The Tony Romo Soundtrack
by 5Blings on Sep 13, 2011 11:01 AM CDT
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PrintYou try not to overreact. You try to think positive thoughts. You try to convince yourself that it's not as bad as it seems and things will surely improve. Then, almost like a soundtrack playing in the back of your mind, you hear a familiar Led Zeppelin song. But you can't quite make it out. Not quite loud enough. What is that song? I know I've heard it before.
I'll never forget the time I was standing at the fence line in Oxnard during a Cowboys training camp. When I yelled across to Peter King (much heavier back then) and asked who looked good, fully expecting him to say Bledsoe or one of the WR's, he took no time to think and said, "Romo!". I had no idea how poignant that moment would become.
If you've ever read any of my posts about Tony Romo, you know my tag line has always been, ‘He gives me hope'. To this day, I believe that when Tony is playing QB for Dallas, there is no team we cannot beat on any Sunday at any venue. There has always been a lot to like about our QB. After all, he has a lot going for him. He's marketable. He's got magazine cover good looks. He got the girl. Not just any girl, mind you, but a former beauty queen. He's got great ability. He can make all of the NFL throws and he has shown he loves to compete. Plain and simple, if you were looking for someone to play the role of QB for America's Team, this guy would appear to have come directly out of central casting.
"I had a dream"
The truth is, you have to love the Tony Romo story. It is a fairytale of the highest order. Receiving no invitation to the Scouting Combine, he found his way onto the roster because of Sean Payton's relationship with his alma mater. From there he worked and worked and worked until Bill Parcells, and fate, gave him a chance. He did not waste the opportunity. Since then, he's been one of the most prolific NFL quarterbacks and demonstrated some highlight reel displays of athleticism worthy of NFL Films' best ever. By exploding onto the scene, he garnered the support of the team and the fanbase. As a result, he was rewarded with a $67 million contract.
But somewhere along the path to his pre-ordained destiny, he got derailed. The promise of the Super Bowl wins that put in him in the same class as his franchise QB predecessors, Aikman and Staubach, was not fulfilled. In what seemed like an instant, Romo became better known for a slew of big game failures, an ill-advised bye week trip and a rock and roll lifestyle replete with high-profile blonde bombshells as his chosen companions. At one point it got so bad that even his work ethic was called into question in a public way. The unanimity of fan support that carried him to his pinnacle became a house divided.
"Crazy dream"
His detractors claimed he lacked the intangibles needed to lead this team to the Promised Land. An apparent inability to keep from making that "Romistake" in the most crucial of situations always seemed to devastate the Cowboys' chances of winning. They bemoaned the toothy smile that always seems to come out when he misses a connection with a receiver as a sign of weakness and lack of fire.
He hit rock bottom in 2010, leading the team to a horrific start before being injured and sitting out the second half of the season. Again, his valiant supporters used the idea of his time off to fuel the notion of a rebirth. Watching Jon Kitna and the game from the sideline, they said, could be just what Romo needed to change his ways and become what all Dallas fans wanted him to be.
But then, the worst case scenario became the unavoidable reality. In game 1 of the 2011 season, the new and improved Romo ended up looking a lot like the old and untrustworthy Romo. Big numbers, gaudy even, but as before, he would make critical, game-changing errors at the worst possible time. It's not like fans hadn't seen this movie several times. In fact, many had become numb to what they saw as Romo's penchant for giving away what seemed like sure wins. This time, though, it was different. This time, he broke the hearts of some of his most ardent supporters. This time, it was just...too...big. On the grandest of opening week stages, with a new coach and a new commitment to discipline and rigor, Romo may have begun to write the final chapter on what is his Cinderella story with his late game Charlie Brown impression. Immediately, people begin calling for his head on a platter. "He can't win" and "choke artist" and even "loser" are the terms being used to describe his fall from grace.
Now the media has jumped into the fray in a colossal way. ESPN long-timer Dan Patrick played clips of Romo's apologies from previous games challenging callers to guess which year the apology was from. This was the kind of thing I saw Donovan Mcnabb live through and even though I dislike the Eagles, it was painful for me to see as a human being. The idea that this could happen to the guy who was supposed to be our hero? It was unfathomable. Not the best situation even for the most confident of personalities, much less someone whose mental toughness and ability to endure harsh feedback has been in question.
