounds and seeing if we can turn any of them into gems.
First, I appreciate the fact that you took the time for such a detailed comment...
Second, you are seeing something I may not be.
Newman’s cushions continue to grow. I will never profess to know whether it is the injuries, the age or just the natural progression of a CB in their 30’s. But regardless, Newman looks stiff to me. He’s not the athlete he once was. When receivers make cuts on him, they get huge separation because he just can’t mirror. So he may have been consistent but, to me, he was consistently bad.
I agree with you that T-New is still a heady player and in zone coverage, he will be fine. But I wouldn’t have him attempt to play press coverage anymore.
On the point about Jenkins, I think he was our best CB in 2009. I think every single player on the defense saw their individual performance in decline in 2010, so it’s hard to use that as any kind of measuring stick. Jenkins is very young, still learning the nuances of his position and has elite athletic ability.
G_SWAG, we’ve spent a ton of high picks on the LB’s and CB’s over the last decade. The defense has never been stifling. Teams like Pittsburgh (Hampton, Hood and Keisel), the Giants (Tuck, Cofield, Kiawanuka, Canty, JPP) and the Eagles (Laws, Patterson, Bunkley, Abiamiri, Gocong, Graham) all have stalwart defenses and they focus, in FA and the Draft, on building their D-lines first and subsequently finding the right guys in FA and the draft who cover, but not UNTIL they feel they have their defensive fronts covered. Even though I shudder to mention it, the last semi-dynasty in NE had invested three #1 draft picks on their DE’s and NT (Warren, Wilfork and Seymour) and trading Seymour away probably cost them a title shot last year. Those three funneled runners to the ILB’s and they penetrated on passing downs. It’s a strategy that makes sense and has empirical support behind it.
You may be right about the new contract and salary purges. I think that is one Demaurice Smith will end up having the final say on, if only because of how it impacts the vets.
I cannot support any strategy that involves drafting ANOTHER LB. I’ve made my point about the D-line, but the O-line is in disrepair on the right side and there are no viable replacements waiting in the wings. Each of our LB’s has a backup that would not be a boat anchor to this defense. That is, if Ware or Spencer went down, Butler is there. Lee is there if Bradie goes out or Brooking retires. To chase someone like Miller would be chasing shiny things, IMO.
The other element that has to be taken into consideration is the 2009 draft debacle and how Cisky is not in a position (doesn’t mean he won’t do it) to go back to the same freakin’ well whle the aformentioned trenches continue to suffer mightily. Every color guy from Moose to Goose to Troose (okay, that didn’t work as well as it should have) has commented about how QB’s have too much time playing the Cowboys and the answer is not chasing another rush LB, it’s replacing the JAGs playing alongside Ratliff.
The tried and true MO for building a dynasty is build from the lines outward. That’s what I’m advocating because games are still won and lost in the trenches.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
G_S - you had me for the most part
I am very concerned about this sudden obsession with a top-flite DE’s as the cure-all for our Defense. Couldn’t agree more that personnel improvements to the back end, will greatly aid the front end of the unit. The logic of arguing the converse does not stand up. Especially appreciate the Spencer insight to strengthen the point.
You lost me though on the Miller pick at #1. Agree Peterson would be a dream choice if we believe he can convert to S. That’s where a Todd Bowles as DC could make a difference.
I keep telling anyone who cares to listen we need to carpet bomb the OLine in the Draft. There’s plenty of talent available and we have plenty of needs – starters and for depth. It’s been neglected too long. . At the risk of starting a distracting debate, I believe this is where the organization has failed Tony Romo, yet mostly you hear the flip side of that from his detractors.
What’s the common link between the OLine and Safety issues – the consistent inability, almost refusal of Management to draft at a high level for the positions – preferring to try and do it on the cheap. Well, we got what we paid for.
Lastly, it will be interesting in seeing if/how the sudden entry of V Young into the market affects the teams picking in front of DAL. Lacking a clear vision for what FA will look like, that picture becomes more clouded.
We live life forwards and understand it backwards
I agree philosophically
…but sadly, this isn’t the draft to carpet bomb O-line.
There are no Ryan Clady’s or Joe Thomas’ in this draft. Most of the better lineman in this draft look like 2nd round ORT’s in most other O-line-rich classes.
In the draft, you go to where the richness of talent is, and unfortunately for Dallas, this one is clearly not a good draft for safeties and O-line. On the other hand, there are a ton of D-lineman that could be NFL stars for the next decade, probably more in this class than any one in a decade. This class also has 5 potential 1st round QB’s in it. It’s also a great class for WR’s, again unfortunately. Of those three positions, Dallas would do well to look at DL in round 1.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
And that is where BPA has failed for DAL
It is an opportunistic, therefore tactical approach to talent acquisition. While building a strong OL, last line of Defense serves strategic objectives such as, ’I’m going to Run/Pass efficiently/successfully’ and ’we’re going to defend the Run/Pass successfully.’
And these 2 problem areas are exacerbated by the ongoing neglect to the point where their prioritization must now become disproportional. It is simply unsustainable to continue the status quo. Results equal to or less than the current will completely undermine the strategic objectives – win your division, make the playoffs, HFA for the playoffs, etc., etc.
In terms of specific talent available for our areas of need, I can’t help but think of a saying I’ve used in the office more than a few times – ‘You can’t let best get in the way of better.’ Unfortunately, it applies all too well to this circumstance.
We live life forwards and understand it backwards
Do you think Dallas has used the BPA strategy in the last several drafts?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
without having their draft board at hand for the drafts before 2009...
I think Dallas was extremely happy with Dez and Lee from that standpoint.
I think we were also very happy with Jenkins and Felix. And Anthony Spencer. The teams BPA has luckily fallen at positions of need.
After the first round, I’m not so sure.
Is Lee made of glass?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Porcelain, maybe. It's not really clear yet.
Hope not.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Did he ever make it through a full week of practice and a full game?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Maybe one week or a bit more.
Little dings that kept happening, Like the “knock” on him coming out of college. Still hoping it’s not the case.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
It just seemed like...
every good play was immediately followed by him leaving the field seeing double, drooling, clutching a limb, whatever. Then he was held out of practice, made it back and then wash, rinse, repeat.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Sure does.
All I got’s hope the fragility evaluation coming out doesn’t bite us. Though, it’d serve us right for ignoring widely-accepted grounds.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
He was a Phillips pick for sure...
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
hes also plays much faster and more agressively than any lber we've had in a long time....
criticism of Lee is premature. I know I said this about the 2009 draft too, but you really can’t evaluate a draft one year in.
You know who else has been fragile? Dez. But that doesn’t mean he will stay that way.
Dez has a bum ankle that needs to heal
On Lee, he’s had the knee, the shoulder, the concussion…
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Exactly! They're rookies
Miles was ‘always’ dinged in his 1st couple years.
Of course, maybe with a full TC in pads and technique, Lee’ll learn to hit and live through it. And Dez will learn to play without completely sacrificing his body every time. I mean look at what has seemingly happened to MB3.
When in doubt, empty your magazine
The difference...
at least in my eyes, is that Lee was also hurt in college and Dez wasn’t (he missed games for “other” reasons).
I hope I am wrong about Lee, but the early returns suggest he might be fragile.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
I thought the only thing in college was the ACL?
Were there other dings as well?
When in doubt, empty your magazine
He sprained the same knee the following year
I think he had an ankle injury as well.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Porcelain's unclear. Dainty or toilet-tough.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Yeah, then I see your point
Hopefully a full TC under Joe Juraszek will strengthen the legs. i know my knee is more stable when I keep up the weight training & a lot of stretching – LOL, not that I’m equating my training with Joe’s camp, but mine was an ACL also.
Just a small tangential note, it’s amazing what they can do with ligament injuries now. I tore my right ACL in 1986 so badly it was replaced with a donor ACL (yeah, that’s the creepy part, I have a dead person’s ACL in my right knee. But I’m planning on giving back, I’m a full organ donor, driver’s license and my will)
When in doubt, empty your magazine
And he had a ton of "other" nicks this year
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
In the higher rounds, yes
Dez, Lee perfect examples. Year before, not so much, but the pick cupboard a pretty light.