"Anything I wanted to know, any place I needed to go"
Now, like many others, I can't help but find myself thinking that Romo doesn't bring me the hope he used to. He's written too many checks against that account filled with good will. Now, those checks are bouncing. Now, many people sit on the edge of their seat wondering when and how he's going to make that mistake and hurt the team. Now, the Trinity will want answers. Now, his once-bright future is in doubt.
Now, the questions get tougher; can Romo turn this into an experience that fuels him in a way that leads to excellence throughout the season? Can this be THE defining moment of his career? If not, then this could be the beginning of a swan song. If not, this could be another heartbreak season.
If not...then...The Song Remains the Same.
GO COWBOYS!
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TR is becoming the Barack Obama of the DAL Cowboys
dealt a terrible hand, showed great promise at the outset but has failed to deliver on the Audacity of Hope he once inspired. Perhaps he can, but he’s just made it so much harder than it needed to be
Dont fret about whats lost, embrace/appreciate what's given
What's your prediction about him?
Does he emerge from this a better player or does the song remain the same?
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Well that's the whole predicting the future part
Tricky wicket, that.
If I believed in the Fickle Finger of Fate, I’d have to say no. His window, Dallas window, was that magic ’07 season – where the bowling pins were all lined up: home filed advantage throughout the playoffs, a NYG team we beat twice, an unthreatening BF/GB matchup in the offing and a D that looked formidable – at least the pass rush. Even though we would NEVER have beaten NE in that SB, it would have been the platform for a completely different team psyche. However, the questions, the fractures and the seeds of dysfunction grew like weeds into that void.
And as you point out, I WANT the Cinderella story, it just seems so right. Alas, the rest of the League and Conference has overtaken our meager band of brothers. It’s not that he can’t or we can’t – it’s just the competition has gotten so much better.
Dont fret about whats lost, embrace/appreciate what's given
I think we all want the Cinderella story
It’s different for Elway and Aikman and others who come highly touted. It’s the unheralded guy, the underdog, who we want to take our team over the top.
We want to be the Spartans taking on the bad guys and somehow emerge the victor.
But I agree with you.
The NFL has moved on and Tony may have been left in the dust of guys like Rodgers and others.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
The Spartans got massacred. Honorably, but dead's dead.
I’m for saving the ship, not abandoning it. Titanic, Spartans, Blings. Enterprise, Allies,…
Besides, Cinderella’s a bedtime fairy-tale for children, Blings. Read me some Lord of the Rings.
Cry 'Havoc!'
Actually, you're thinking too narrowly, tan
They eventually staved off the Persians at Plataea, and Xerxes withdrew to Asia a big loser, but only after the small advance force of about 8,000 gave their lives to defend the pass at Thermopylae, being outnumbered somewhere near 25 to 1.
;-)
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Actually, you're thinking like a REMF or historian, no offense
Out with the first-responders, the grunts, it’s a bit different perspective.
Gotta go. Looks like some Persians are comin’. And I don’t mean pussies cats.
Focus first, then fire. Then philosophy.
Cry 'Havoc!'
His window
really closed in Seattle. That was the year it was there for the taking. We were on the way up. Parcells quit after that which is telling. In 07 I think the expectations where too high. Romo doesn’t drop the snap and the narrative changes drastically.
I find that hard to stomach
Say more about that and why you think that.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
If he holds onto the ball
He wins his first playoff game, on the road, in the year he came out of nowhere to become the qb of the Dallas cowboys. He brings an upstart team playing with house money to Chicago with a very shaky Qb. Seattle took them to overtime. It just felt like we could’ve had a run much like gb last year.
Pure speculation of course. But if he held onto the ball though its clear his rep would be totally different. He would at least have a higher playoff winning percentage.
2007 had higher expectations but yes a better team. I’d agree that was the best chance. My comment had a bit of dramatic effect to it.
Okay, I think you're right in that if you start off hot, it's easier to retain that inertia
…and then, who knows?
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
As typical, awesome post!
I have been a big Romo supporter since he stepped out onto the second half field against the giants in 2006. I remember how bristling with excitement each cowboy game in 2006 with Romo felt. He brought a lot of excitement and even though he made boneheaded mistakes now and again (remember he almost threw a costly interception in his first win against the Panthers), I thought he would work that out over time.
Now we know different. Those mental lapses, or his failure to reign in his instinct for risk, are part of his game. They will rear their head in the future. We just don’t know when and where. And that’s why our faith and trust in him has been somewhat eroded.
I still wish Tony the best; not just because he’s our QB, but because I really like the guy.
Here’s to future success to Romo and the Cowboys.
"Confidence doesn't come out of nowhere. It's a result of something... hours and days and weeks and years of constant work and dedication." --Roger Staubach
Thanks d33
Do you think he can take Dallas all the way?
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Yes.
Romo is a very good qb. With some solid coaching, a supportive running game, and a good defense, he can win a SB.
I think Garrett needs to be more aware of Romo’s “bad” tendencies in those type of situations and needs to coach him accordingly and needs to call the right plays.
On the fumble on the goal-line, I was personally thinking they needed a TD (with our corners banged up and all). Perhaps Tony and Garrett thought the same and that’s why the risk was taken. If not, Garrett needs to remind Tony not to take an unneccesary risk; that we at least need a FG.
In fact, one of my criticisms of the Garrett regime (starting as OC in 2007) was that Tony was treated as a star qb who did not need much guidance. That was not the case under Parcells. So I am going to lay some blame on the coaches. They need to be reminding tony of the situation and helping him guard against his instincts.
But to your question: Yes, in this parity driven league, he can take Dallas all the way.
"Confidence doesn't come out of nowhere. It's a result of something... hours and days and weeks and years of constant work and dedication." --Roger Staubach
So, is the answer to simply take the ball out of Tony's hands when things get dicey?
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
not necessarily
But what about a situational reminder, for example: “Hey Tony, we need the FG here so if you don’t see anything, get rid of the ball and lets kick.”
I don’t think this team is good enough to take the ball out of his hands when things are dicey—we need him to make plays, which means we always risk the Romistake.
"Confidence doesn't come out of nowhere. It's a result of something... hours and days and weeks and years of constant work and dedication." --Roger Staubach
Well, that may be the way to go
Hard to believe we want to call him “elite” but he needs that kind of reminder?
Does Drew Brees get that reminder?
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Jim Mora and Brian Billick agree with you, Dave.
And he put’s this on JG to coach him up…
http://blogs.nfl.com/2011/09/12/mora-romo-possesss-skills-to-be-premier-qb/
I tend to agree as well. Tony needs a little situational reminder to keep his head in the game and out of his you know what.
by H-Town Boys Fan on Sep 13, 2011 4:43 PM CDT up reply actions
Yep
But it’s that impish side of Romo that makes him Romo. Kill that, and I think you kill what makes Tony special.
Favre needed a whole lot of hand holding as well. He used to drim Holmgren nuts.
Some call it a lack of maturity, but it’s really the devil-may-care attitude that is a fundamental part of who he is.
by H-Town Boys Fan on Sep 13, 2011 4:49 PM CDT up reply actions
Do we really NEED special?
Or do we need a guy who can matriculate the ball downfield and leverage the power of his team (on offense AND defense) to win football games?
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
I think being elite
also comes with theawareness that you can ALWAYS use good advice
You are placing him in a catch 22 he didn’t create (doensn’t call himself elite)
No player is.
If treated so, there’s a coaching problem challenge for the FO to be looking into. And if, like some, the FO’s part of the problem…
Cry 'Havoc!'
Brett Favre was at his absolute best when Mike Holmgren was always in his head about ball security and not trying to get jacked up for the big play on every play.
"The tone is business," Garrett said. "Let's get to work. The Giants are going to be at the Meadowlands on Sunday at 4:15. They're an awfully good football team. We have to get ready for them."
great post
I have been a Romo fan since day one and still am. He can lead us to the promised land but needs to improve his game vision in the sense that he doesn’t need to do everything himself. He has a team to support him, as I hope he understands with the comments from his teammates the other night. Go Cowboys!!