We live life forwards and understand it backwards
2008? 2007?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Perhaps - never said it was universal
The Spencer pick looked to be BPA overdone, especially coming on the heels of a #1 LB pick the year prior.
The overall emphasis on LB during the Wade era
The combination of Jones and Choice looks suspicious as well.
We live life forwards and understand it backwards
Each one of those you cited look like something antithetical to BPA
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
EGGGG-ZACKLY!!!!
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
How basketly of you.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
td, re: Jones/Choice
How do you mean “looks suspicious”? On both?
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Both
Taking Choice at #4, when to my knowledge there was no overt strategy for a 3 man RB committee
We live life forwards and understand it backwards
Agree again
tdships is EN FUEGO!!!
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Can't argue the reasoning.
Glad we got him though. Gonna take heat, but more so than Felix. Not saying he’s not good, Jones that is.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Whoops, dammit. Can't = Won't.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Well I think the flirtation was with Fairley or Bowers (both elite players in this draft).
Fairely because of how awesome he could be next to Ratliff and Bowers because of how much he could do from 3-4 DE to a DE on a four man line. I think most on this site would by no means simply want a DE with that first round pick no matter what since I don’t think a guy like Adrian Clayborn is anywhere near worth that pick.
Formerly Cowboyfan729
If I had a nickel for every time the Eagles won the Super Bowl, I would have zero nickels
Ok, letting the cat out of the bag...
Bowers, 3-4 DE, 4-man line DE, OLB. My position potential reasoning for the pick.
This despite mdlusk’s much-appreciated and fine Clemson-fan insights here.
Been holding back to do an overall draft/FA/roster analysis for 2011 and maybe do a post on results, but what better way to refine my thinking than the trial-by-fire brain-storming of your scathing insights. Post likely wouldn’t get done anyways.
Beat me up.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Most people don't like Clayborn
Any Iowa fans on here?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
I'm kind of scared about his red flag
He’s sick, some sort of palsy that weakens his right arm.
He’s also a more limited pass rusher, most of what he does comes from using the bull rush. Meanwhile, you have guys like Fairley, Bowers and Jordan that have more versatility.
Those are the 2 things.
Arnold, almost 5 years of good memories, you'll be missed.
Viva México! Go Cowboys!
That's good info, Chandus
Do you think he’ll fall as a result?
Do you like Cam Heyward too? He had a tremendous bowl game.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
I don't like Heyward as a first round pick.
The guy had four sacks his senior year and only 15 in 4 years of playing. That isn’t even Marcus Spears production and he went at #20 when we picked him. I just see Heyward as another JAG on the D-line. I will say though that my opinion could change a little if he kills the combine.
Formerly Cowboyfan729
If I had a nickel for every time the Eagles won the Super Bowl, I would have zero nickels
To really sum this up,
I am not a fan of taking a DE in the first round whose main weapon as a DE in college was strength. I just don’t feel that those guys really turn into great pass rushers worth 1st round picks since they can’t just overpower people in the NFL. This label applies both to Cam Heyward and Adrian Clayborn in my opinion.
Formerly Cowboyfan729
If I had a nickel for every time the Eagles won the Super Bowl, I would have zero nickels
In today's NFL you need suddenness and speed to be a great pass rusher.
Formerly Cowboyfan729
If I had a nickel for every time the Eagles won the Super Bowl, I would have zero nickels
I'm on board with you
So what about Jordan or Dareus?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Dareus is not a guy I am that high on
although he did work in a different system than Clayborn or Heyward. Dareus just seems too big with not enough athleticism. If you take away the one great play against Texas in the NC, I am not sure he is a top ten prospect. He looks like he could be a great run stopper at the next level but that is honestly not what Dallas needs out of its first round pick.
As for Jordan, I haven’t really made up my mind on him. Wes Bunting has been on his bandwagon big time and if what Bunting says is true (Bunting says he has been the second most dominating lineman in CFB) than certainly I think Dallas should take a look at him. Personally though, I just haven’t seen him or even watched highlights so I don’t have a good gut feeling on him yet.
Formerly Cowboyfan729
If I had a nickel for every time the Eagles won the Super Bowl, I would have zero nickels
So you'll sign off on Fariley or Bowers and that's it
No other DE’s?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
I think i could sign off on Cameron Jordan as well.
Formerly Cowboyfan729
If I had a nickel for every time the Eagles won the Super Bowl, I would have zero nickels
I dunno
He never faired all that well against top OT’s…not that he faced many, but still.
This was a pac-10 conference that he should have had Bowers-like #’s against.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Well Bowers's numbers were pretty incredible.
But still, Jordan did what he did in a different system under different demands and I have to say that I like that his production didn’t decline after he lost his line teammate Tyson Alualu to the NFL (where he has had a pretty good rookie year in Jacksonville). And as for the Pac-10 knock, I definitely don’t think it is a strong conference, but it isn’t like he put up his career 16 sacks against MAC competition. I can’t say I would exactly love to take Jordan at #9, but I do think he is a pretty decent prospect.
Formerly Cowboyfan729
If I had a nickel for every time the Eagles won the Super Bowl, I would have zero nickels
I will say this about Jordan.
Looking at some more stuff about him, two things jump out at me. First, he looks very athletic. His build is tall, lean and he just looks like a pass-rushing DE. Secondly, it is extremely impressive to me that he had 16 sacks in 3 years of starting. That is very impressive to me because he did that from playing in a 3-4 and playing all over the 3-man line.
Formerly Cowboyfan729
If I had a nickel for every time the Eagles won the Super Bowl, I would have zero nickels
He had a few sacks off of the nose
What about trading down and landing a guy like Allen Bailey?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Bailey worries me a bit.
He just seems like a very inconsistent player. As far as pro prospects go, I think his teammate Brandon Harris is going to be a pretty darn good CB.
Formerly Cowboyfan729
If I had a nickel for every time the Eagles won the Super Bowl, I would have zero nickels
For what it's worth
I completely enjoy these kind of exchanges and think this is what the essence of BTB is all about. Thoughtful, informative and passionate, they have made me consider positions I normally might not and even come around on some of my thinking. Which for an elder, stubborn, Yankee Irish like me is a rare thing indeed.
We live life forwards and understand it backwards
by tdships on Jan 6, 2011 11:25 AM CST reply actions 1 recs
Whereas I stubbornly maintain precisely the opposite view...
with regard to the entirety of your comment.
Yet another example of my wholly unjustifiable BS. Or perhaps, relying on changing “Yankee Irish” to 2 other words to have your words suit me also to a “T” as my reversing “out”.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
LOL, now that's funny
It would take so many more words to describe me. I’m pretty much a Heinz 57 American ;-)
When in doubt, empty your magazine
Perfect. The great melting pot personified.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Thread hijacking - but this got me to thinking so I figured it out as best I could
From Great Grantparents to me:
3/8 Scot, 1/4 Welch, 1/8 French, 1/8 Austrian, and lastly from our own land 1/8 Apache
So, yeah, I cannot describe myself in 2 words, well, maybe, Southern Redneck ;-) But that’s more an attitude than a heritage ;-)
When in doubt, empty your magazine
Human being.
With 2 quotes in-hand proving my assertion beyond the breeding blending.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
This is super similiar to your "Tearing down the house"
Still, pretty legit.
Since FTIT called you out 5Blings, I came to pay homage to you for calling the “Jim Harbaugh for an NFL HC”
Right now he is the most chic thing since toilet paper.
2010 Fantasy Football champion for the BTB League on Yahoo!
Thanks man, because I am usually wrong about everything...
:-)
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Oh, don't get me started
I have some choice block quotes on you, brother!
:-)
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
LOL?
the most chic thing since toilet paper
Very strange compliment?
When in doubt, empty your magazine
I know how it looks, I really do. Think critically though.
Are we really that far off on the offensive line? Look at it this way, if we can nab Youngblood or Joseph to play right tackle in free agency I wouldn’t mind seeing Montrae Holland in there as our right guard. If we manage to draft Carimi, Ben Ijalana or Marcus Cannon (in order of preference) to plug in at right guard or tackle would I be ecstatic? Yes, I certainly would, with that said though we shouldn’t draft any of the tackles in the first round, at least not to be our right tackle. We need to draft to improve our pass defense and pass rush because our defense is our Achilles’ heel. Jason Garrett has produced more with less than any other offensive coordinator in this league.