I can't find that much to disagree with
This post was going to be longer, but I decided to separate it into positive/negative. So read below for my whole opinion, I’m not just a hater lol
I don’t think the 2010 start falls on his shoulders, but I will say that despite his gaudy stats, in a season where every game was decided in the fourth, he didn’t do that well in that quarter. Is it just bad luck? I don’t think so.
And I have a question for you/others: was anybody very worried about Romo before that first down throw INT? I don’t know about the rest of you, but he has a history of doing that. When he threw the ball and they had to switch cameras, I had a very bad feeling about what was going to be on the other side. I know its not always realistic for your OC to go conservative to prevent unexpected disasters, but I think Garrett needs to consider it.
And seriously Tony. How many balls are you going to throw to a guy who can barely move? How many times have we seen this story before? TO whines, he gets thrown at heavily (Washington 2008). Romo likes the Hurd on Bailey matchup, goes to Hurd twice (Denver 2009). Romo goes heavily to witten in pressure two minute drill situations, and teams have picked him a couple times at the end of close games (Tennessee, Pitt, I think Philly). His best wr is limping against the best cb in the game, yet he continues to go his way. In fact, this list comprises many close losses over his career. If theres something you can actually put your finger on thats wrong with his play late in games, this is it.
End of rant
Nice
was anybody very worried about Romo before that first down throw INT?
Simply put, YES!
Romo no longer has my trust. He’ll have to work hard to regain it through his play.
For me at least, football has to be a meritocracy.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Agreed. Absolutely.
When the game was tied at 24 and Romo had a chance to drive for the win, I had visions of Pittsburgh 2008 running through my head.
"Confidence doesn't come out of nowhere. It's a result of something... hours and days and weeks and years of constant work and dedication." --Roger Staubach
I think all fans, by definition, lean towards optimism when it comes to their own players
…but Dallas fans are, also by definition, spoiled.
We just maintain very high expectations. I’ve lamented the idea of how much extra pressure this puts on the players, coaches and brass, but that is what it means to be a Dallas Cowboy.
I hate the feeling that pops into my head when things are going well, and I bet I’m not the only one who feels it, that something is bound to go terribly wrong and that Tony is likely to be at the center of it all.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
See, I didn't used to feel that way
Before the 2008 mess, I used to be one of those who believed Romo could get us out of any mess, even if he was the one who caused it lol. And he often did.
Sunday, I did not foresee that fumble coming. He played smart all game. I was worried the Jets were about to demolish our D and put the pressure on Romo in a later series, but I absolutely did not think he would fumble there. With one hand on the ball.
I agree the fumble drove me ape
But what about running the ball in? We need to be able to drive the bowl in for the score
Proud Butch Packin a Johnson Dezbian
And I don't care about the context...
don’t SMILE when you and your receiver miscommunicate.
It sends the absolute wrong message.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Feeds the media frenzy around the idea that he just doesn't take the game seriously enough
Do you EVER see that out of Brady? From Peyton? From Brees?
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
I have to admit that I was terrified he would throw an interception there at the start of the ill-fated drive.
I have for a long time been a staunch Romo supporter, and one game isn’t going to change that, but the fact is that he has to do better. I totally agree that he has to get a better sense of the moment and better realize the things he should and shouldn’t do (looking Dez’s way with Revis on him and a safety over the top counts on something he shouldn’t do) in those moments. I don’t buy into the meme of “Romo always chokes” because I have seen him lead clutch drives several times, but that doesn’t mean he can’t do better. I still have hope though that he can in fact get better at capturing these moments for himself. Just look across the Metroplex at my favorite athlete in Dirk Nowitzki. The guy was labeled a complete choke artist (and worse than that, soft) similar to Romo due to his performance in some of the biggest games of his career. Of course, that meme ignored significant evidence to the contrary (2006 still stings for SA), but nonetheless it felt as if perhaps that label was the one he was destined to live with. And yet, we know how his story has more or less turned for the better. Last year he became maybe the best closer in the NBA (his game 6 against Miami notwithstanding) by leading Dallas to insane comebacks in rounds 2, 3, and 4. Maybe most creepy about the comparison (pre-2011 year for Dirk) though is their 4th quarter numbers. As Todd Archer wrote about Romo after the game, despite this idea of him as a choker, he is second in 4th quarter (assuming a point differential less than or equal to seven points) QB rating since 2006. Dirk, in 2010 (the year before his championship), was third in the league in clutch points (4th quarter or OT, less than 5 minutes left, point differential within 5) and shot an insane .667 percent from the 3-point line in such situations. I have read all the literature about “clutch” performance not really existing in a statistical sense, but still, perhaps there is hope.
If I had a nickel for every Super Bowl the Eagles have won, I would have zero nickels.
I think the problem most fans face
…is that it is long past time to see SOME kind of improvement in this particular area. Patience is not a virtue given to most Cowboys fans.
I think the Dirk reference is an interesting one, but not one I would choose.
No one faulted, at least to my knowledge, Dirk for making mental errors like passing the ball outof bounds or making the dumbass foul at the wrong time.
I think it is entirely different with Romo. The key losses, against rivals and quality teams, can generally be traced back to him and his lack of mental toughness in critical, game-changing situations.
Romo doesn’t control a strange blocking scheme on a punt, but the fumble was just another instance where I cannot support his choices in those situations.
He’s 31. This team doesn’t get DeMarcus Ware and Jay Ratliff and Jason Witten playing at peak performance levels for much longer.
How much longer does Tony get to before he suffers the same fate that ultimately gave him his shot, namely Bledsoe’s removal from the captain’s chair?
It also raises a question about Garrett. How would Jimmy or Landry react to this kind of play from their QB? How long a leash would those men give Tony???
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
I want to see how Tony responds this season before judging him
I’ve mentioned this before but I’ve only been a Cowboys/NFL fan for 2 seasons. 2009 and 2010, I don’t have as much evidence to support Romo being a chocker as everybody else and need to see it for myself.
Andy's Kolb was really bad so Andy hatched a plan, when his Kolb said play me now, Andy shouted no and ran. Andy tricked his mean old Kolb and traded him to the Cardinals, The Cardinals didn't know Kolb sucked, because Andy never told them
only since 2009? you missed some of romo's worst moments then
sunday defintely wasnt a top 5 blunder game for him but when you add up the cumulative history of his now infamous reel of blunders it pushes it to the front because its like he never changed from 2006.
most fans probably reacted in the fashion: “Aww WTF Romo? Again with this nonsense?” and have become insanely impatient
me: i saw aikmans/irvins/smith/deions final years together wasted. i sat in the torture chamber of hutchinson, stoerner, leaf, and henson. when parcells dumped bryant and carter i rolled with it because he was building the right vibe again in big d. when testeverde season: bleh. fluke season. bledsoe: he put up guady numbers but unlike romo he could not make up for his mistakes. he got sacked often and i remember the season he got benched he had committed such a string of terrible turnovers. like the jacksonville game in week 1 that season he tossed two terrible picks: one before halftime eliminating a scoring opportunity and at the end of the game tossing a terrible pick six to rashean mathis. difference like i said bledsoe only put up numbers if the line protected near elite level every play and if not(which was often) he was trash and limited the offense and the team in general
tony gave this team new life once again. the first playoff loss i acquitted because of all the variables that showed that was not a “choke” play. the next year: success like a mug but the giants decked him all game, and the WR’s choked more than him. the next year was truly the first year he “choked”. i expected another return to the playoffs at least. 2009 was redemption and then 2010 it came crashing down likely because of the puppet coach on the sidelines
most of the key pieces since 2006 are still here(austin, romo, witten, ware, james, newman, kosier) with better players now than the supporting cast(offs) before this season. We have at least 3 or 4 guys that can be considered perennial all-pro players. all i want is playoff appearances because the team has enough talent to be capable of that. once they get there unless they are one play from the super bowl then i expect any other result as a positive unless it is downright embarrassing which then i hope the team uses that as fuel for next year(e.g 2006, 2009, and hopefully 2011)
The realist keepin it real amongst the surrealists
R.I.P. Big Homey Nate Dogg: "Cuz Iiiiiiiiii have ne-evv-ver met a giiiiiiiiiirrrrrrllllllllllllllllllll tha-at I loved in the whole wide wooorrrlllllddddddd"
by starbury_to_s-jaxci2000 on Sep 13, 2011 10:44 PM CDT up reply actions
I agree that I wish Tony would once and for all rid his game of INTs in the 4th quarter.