I hear draft Sherrod and move Doug Free to right tackle; really though Free shouldn’t go anywhere, this guy’s young and is going to be our left tackle for a long time. I really don’t worry about the other team’s best pass rusher because outside of a missed chop block and a missed snap count how many low lights have we seen from Free? Exactly. We shouldn’t waste our first round draft pick on a right tackle, because we can easily find one in free agency or the second round of the draft to put in there and they will be an upgrade over what we have now. We can address our left guard in the future, but the only thing that scares me about losing out on Kosier is that he makes all the line calls. Gurode is a liability to me because he can’t make his own calls and isn’t necessarily great at snapping but physically this guy’s still got it. Pro Bowler? Maybe not, but he grades out as a good center and that’s because physically he’s still got the tools to be good; although the mental aspect is a different story. Let’s just worry about replacing Davis and Colombo this off season and then find upgrades to Kosier and Gurode later, if it turns out we don’t actually already have them on our roster.
Which brings me to my next point, you guys really seem to forget we’ve got a few gamers coming up on the line. Give Sam Young and Phil Costa a good off season of working out under Joe and intensive offensive line coaching from Hudson Houck (if that is indeed who comes back, feel free to sub in Sparano) in some contact practices and I really do feel we’ve got the next set of Doug Frees waiting in our wings. In 2012 we may have a line that’s Doug Free, Sam Young, Phil Costa, Marcus Cannon, and Joseph that could be among the best and the youngest in the league.
On the other hand though, you can call our pass rush ineffective but do you know who we’ve got in coverage during our nickel situations? Keith Brooking’s corpse. I would check down and throw it at number 51 every time if I was a quarterback coming up against the Cowboys. Just look at our last few games. You see 51 and 50 (Sean Lee) out there in our nickel zone coverage, and typically after a third down conversion you don’t have to look too far to see 51 lagging behind the play the other team just made. You know how big of an indictment that is on Brady James and Leon Williams?
You’re on the bench while the old man plays your snaps during passing situations. Pathetic. We need Von Miller. If your argument is that we’ve spent too many first round picks on linebackers my argument is that because we keep missing on them it’s even more important that we get it right this time. Just look at the Colt’s game. Didn’t our defense look stout when Sean Lee was out there making plays at ILB? Oh yes indeed. Imagine two inside linebackers like that, because Von Miller is a top ten pick. He’s got that type of talent, right now he’s miraculously (it’s a sign) number 9 on Mel Kiper’s Big Board. He’s proven this year that he’s really, really good at coverage where he’s been traditionally seen as a pass rushing LB.
Now just imagine this, it’s third and ten. Cowboys call a five man blitz using their outside linebackers. Sean Lee and Von Miller are tight on their coverage. Scandrick, Newman, and Jenkins getting good press and receiving decent safety help over the top.
Rushing you have Jay Ratliff eating up (and possibly beating) two blocks. Sean Lissemore, Josh Brent and/or Stephen Bowen (depending on who’s in for defensive ends) eating up and possibly beating their block. Demarcus Ware eating up (again, possibly beating) two blocks. Who’s going to block Spencer? That’s seven blockers that are going to have to account for 4 guys essentially. The only problem this year is that the quarterback can hit a tight end or a slot receiver and nullify our rush easily. Not with Von Miller and Sean Lee shutting down routes from the ILB position.
I know it may pain guys to think this but who else is our big departure on defense?
Ken Hamlin … and … ?
Ken Hamlin and … ?
Ken Hamlin and?
Ken Hamlin and Barbie Carpenter.
That’s right, I said it. We missed Barbie covering tight ends in nickel situations. It may have had a domino effect that wasn’t readily apparent until it was too late with Sean Lee hurt all the freaking time. An average safety who could read defenses and a wholly terrible ILB who was actually fairly good at pass coverage led to the collapse of the defense of the Dallas Cowboys. We are literally one of the worst defenses in the league.
In fact, if you look at the disparity in our defensive unit it shows something remarkable. Per profootballreference.com our defense as a whole is ranked the 31st defense in the league. Only the Denver Bronco’s defense was worse. And yet, if you look at the rushing stats against us they were fine. Teams rushing against us only gained 1700 yards. That’s good for 12th best in the league. Teams only rushed for 11 touchdowns against us. That’s tied with the Giants and the Jets. If we’re literally near the top 10 in the league in defense against the rush and we’re dead last against the pass you really think it’s a good idea to draft a defensive end to fix our pass defense? You think we have a problem in our trenches? Seriously?
Seriously?
Anyways my draft goes like this. Barring Peterson being available for us – get Von Miller in the first, one of the top offensive lineman available in the second, hopefully we can trade back up and get one of the “top” safeties that are supposed to go in the second (Black for example). From there I’d like to see a corner, defensive end, slot receiver, and another running back (assuming Barber gets cut) using our BPA in any particular order.
You’re now looking at a playoff contender in the year 2011.
by G_SWAG on Jan 7, 2011 5:06 AM CST reply actions 1 recs
Interesting...
I am not that high on this year’s O-line draft crop.
I would not move Free at all. The less shuffling the better.
I’m not sure I agree with you on the TE coverage thing, but I need more info before I answer with any authority. Namely, how did opposing TE’s do against us in 2010 vs. 2009? In my mind, guys like Cooley, Celek and Boss had better years against us last year and guys like Nicks, D-Jack and Maclin had better years against us this year. I could be wrong…
Still not bying Miller but loved this;
right now he’s miraculously (it’s a sign) number 9 on Mel Kiper’s Big Board.
On the other hand, I am surprised at this comment…
you really think it’s a good idea to draft a defensive end to fix our pass defense? You think we have a problem in our trenches? Seriously?
Absolutely! I think you are still thinking in Wade-terms about the role of the DE in a 3-4. In addition, you’re (WE’RE) spoiled by the pentration we get from Ratliff, when in fact we get it. In the Pitt, NE and NYJ 3-4’s, the DE’s have to create middle pressure and force the QB to the edges where players with far less talent than D-Ware, Spencer and Butler are there. In fact, if any of our DE’s were good enough to command a double team, you’d have real problems doubling both Ratliff and the new guy while trying to subdue Ware on the edge. That’s the heart of my D-line upgrade strategy – find a rookie DE who commands a double team and force opposing teams to keep their TE in to block (then your comments about Barbie…whether they have veracity or not…are non-starters).
Also, this love for Black at safety is not well-placed IMO. What 5’9" safety is tearing up the league right now? No, gimme a bigger body there because I know how much havoc Indy suffers through with a guy like sanders constantly being in and out of the lineup.
the greatest CBs in the NFL have the ability to stay with their man for .5 to 1.5 seconds longer than their CB counterparts. Too often, Dallas gave opposing QB’s 2+ seconds more than they should have had and even your guy Peterson will look like a bust if that doesn’t get fixed without having to bring more than 5 on any down.
No more JAGs at DE please…
Weren’t we a playoff contender before the season started? :-)
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
by 5Blings on Jan 7, 2011 1:44 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
Well there’s more than one way to skin a cat.
You want a defensive end that can rush and I agree with you; but to me having a defensive end that can rush is going to be a moot point when a quick dump off gains great yardage. Again, look at Jason Garrett’s game plans. A good scheme will effectively neutralize the defensive front in the passing game, although for the rush you still need a big push from the offensive line. That’s why the Cowboys had the eighth best offense in the league per PFR, sixth best passing yardage in the NFL and the seventh most passing touchdowns in the league with 29 (we had more passing touchdowns than the Eagles), while conversely only having ten rushing touchdowns (tied for 20th in the league) but still putting up the seventh most points offensively in the league (394, same as the Giants). All of this with a one legged man at RT and the Blob (X-men reference) at RG.
How about this, Cowboys O vs the Cowboys D. You don’t think Anthony Spencer could eat Colombo’s lunch on a blitz? What about Bowen, he’s inconsistent but he would probably look like one of the top DEs in the league against Davis. It would definitely take Gurode and Kosier to take on Ratliff. Where does that leave Spears? Hopefully Doug Free could contain Ware, I’m sure he’d win a few of those match ups. We’d probably still need Bennett into block. So in this theoretical situation you have your pass rush. Facing such inferior linemen on the right side I really do believe either Bowen or Spencer would break through every time, and that Ratliff or Ware would break in every once in a while. Tell you what though, our offense would still school our defense. Jason Witten would laugh at Keith Brooking. Jones would blow by Brady James on a screen. Dez would probably get a PI called for him against Jenkins, then make the catch anyways and push Alan Ball into the dirt on his way to the end zone. Austin would leave Newman dazed with his route running prowess, and Sensaballs would be sucking dirt after he took a bad angle on him. Roy Williams would probably get shut down by Scandrick, and then when he does try to make a catch on a slant have it hit him in the hands while he’s got a big poo eating grin on his face. Hate that guy.
I digress though, think of it in those terms and then try to see where our defensive priorities lie.
And are you sure that our players at inside linebacker didn’t hurt us? It had a good deal to do with why we lost the Bears game. Do you remember that? We had the Bears right where we wanted them until a huge dump off to their tight end Greg Olsen went for a touchdown. Guess who was supposed to be covering him? Keith Brooking.
What about the Redskin’s game? The game we almost lost, do you remember who was gashing the Cowboys near the end of the game? That’s right, it was Chris Cooley. I remember watching the game and the announcer asking why they hadn’t involved the tight end up until that point (when their offense got steam rolling). I know why, it’s because you keep Cooley in to block because our safety play was so pathetic. That frees up Keith Brooking to blitz, but he can easily be picked up by the TE or the RB. When our secondary stopped getting gashed they had to go to plan B, and that plan was to abuse our ILBs on coverage. Easy. Like I said, don’t let our middle of the road pass rush this year fool you; we faced a lot of max protection this year. Something teams try to avoid usually unless of course they have 3 receivers that will burn 3 corners and 2 terrible safeties. And did they ever. I don’t know how this doesn’t register to quite a lot of people but we had the 31st ranked defense in the league. Our defense was near top 10 against the rush. Mathematically it’s astonishing how terrible that means our pass defense was. In our defense the defensive front is there to stop the rush. They did that and did that well this year. When you have a 31st ranked defense but it’s near the top 10 defense against the rush your inherit flaw does not lie in the defensive front. By design we get our pass rush from our linebackers. It will work if the pass protection holds up long enough. Anthony will get there. Ware will get there. Sometimes Bowen, Brent, Lissy and even freaking Spears will get there too. If the tight end stays in to block, and our ILB stays in to rush – he should be able to get there!
What about the Eagles’ game? Is your pass rushing defensive end going to stop them from double teaming Jay Ratliff and running up the gut of our defense? Watching LeSean McCoy gash our inside was painful to watch. Da’Quan Bowers might make a stop in the backfield sometimes, but Spears does too. The trick is to have LBs that will make teams pay for double teaming our nose. You’ve got a guard and center trying to double team the NT (Jay), tackle against a RDE (Spears), a guard against a LDE (Spears), a tackle and presumably a fullback or tight end on our ROLB (Ware), and maybe another tight end on our LOLB (Spencer). That plays right into our ILB’s hands during running plays guys. They should be able to cut into path of the runner and take him down quickly. Unfortunately Keith Brooking can’t do it anymore. Sean Lee should be able to fill in quite nicely next year when he’s healthy and after strength and conditioning. Brady James can do it sometimes, but he’s a liability on the field in a lot of different situations.
And you’ve just hit the nail on the head with Black’s comparison. Bob Sanders is 5’8 and 205 pounds. You know what though? Guy has some of the freakiest injuries I’ve ever seen. I was watching the Colts when he got hurt this year, dude landed on his elbow and tore his bicep. But hey, Black’s actually a little bit bigger than Sanders and he’s held up just fine throughout College. You know what else? For a brief time in the beginning of the season I thought the Alan Ball experiment would work. The Cowboys can have a smaller safety in the backfield because typically our front seven is going to get the job done. We just need the FS to make last line of defense type tackles, and usually that’s against WRs. Heck, did you see Alan Ball make that read against Peyton Manning and come down with that pick? Black would probably make one of those reads every game. He’d be a game changer back there. Bob Sanders should have been the defensive MVP of the Superbowl the Colt’s won. He was huge for the defense.
The only thing that scared me about Von Miller though was watching him just get destroyed against the run. That might make me reevaluate him for our defensive needs, but if he can get coached in one of Jason Garrett’s physical camps how to make those tackles he’d be a perfect fit.
by G_SWAG on Jan 8, 2011 4:28 AM CST up reply actions 1 recs
Responses
You don’t think Anthony Spencer could eat Colombo’s lunch on a blitz?
Not really. He’s no Ray Edwards. He went up against some pretty average tackles this year and was invisible.
Screens and dump off’s?
I think Sean Lee was drafted for his smarts, awareness and tackling ability, so we should see if he can be THAT guy.
What about the Redskin’s game?
They in-line blocked our d-line in that game only doubling Ratliff and we got zero pressure. Go see what Spears and Super Human Strength (and zero production) did in that game. Put Bowers, Franklin and Ratliff alongside D-Ware and see how many passes Sexy Rexy completes from the prone position.
What about the Eagles’ game? Is your pass rushing defensive end going to stop them from double teaming Jay Ratliff and running up the gut of our defense?
Indeed. Compare Igor Olshansky and Shaun Ellis. Igor gives you 17 solo tackles and no sacks for the season. He is so seldom seen in the backfield that it is like kryptonite to him. Ellis gives you 26 solo tackles and 4.5 sacks on a team that has no one close to D-Ware’s skill level. Ellis penetrates, forces plays away from him and THAT is what this defense has lacked since Tuna decided to turn this into a 3-4 defense.
Miller is a one-trick pony that does his trick extremely well. Bowers changes the complexion of the entire defense.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
by 5Blings on Jan 8, 2011 11:35 AM CST up reply actions 1 recs
Thanks Lunch!
Sorry blings, but in 2009 Ray Edwards wasn’t quite the force from the DE position, he was about as game changing as Anthony Spencer was from the LB. Spencer finished with 6 sacks and Ray Edwards finished with 8.5 – but the funny thing is he got 3 of those against the Cowboys in the playoffs. Take those away and Spencer finished with a half a sack more on the year. I’m pretty sure Spencer would abuse Colombo, because everyone abuses Colombo. He’s the town bicycle NFL edition. In this scenario you’re going to have to roll with me my man, and give Spencer his due. He went up against some average tackles, but the quarterbacks they were guarding went up against some pretty horrendous pass defense.
Overall though I think you missed my point, we faced the type of fronts that you want to emulate. We faced the Titans, we faced the Giants, we faced the Lions. Those teams are all in the top 10 for sacks this year, and guess where Dallas ranked? 14th, we had 36 sacks this year good for the top half of the league. That’s actually not too shabby if you think about it. The Giants on the other hand had 46, Lions 44, and the Titans 40.
G-men got the fifth most sacks in the league this year, Lions ranked 6th, and the Titans 8th. That means all of those teams were in the top 10 of the NFL for sacks, and the Giants especially were not too far off from the first place Steelers’ 48. What does tipping your hat in the sack column get for them? Same place as Dallas, watching the playoffs from the house (mansion, whatever :P). Heck, I remember a second and ten where Anthony Spencer got a sack and they called pass interference we accepted (against the Saints I believe) and wiped that sack off the record books. In theory the Titans vaunted defensive line only hit home 3 more times than the ’boys.
And what about the Pat’s defense? The one you like to reference, with all of those studs on the line. Oh darn, they tied with Dallas for 14th, they got 36 sacks on the year too. I guess they need to draft another defensive end? What about the Ravens, they have one of the most consistently dominating defenses in this league. Heck, I would trade Dallas’ defense for the Raven’s any day. They must be getting all kinds of sacks from their .. oh wait, they only got 27 sacks on the year, they rank 29th in the league in that statistic. Surely there’s some mistake blings? They can’t possibly be the third ranked defense in the league (per profootballreference.com, same one that ranks Dallas at 31st) with such few sacks. Maybe they should trade Ray Lewis the LB for Shaun Ellis the DE?