However, it’s undeniable that you have to let the season play out before deciding exactly how much or how little he has improved. Just look at 2009. He got hammered big time in the first four games of those years due to performances against the Giants and the Broncos. How does that season turn out? Tony throws only a few more INTs the entire way, wins the Saints game that no one thought he could, and vanquishes all the Eagles demons. Even after the Minnesota game, most fans saw great improvement in his game. As much as Sunday night was tortuous, the season has to play out before making too many snap judgments.
As far as Dirk, it is an interesting distinction you make, but I think it falls short of being convincing as to why the two aren’t that similar. Romo throwing that pass to Revis is very similar to Dirk missing key FTs in the 2006 Finals. Romo being called out for being too reckless is similar to how Dirk was called out for not going to the hole enough and relying on his jumper. At the end of the day, both guys have left the media wondering whether their respective teams could win the big one with them as the centerpieces. These parallels to me make them very similar. They are especially similar to me since I always felt that the Mavs could win with Dirk as the guy and I feel the Cowboys can win with Tony as the guy.
Now as far far as any Bledsoe comparison goes, you have to stop for two reasons. One, Tony’s current level of play is much, much better than Bledsoe’s was in 2006. And secondly, we have no one behind Tony right now that is remotely similar to how Tony was behind Bledsoe in 2006. Kitna has maybe a few years left, and McGee has not progressed like Tony did in my opinion. I think Tony has at least two years until any real QB controversy around him starts up, and even then it is contingent on either McGee stepping his game up or us spending a draft pick on a QB early in a future draft.
Lastly, I think Landry and Johnson would have handled a similar situation just like Garrett did. Johnson was known for being a hardass, but that was mainly to the bottom of the roster guys and/or rookies. Tony, regardless of how you feel about him, is embedded in this franchise for now, and Johnson probably would have tried to build him up just like he did with Lett after his Miami debacle.
If I had a nickel for every Super Bowl the Eagles have won, I would have zero nickels.
Missed FT's vs. Throwing the Ball Away
I see a huge chasm between the two.
One is simply execution. The other is a decision matrix that is absoultely a requirement for any QB who understands the cerebral part of the game. You often hear about QB’s being “coaches on the field”. Romo, to this point, has NEVER displayed such an understanding of the need to be situationally aware. In fact, he has more instances of displaying something antithetical to situational awareness.
No other elite QB has made THIS MANY errors this far into their career and still been lauded like he is on BTB. If nothing else, the fans are stalwart. :-)
On Bledsoe, was there ever a stretch where he led Dallas to one win in eight games? If there was, I can’t recall it. I remember him pulling out that game in San Diego on a last minute TD to Keyshawn. SD was a good team then too.
BTW, I really like McGee. I think McGee would have replaced Bledsoe too.
I think you’re wrong. Landry would run the ball and take the game away from Romo. Jimmy would berate him on the plane ride home in front of the team and see if he could stand up to it. If he could, then he could keep his job.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
by 5Blings on Sep 13, 2011 5:01 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Well I am not going to ever give you too much ammunition against Dirk (who is hands down my favorite athlete right now)
but he threw the ball away in Game 3 of this year’s finals with less than a minute left and was often criticized that he didn’t want the ball enough in crunch time situations earlier in his career. He too has been criticized for his decisions and was even called out by D-Wade after 2006 for not being enough of a leader. You are never going to make perfect basketball analogies for football, but the parallels are there and I think you are quibbling over small things to try to derail the similarities.
Also, I think you are overstepping on your criticism of Romo. I think he definitely has to get better, but to say that he has never displayed an understanding of being situationally aware is kind of a blanket statement don’t you think? In fact, just look at this past game where he more or less conceded a sack (a Jets fan I am close friends with actually texted me to ask if Romo just fell down) when he was near the goal-line. He may need to improve on his situational awareness, but you can’t say he has never displayed any.