There’s just more than one way to skin a cat. Let’s stop talking about shoring up our pass defense with a DE and shore up our pass defense by shoring up our pass defense (LBs, Safeties). Just extra food for thought for you, guess where majority of the Steelers’ 48 sacks came from? James Farrior the ILB got 6, James Harrison the OLB got 10.5, and LaMar Woodley the other OLB got 10, Lawrence Timmons the ILB got another 3. Nobody else got more than 2, but a few sacks came on corner and safety blitzes.
Also, for the record I want Olshansky gone! Maybe we can trade him to Houston for a vial of steroids taken out of their locker room. You know what though Blings, like I said before I see where you’re coming from. We should draft a stud defensive lineman in the first round. In the first round of the 2012 draft, because right now we really have more things to worry about when our pass defense is in the bottom of the league but our rush defense and sacks are actually near the top 10.
Miller is a one-trick pony that does his trick extremely well. Bowers changes the complexion of the entire defense.
Nah blings, you forget that Miller can drop back into coverage and rush the passer. That’s two tricks we’re in dire need of that he does well. If Miller gets 8 sacks from the ILB position and Bowers gets 8 sacks from the DE position (wishful thinking on both ends, obviously) then they both change the complexion of the entire defense. Bowers can’t drop into coverage though, and I’d much rather see Sean Lee and Von Miller dropped back in our base defense over Sean Lee and Keith Brooking / Brady James / Leon Williams. Our future may very well just be set at the ILB position. No more Zach Millers and Keith Brookings.
P.S. Lunch, I like Black and think he’s going to be a playmaker in the NFL but I’m not quite as sold on him. After we get Von Miller in the first and the best OT prospect available in the second we should just use BPA and our needs to draft.
by G_SWAG on Jan 9, 2011 4:47 AM CST up reply actions 1 recs
Shaking my head...
It’s too easy to simplify this thing into who has more sacks than whom, but that doesn’t do you any favors. Trying to correlate one performance metric with team playoff positioning is pretty silly…but you already knew that. Comparing the G-Men and their 10-6 with our 6-10 and saying we’re both in the same proverbial boat when the season is over? Saying the Lions should be playoff bound when they were 6th in sacks? I’m just going to leave that all alone, K?
Dallas had the same front 7 (except our best pass rusher didn’t miss any time) as the prior year and the sack numbers are different. Why? Scheme change? Nope. Injuries? Uh uh. Then why?
The answer may shock you. It’s because it was too easy to run on this defense in 2010. The 2009 version was 9th in rushing yards-per-attempt and the 2010 version was 19th!!! In terms of opponents play calling, they ran much more of a balanced offense against us in 2010 than in 2009 because of their ability to move the ball on the ground. It’s hard to win when you’re giving up more than 100 YPG on the ground. We held opponents to less than 100 YPG on the ground in 2009 and made it easier to defend the pass because of down and distance. This year, we gave up over 100 YPG and opponents were able to keep Wade’s group completely off balance and it exposed our secondary, which was weaker than in 2009 because of the Hamlin-to-Ball move.
That is my central point. The JAGs working alongside Ratliff were and will continue to be worthless. It’s the position on the team with the lowest talent-to-strategic importance ratio on the entire team. Therein lies the key to building a dominant defense.
Ratliff is the only one who can actually beat someone and make a play in the backfield. Dallas needs at least one more guy on that front who can do that and it is my belief that Ratliff CAN play DE effectively, that Aubrayo Franklin would be a tremendous NT for the next 5 years in Dallas and that a guy like Bowers allows people like Rat, Ware, Spencer, Butler and whoever plays next to him to be that much better.
Your fixation on Miller is fun…a lot like mine on Rahim Moore, but strategically, you cannot think in those terms as a GM. You have to think about building great line play first and then working your way outward toward the skill and secondary positions.
Lets talk about other teams…
The Pats – look what happened to their defense when they lost the best pass rushing 3-4 DE in the business. Their ability to penetrate became mediocre. Their defense became mediocre. And let’s not forget that none of the 3-4 teams in the AFC have a pass rusher in Ware’s league, including the Steelers. The problem is that middle-pressure is everything in this league, especially when QB’s are going more to 3 and 5-step drops. You have to make them move laterally and not let them get comfortable. Edge pressure can be neutralized by scheme but strength and speed up front serves more than one purpose. It allows you to stone the run game too!
I’m sorry, G, you could spend the rest of your days drafting LB’s so that one day you have Dick Butkus, Brian Urlacher, Von Miller and D_Ware playing LB for Dallas but they’d be getting toasted by opponents with Igor, Rat and Spears (and their backups) playing in front of them.
No soup for you!!!
:-)
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
by 5Blings on Jan 9, 2011 11:57 AM CST up reply actions 1 recs
Saying the Lions should be playoff bound when they were 6th in sacks? I’m just going to leave that all alone, K?
That wasn’t my point though – you seem to think a defensive end is going to be the end all be all for our defense but to me I’d rather have great safety play and athletic ILBs. I agree that we should go after Rahim Moore but I’m trying to be more realistic, he’s probably not going to be available to us where we’re picking in the second. If we can can nab him where we’re picking I’d rather have him than an OT prospect if we can go after an OL in free agency. Holland is serviceable.
Shaking my head…It’s too easy to simplify this thing into who has more sacks than whom, but that doesn’t do you any favors.
Why are you ignoring the numbers, the Steelers with the number one defense in the league and who run a 3-4 like the Cowboys; the team that got the most sacks in the league got 16 of those from their ILBs. How many did the Cowboys get? We got one. From Keith Brooking. That’s what your missing from this 3-4, pressure from the ILB position. They may not have Ware, but their OLBs combined for as many sacks as ours did. As a whole they got the same amount of production from their OLB position as we did.
You want to model ourselves after the best defense in the league? We’ve been playing with JAGs at ILB too man, as much as I love Brady James and Keith Brooking; it may be time for us to let Keith go and start grooming James replacement. If the Cowboys had 16 sacks from their ILBs they would have 52 sacks on the year. Just think about that for one second. Same defense ends, nose tackles, and outside linebackers but we’d instantly be number one in the sacks category.
And look at the Ravens, they’re near the bottom of the league in sacks but have one of the toughest defenses in the league. I know they’ve got one of the best NTs in the game, but so do we. I know Ratliff’s been getting doubled a lot, but really that’s what his job is. If he can beat double teams that’s awesome, but really if you’ve got a guard and a center on one man that leaves you vulnerable to the LBs; in other words the 3-4 in a nutshell.
So why do you just try to completely ignore something that’s absolutely relevant to our discussion about pressure? Sacks are important. If we had the ILB play of the Steelers’ we’d be the number one pressure defense in the league. If we had the ILB play of the Steelers’ we’d have a lot stouter middle. That’s why defenses were able to run on us so well, Keith Brooking lost his first and second steps. Spears was down, he was a top rated DE we drafted in the first round. Brady James is getting older. One DE on one side of the field isn’t going to fix our run defense blings, it will help but it won’t fix it.
Look, I’m not saying that we don’t have a problem at DE. I’m saying we have bigger problems else where.
by G_SWAG on Jan 9, 2011 3:30 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
Well, I think you may have made my point for me...
The Steelers play with two first round picks and a 7th rounder on their front 3.
The fact is that they got more sacks from just about EVERY position than Dallas, save for Ware’s. Did you compare the # of sacks by their DE’s as opposed to ours? If so, you saw a huge deficiency there as well, but neglected to even attempt to try and connect THOSE dots because they would erode your position greatly. So, I’m quite sure your analysis is too narrow to be even remotely compelling. In fact, it wasn’t that long ago that we were at the top of the sack list, right? Didn’t we have those same shabby ILB’s then?
As a footnote, I counted 10 between Farrior, Timmons, Foote, Fox and Sylvester for Pittsburgh…where did I miss?
As for JAGs, I think ILB is the one place you can get away with JAGs in a 3-4 and still have a great defense. On the other hand, those guys will be trying to tackle Brandon Jacobs one-on-one unless the talent at DE goes up, and I mean WAY up. Not so easy to have a shoddy MLB in a 4-3 when the MLB has to make the calls, generally speaking.
As for ignoring the ILB thing, I’d say Dallas did try to address the issue with Jason Williams and then Sean Lee. Lee, if he can stay on the field, looks like a good replacement and fit next to Bradie. Meanwhile, as you said,
we have bigger problems else where
For me, that somewhere else is at DE and OL.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
by 5Blings on Jan 9, 2011 5:30 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
Well, I think you may have made my point for me...
The Steelers play with two first round picks and a 7th rounder on their front 3.
The fact is that they got more sacks from just about EVERY position than Dallas, save for Ware’s. Did you compare the # of sacks by their DE’s as opposed to ours? If so, you saw a huge deficiency there as well, but neglected to even attempt to try and connect THOSE dots because they would erode your position greatly. So, I’m quite sure your analysis is too narrow to be even remotely compelling. In fact, it wasn’t that long ago that we were at the top of the sack list, right? Didn’t we have those same shabby ILB’s then?
As a footnote, I counted 10 between Farrior, Timmons, Foote, Fox and Sylvester for Pittsburgh…where did I miss?
As for JAGs, I think ILB is the one place you can get away with JAGs in a 3-4 and still have a great defense. On the other hand, those guys will be trying to tackle Brandon Jacobs one-on-one unless the talent at DE goes up, and I mean WAY up. Not so easy to have a shoddy MLB in a 4-3 when the MLB has to make the calls, generally speaking.
As for ignoring the ILB thing, I’d say Dallas did try to address the issue with Jason Williams and then Sean Lee. Lee, if he can stay on the field, looks like a good replacement and fit next to Bradie. Meanwhile, as you said,
we have bigger problems else where
For me, that somewhere else is at DE and OL.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
I’m quite sure your analysis is too narrow to be even remotely compelling.
Nah , I may have added a few sacks to their total inadvertently, but 10 sacks from the ILBs is nothing to shake a stick at. We had 1 from Keith Brooking who may not even be back, so just go ahead and add 9 to our 36 and we’d have 47 and be tied for 2nd as far as sacks in the league.
As for their defensive ends? Hood had 3, Keisel had 3, and Eason had 1.5. That’s 7.5 sacks from their DEs. Add in their NTs with 1 for Hampton and altogether their DL had 8.5 sacks.
This year the Cowboys had 1.5 sacks from Bowen, 3.5 from Ratliff, 1 from Olschansky, .5 from Lissemore, and 2 from Jason Hatcher. Altogether that means we had 8.5 sacks from our defensive line, but mark my words these young guys on our line are going to hit home a lot more next year.
So our DL got the exact same amount as the Steelers.
Our defensive line is servicable, like I keep telling you. I think our positions of need are first and foremost Safeties. That’s my number one position I wish we could shore up, the most critical being a Free Safety so we can end our abysmal experiment with Alan Ball. Secondly Offensive Line, that goes without say. Third we need to exhume Keith Brooking’s corpse from the field and let Brady James do what he does best and come in as a run stuffer outside of obvious passing situations. If anything that’s where the difference between the Steelers the ’boys comes in – we had similar production sacks wise from our secondary, our defensive line, and our outside linebackers. The only thing missing is the sacks from the inside linebacker position, and if you want to model yourself after the top 3-4 defense in the league look no further than Pittsburgh.
Unfortunately none of the safeties and offensive lineman grade out where we’re picking and that’s likely for a reason. I think that Von Miller is going to kill the combine and really solidify his status in the draft. Honestly I think I’d rather have a good SS so we can get Sensabaugh off the field before I’d take another DE. Then, after we get all of those positions fixed for next year we can take another DE.
by G_SWAG on Jan 10, 2011 3:48 AM CST up reply actions 1 recs
+1
This is also a deep draft for DEs. We can get one later in the draft for good value. I am with you, except I think safety need should be fixed in FA so we can get a veteran with one of our young guys (AOA, Church, McCray) our DLine will improve (if we resign Spears and Bowen) and let Brent and Lissemore continue to get better.
Our O-Line is old and will not get better next year. I think we must either trade down to get an extra 2nd and pick a OLineman in the 1st. Or just pick up the best linemen in the draft at #9. I have already seen Nate Solder rise as high as #11 on some boards. After the combine, I am sure the best OT will not be a huge reach at #9.
A lot of people assume we can fix OLine through FA (or even worse forgot about it as a need AGAIN) but with the uncertainty of CBA, salary cap, lockouts, I think this FA period will be strange and I would rather make sure we get at least one great young lineman in the draft.
"Football is an incredible game. Sometimes it's so incredible, it's unbelievable."
"Leadership is a matter of having people look at you and gain confidence, seeing how you react. If you're in control, they're in control." - Tom Landry
Okay, but wait...
So our DL got the exact same amount as the Steelers.
But our LEADING sack guy on the D-line was the NT. Can you show me any D-line in the history of the 3-4 defense where that was the case?
No, our D-line is an abomination.
I agree with you about Brooking, but don’t you think that is Lee’s job to lose? Seems like the reigns were being handed to him late in the season. If so, and BRadie is going tobe there next year, why go with Miller now??? You want him to displace Lee?
There’s no one better, that I can see, at SS ready for 2011 than Sensabaugh.
Take the impact DE first. If he’s not there, take the best O-lineman or trade down. No more glamour picks.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Ummm, yeah you made your point
Repetition still only gets ya one. ;)
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
I love those...
“oops! your comment cannot be posted to BTB right now” text boxes, because I do what it says and wait. Then I do what it says and try to post again.
It’s like a Marcus Allen reverse of field in the Super Bowl.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
See what happens...
when ya do what you’re told. Obeying others. Bah!
off-topic, humdinger BCS game, eh?
btw, fantastic comment-trading between you and G_SWAG.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Indeed
G-SWAG, I would be remiss if I didn’t thank you for such an engaging conversation.
I disagree with you in principle about what the team needs to do, But you forced me to think about things differently and I feel like I can now articulate your position and the merits of that position more clearly.
The good news for you is that the Cowboys NEVER do what I want them to do in the NFL Draft, so your deired outcomes are much more likely to become a reality than mine.
Thanks again!
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
I'm hoping what you two have done is...
force a lot of people to think about things differently, be open to considerations they’d perhaps not been, all that kind of thing. Like I said, outstanding debate, guys.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Superb.
While, if your intent was to convince re: Black, I’m not committed. To any prospective player, draft/FA/otherwise; to any non-HC coach/scheme/etc; draft/FA plan or the like; nothing but the team.
But as an analysis/argument, G_SWAG, absolutely a must-read, thought-provoking consideration-must-be-given comment. Truly post-deserving.
Definitely a conscious part of my personal considerations going forward.
Absolutely, extraordinarily outstanding.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
I tend to remember Barbie...
usually trailing and perpetually being a step late and a pound short. He spent a lot of time “cleaning up” on plays after someone else had already slowed the player down.
Rabid and luvin' it
...but he ran a whole lot better than Brooking can
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Ran better...
probably faster. But, did it make him anymore effective considering he usually started running too late or the wrong way initially?
Rabid and luvin' it
I think so
…to the naked eye, he made more plays in space than Brooking was able to THIS year…but last year, I think Brooking was a beast.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Must read GSWAG/Blings debate
Rec’ing the whole thing, if possible. Should be paid attention to by all and considered, regardless of our individual views. Outstanding, guys, both of you.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Cut Barber or Keep Him?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Sadly, yeah, unless we can sorta Walker somebody. Unlikely.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
I keep hearing about Roy and Barber taking pay cuts
But I’ve never heard of an NFL player taking a pay cut with his current team. Granted, I’ve never bothered looking for examples either, but is that something that’s been done before?
by One.Cool.Customer on Jan 8, 2011 12:56 PM CST up reply actions
I believe...
Aikman restructured his contract at least once so the team had more cap room to sign other players. I believe it created a pay cut/cap space in one season and increased it in another. Basically, just deferred it.
I remember several players that were cut and then resigned with the same team for a lower amount after testing free agency.
It all depends on whether the player thinks they’ll still be getting more pay after the cut than what they’d be able to get from another team in free agency.
Barber is due to earn $4.25 million in 2011. I really don’t see any team offering Barber close to that much money or making him the starter…not after this season. http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/player_main.aspx?id=3215&sport=NFL
So, what would his realistic price be in FA? $2M? $3M? Everyone around him in the rushing rankings is making $3M or less. The only one making slightly more than $3M is Chester Taylor ($3,005,330) who is actually one spot behind him.
Honestly, I think he’s worth $2-3M to keep around as a 3rd down/blocking back and insurance. If he doesn’t agree, cut him and best of luck to him finding that kind of money elsewhere.
RW…no way in heck is he worth $5.1M next season http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/player_main.aspx?id=35&sport=NFL
If he thinks he is or that another team would pay him close to that, then he is deluded. Not as a 2nd WR and definitely not as a 3rd WR. Heck, even Wes Welker only makes $2-3M per year. http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/player_main.aspx?id=2964&sport=nfl
Rabid and luvin' it
But you have to look at the cap hit, not just the salary
…when considering whether to cut them or not.
Although all those rules may change…
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
What is their cap hit?
Have you seen anything that says what it would be? I’m tired of researching for the day. Seeing all of those inflated numbers is sickening. I’d rather be a bum and watch the Colts-Jets game.LOL
Rabid and luvin' it
Not a clue
I rely on others for that…
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Precisely. No simple clear-cut answers to any of CBA/cap/cut/keep arguments.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
restructuring is advantageous to players...
it guarantees their salary. Their salary for that year essentially turns into a signing bonus – they get the money and the cap hit is spread over the remainder of the contract.
Its a quick one year fix but generally a very poor business practice in my opinion. If one player restructures, it is fine, but if you have multiple players restructure, you kill your cap space in following years. I think Romo and a few other players have done this recently.
Yes, this is something we won't see much of unless the rules on how the cap is impacted change...
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Cut.
Formerly Cowboyfan729
If I had a nickel for every time the Eagles won the Super Bowl, I would have zero nickels
Can you be clearer, please? ;
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Cut him,failing abilities.
more impotrantly he showed up Garrett with his dress code violation imo.
as a team captain that was unacceptable behaviour.
Davie Wilson
"how bout them cowboys"!!!
by scotscowboyfan on Jan 7, 2011 8:59 PM CST up reply actions
You could say that about 3/4 of the defense!!!
:-)
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Kosier...Keep or Cut?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Keep... try to get another year out of him,
and hope we can develop a young G to take over from him.
Davie Wilson
"how bout them cowboys"!!!
by scotscowboyfan on Jan 8, 2011 11:39 AM CST up reply actions
Keep
Remember Flozell? Dude may go on at RT to finally get a ring.
If Kosier agrees to another contract I’d take him back in a heartbeat. At the very least, he’ll be a very good backup, and may have a year left as a starter.
by One.Cool.Customer on Jan 8, 2011 12:55 PM CST up reply actions
I may be going out on a limb here
And i’ll admit, much to my dismay, I don’t always get to read up on the insanely amazing positional pieces you guys do, however…
The eye test tells me, Kosier is our best Lineman.
And just by looking, it’s not even that close
You aint been around in awhile, maybe you haven't heard........I don't shine shoes no more
You figure more than Free?
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
He's definitely the most cerebral
…but he is the weakest.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Yep, keep.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Keep...
with a 2 year deal worth $2-4M. He should be fine as a starter for one more year and a backup the following year.
Rabid and luvin' it
Bigg...Keep or Cut?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Cut
At this point, I wouldn’t even want him back as a backup. Not unless he wants to play for the veteran minimum anyways.
Rabid and luvin' it
He should be cut
but he gets one more go in training camp (if there is such a thing this year) to compete for the spot, but then gets cut.
by One.Cool.Customer on Jan 8, 2011 6:12 PM CST up reply actions
So keep him if we can't get someone better or cut him if he comes in heavier than 340 in camp?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
OCC...
do you foresee a day when a poster could put multiple polls in a single post?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
No
But what you could do is write out the options in a couple of consecutive comments, and then ask the readers to rec the comment they most agree with. This would of course create a wall of green, assuming a lot of people “voted”.
by One.Cool.Customer on Jan 8, 2011 9:08 PM CST up reply actions
cut .please..
Davie Wilson
"how bout them cowboys"!!!
by scotscowboyfan on Jan 8, 2011 7:55 PM CST up reply actions
the game has passed him by.
he’s too big and slow for the new generation of OLB .
Davie Wilson
"how bout them cowboys"!!!
by scotscowboyfan on Jan 8, 2011 7:57 PM CST up reply actions
Newman...Keep or Cut?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Keep...
at least until Jenkins shows he’s straightened out and someone else either steps up or is drafted that would be an improvement or at least as good at a better price.
I’m one of the people that don’t see him as FS material. Either he stays as a CB or not at all.
Rabid and luvin' it
keep at reduced money,
have to re-do his contract.
Davie Wilson
"how bout them cowboys"!!!
by scotscowboyfan on Jan 8, 2011 7:58 PM CST up reply actions
He's not gonna do that...
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Then i have a problem with him.
Davie Wilson
"how bout them cowboys"!!!
by scotscowboyfan on Jan 9, 2011 7:24 AM CST up reply actions
Spears...let go or attempt to re-sign?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Attempt to resign.
I wouldn’t blame him for seeking greener pastures though. He’s been pretty unappreciated here, both by the FO and by fans (including me at one time).
Is he the ultimate answer at DE? I don’t think so. But, I think he’s better than what we had for most of this season. I guess it all depends on what direction they are planning on going defensively and who they are planning on targeting in the Draft.
I wouldn’t shed too many tears either way I guess.
Rabid and luvin' it
I hope we re-sign Spears.
Davie Wilson
"how bout them cowboys"!!!
by scotscowboyfan on Jan 9, 2011 7:24 AM CST up reply actions
Why?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
purely for his run stopping ability,
no one filled in adequately for him when he went down for the season.
Davie Wilson
"how bout them cowboys"!!!
by scotscowboyfan on Jan 10, 2011 2:50 AM CST up reply actions
I hear we can rent a barrel filled with sand for less than the cost of re-signing Spears
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Yeah, there is that...
That’s part of the “better” option. Much as I hesitate to bring up “better”. ;
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
I haven't been a fan of Spears
…since he said that Wade’s scheme was going to free him up to “use his speed” (yeah, he said that) to make plays in the backfield.
JAG…Bust…Bye Bye.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
I'm still going over some things...
picked up from a few comments and possibly indicated/backed up by preliminary stats OCC dug out for me. It’s the value ($) vs worth (performance, not just his but the fit into the player-mix) that has me puzzling over a re-signing. Because I was, like you, JAG, thanks for the contribution, good luck but so long. Then again, some JAGs you keep. Value vs worth.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
our opinions differ then.
Davie Wilson
"how bout them cowboys"!!!
by scotscowboyfan on Jan 11, 2011 5:53 AM CST up reply actions
Re-sign unless I find a better option before then
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Sensabaugh...Keep or Cut?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
He may choose to opt out himself
And has made statements to that effect. My concern is replacing so many players/starters at once with all these crries for ‘Cut’! That said, there’s no doubt Ball will be gone – where do you find 2 replacement Safeties in one off-season, especially if we are acquiring your quasi-mythical Stud DE that is not only going to fix our pass rush, Run D, but make the secondary better as well?
As it stands, consensus indicates we’re replacing ‘the Right side of the O-Line.’ Replacing 4 starters in one off-season, with FA rules yet TBD is a tall task in and of itself, as well as shoring up some depth and adding talent for development.
All that said, I think Sensa has shown enough that he can be adequate. God, I hope AOA is a player.
We live life forwards and understand it backwards
I think AOA looked stiff and limited as an athlete
For a position that uses hip-turn as one of the measures of potential success, he didn’t look to have much. But then again, who knows, he may have tremendous instincts.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
The jury is still out.
I know on kick returns this year he looked like he was confused on exactly where to run (as was every other kick returner not named Bryan McCann or Dez Bryant), but when I was at training camp, I saw his first day of practice after the injury and he looked pretty darn shifty on some returns. I think he will be fine.
Formerly Cowboyfan729
If I had a nickel for every time the Eagles won the Super Bowl, I would have zero nickels
Would you like to see him start in place of Ball next year?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
I honestly don't know.
It depends how much he will have developed by the time we get to training camp. I believe he certainly is a good enough athlete, but the real test is whether he can mentally transition to the pro game. Regardless, I think it is definitely in the Cowboys’s best interest for him to develop.
But, with that said, I still want to draft a safety relatively high. We need the help at that position for sure, and even if AOA loses out to the rookie, he can still play a big role in this defense backing him up and maybe playing some spot secondary positions (he did play corner after all a lot in college). And who knows, maybe we can draft that same guy and have him and AOA become our safety tandem for the next ten years. In other words, I want and think AOA can succeed, but he isn’t enough at this point to dissuade me from picking a highly rated talent at that position in April.
Formerly Cowboyfan729
If I had a nickel for every time the Eagles won the Super Bowl, I would have zero nickels
How would you rate our needs in order of importance?
I’m not asking about draft needs, since some positions are best filled through Free Agency and others through the draft, just overall needs from a roster perspective…
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
I would rate them, in terms of safety, as someone experienced enough
to read the offense and set the coverage. AOA is still a rookie since he never started at FS. Anyone we draft is a rookie who probably will not have the skills & experience to read the offense and set the coverage.
This is one reason why I’ve been on the TNew conversion to FS team, even if only for a year while others continue to learn.
As Creasy said, and I’ve said, AOA played a lot of corner in college. With his coverage called from TNew, he could be successful or maybe McCann takes the next step and beats AOA out for LCB. Who knows?
But the key is SOMEONE has to set the coverage so we don’t see anymore blown covers where 2 DB’s chase the same WR and another runs free.
In this perspective, once again I move for TNew to try FS in TC. Maybe he doesn’t cut it, but my guess is he would. Probably not Pro-Bowl levels, but consistent, intelligent calls and the ability to be a cover FS, which is something we’ve lacked for a very long time. Hamlin could make the coverage calls – according to all we read and saw – but he couldn’t cover very well at all.
When in doubt, empty your magazine
Newman has never been known for being able to make plays on the ball in the air
He’s also about the same playing weight as Alan Ball. Why would you choose him for a FS?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
I believe he doesn't make many plays with the ball in the air
because he’s often playing man with his back to the QB. As a FS he’d necessarily be facing the QB and would be able to follow the eyes and the ball.
He did get his picks this year after we switched to more zone.
And it’s FS, not SS. FS is supposed to cover, not play closer to the line. I never had real concerns about Ball’s weight, just his basic intelligence. He never seemed to recognize what the play was and where he was needed. Which would explain why he’s not in the screen view of deep catch tackles. FS should be all over that.
And lastly, we need someone in the secondary who can recognize the play and call out the coverages. IMO, that takes both (football) intelligence and experience.
When in doubt, empty your magazine
I dunno
The CB to FS moves tend to backfire.
The ones that do make it are notable, but those guys are generally known for being big hitters and great tacklers (Rod Woodson and Ronnie Lott come to mind).
I wouldn’t want to bet the farm on Newman being able to buck the trend and be the guy that proves everyone wrong.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Yeah, whoever it turns out to be better be able to QB a secondary, so to speak
One of them, either strong or free.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
I believe Ball will be on the street before TC, and deservedly so
When in doubt, empty your magazine
Keep, td's reasoning
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Buehler...Keep or Kut?
K is for Kicker.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Keep
Krazy kwestion
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Kwazy, just kwazy
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Keep...
as a Kickoff Specialist/Special Teamer. Unless Brown or someone else shows they can kick FG’s and Touch-backs reliably.
Rabid and luvin' it
Keep. Period.
KOS/ST or not. Doubt he’ll get supplanted there, but even if he did. Take issue with the idea, but I’d ST/ILB this guy, retain as backup KOS, even FG. Yep, knock the development given our recent history, the works. See more value ($) and worth (abilities/heart/intangibles) than most others, I guess.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
If he can start knocking those 30-40 yarders in on a more regular basis
The kid could be the next Janikowski (sp?)
A little to the right, and he supplants Folk as one of the best FG’s in history, in that New Orleans game.
I wish the final kickoff in the AZ game went out of bounds, with the penalty before it, we could’ve seen if ol’ Dave could hit a 63-65 (i cant remember) yarder. Hell, i’d probably bet he makes it.
You aint been around in awhile, maybe you haven't heard........I don't shine shoes no more
He's taking...
fan-reaction criticism for a combination of his learning-on-the-job, team-decision in allocating the FG-position responsibility to him (plus the way it was done) and the way the season went as much or more than for his capabilities/potential/technique in the role. That all of these things played a part in specific instances which played into the overall outcome of any game is no different than with any other player, FG role or any other.
I’d appreciate knowing what JG’s take on it was, going into season, throughout and now, along with his reasoning. In more honestly than a public-statement way, but I’m not a guy sitting in the coaching position he’d have such a conversation with.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Very much agree
He was never a real FG in college. But, with all his lack of experience, he’s still made tremendous strides this year. If he continues to work with Boniol through the off season he could be one hell of a kicker, in all phases.
Interesting thought – Boniol is sort of listed as a coach, so if there is a lockout, he probably wouldn’t be able to work with him in the Cowboys organization. But, Boniol also has a private business running a kicking school. Buehler could just pay (maybe future $$$) and attend Boniol’s kicking school off season and throughout the lockout, if there is one.
Besides having a kicker in LB body, with a LB mentality and his phenomenal speed, he’s awesome on ST. How many big runs did he personally stop this season? I remember seeing 18 on the returner more than a few times.
When in doubt, empty your magazine
That's great, but I prefer a small guy who can make 22 of 25 FG's during the year
Leave tackling to the other 10 guys.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Well, 22 of 25 is great
But, given that 2010 was essentially a year for Buehler of being thrown in the deep end of the pool to sink or swim. And he did make 24 of 32 for 75%, which certainly demands improvement. But he made tremendous improvement during the season. You can say he lost some games by missing a kick, but I don’t want to lay the whole blame on him. Why were we in a position that we needed a kick to win? That falls on the defense, primarily, in my mind. We gave up way too many points this year.
I’m not saying keep the guy, just don’t cut him unless he loses out in TC. Definitely bring in competition, real competition. There’s plenty to be had in the UDFA pools so we don’t waste a pick on another kicker.
And I really do like a kicker who dish out a lick and stop a runback.
When in doubt, empty your magazine
Not just the D...
it falls on the team. Top to bottom. Coaches, O/D/ST, the works. All the way up to franchise-level.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Okay, we'll disagree on this...
I think Kris Brown is a good pickup. It looks like they’ll split duties if the rosters expand and that they’ll compete for the job if they don’t.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Sure, but when you don't have him...
and the guy covering the duties does what Buehler did for us this season, I take exception with reactionary calls to cut the guy or lay it all on him, not to mention the pure BS of some comments made, esp. during game-time, even when accounting for the passions during a game. It’s horsesh!t.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Not just the stops...
this kid’s a pure out-and-out, no-brainer keeper. But, WTF do I know.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
I think that is wishful thinking, Mark
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
I have read this same article 8 or 10 times written bythe same 2 or 3 guys...fun yay
At least I am not a Yankees fan...
Sorry about that...
did they provide the gratuitous cheerleader tryout pic too?
If so, I am going to have retool my entire writing staff.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Cheerleader pics are NEVER gratuitous
Lifelong Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
My Beer Blog: http://tiltingsuds.wordpress.com/
Dibs on the brunette
despite “soiled merchandise”.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
She showered before and after
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
It'll take more than a shower...
but I’m sure the tongue-bathing she’s in for’ll wash the blinging away. ;
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Once she's been had a blingjection, all bets are off
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
I've cured more horrific diseases, even mended a broken heart or two ;)
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
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