Also, Romo has made his share of errors, but you have got to stop pretending like that is the only thing his career has been made up of. It’s not as if there isn’t a reason the fans here defend Romo. You yourself have said you can see the potential for greatness is there and that you feel we can win any game with him back there. Doesn’t that within itself show you why he is defended strongly?
And you really like McGee? The guy struggles going read to read and has happier feet than Romo ever has. I don’t think McGee has shown anything quite like Romo showed in 2006 before he replaced Bledsoe.
Furthermore, I would be interested to hear one instance of Jimmy Johnson berating a player who had established himself as key to one of Johnson’s team. For a guy who gets credit for being a master of using psychology (you have called him that yourself), it certainly seems weird that you seemingly think Johnson’s only response would have been berating him.
If I had a nickel for every Super Bowl the Eagles have won, I would have zero nickels.
You make one point that gives me pause
…so I will rephrase;
Romo has not demonstrated the situational awareness of an elite QB, especially at times when the game’s outcome hang in the balance.
Fair?
I understand why people defend him, but that doesn’t mean it is logical or even that he is deserving of that faith.
I think Jimmy’s tirades are well-documented. I will say this though, he never had a QB who made the mental mistakes Romo has made.
Roy Tarpley had the potential for greatness. I seldom defended him. Ooh, now see, I am very impressed with myself now.
:-)
Romo got to carry a clipboard for 3 years and learn under Payton and Tuna and others. McGee didn’t even get to play 4 years of collegiate ball. I think he has ‘potential’.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
I think Romo has demonstrated that he can be self-aware in "clutch" situations.
I just think that that hasn’t been the case enough up to this point. So I don’t think it is a black or white issue; instead I just want Romo to make his current shade of gray closer to black.
Also, a few more thoughts:
1) I don’t think defending Romo as the Cowboys QB can really be described as illogical.
2) Johnson may have gone off on Romo, but considering the lack of a guy he could replace him with, I doubt it.
3) I agree McGee has “potential,” but I think Romo was much more impressive and showed much more potential prior to replacing Bledsoe.
If I had a nickel for every Super Bowl the Eagles have won, I would have zero nickels.
On #2
…then you don’t know Jimmy.
Romo would have either been benched or hamstrung by the play-calling.
Truthfully, Romo wouldn’t survive Jimmy.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Jimmy would berate the team in general. He wouldn't just tear into Romo.
I can’t think of one single instance I have ever read of Jimmy singularly berating or making an example one of his most important players. I have asked you for an example, and you have failed to provide one. Cutting Curvin Richards is not the same thing as turning his wrath to one single star player.
If I had a nickel for every Super Bowl the Eagles have won, I would have zero nickels.
actually
Jimmy did berate Aikman at least once that I know of….
the thing was is that Jimmy pulled Aikman aside before hand and let him know that he was going to do it…..
If I remember correctly…which is an iffy thing at best….CRS and all that
Here’s a theoretical play from 2010: Snap. Tony takes 7 step drop. Tony looks left at Miles, who is doubled, and looks right to where Roy Williams should be…but instead sees Colombo on his back and a Defensive End foaming at the mouth jumping over Marc’s carcass. Tony proceeds to run like hell and look for Witten
-by CotySaxman on Jul 11, 2011 7:50 AM PDT
Am I the most optimistic Cowboys fan in the World? Yes, due to an "unfortunate accident" to the previous holder of the title.
by I am Ironman!!! on Sep 14, 2011 2:49 AM CDT up reply actions
But you ARE Ironman
…so you have that going for you.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
I wonder if Romo would ever had BECOME the guy with Jimmy
Jimmy’s standards were high, not just for play on the field but in terms of approach. Turning the ball over was just something he had zero tolerance for.
I think this will, sadly, rehash all of the public’s prior criticisms of Romo.
Can he handle it?
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
We'll never know, but I think they would have made it work.
Jimmy, as intolerant as he could be, was willing to do what it took to properly utilize talent. And Romo, for all his criticisms, definitely has talent that doesn’t grow on trees.
If I had a nickel for every Super Bowl the Eagles have won, I would have zero nickels.
Maybe, but I think Jimmy would have neutered him the second time he blew a game with reckless ball security
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
I thought about the same thing.
Landry I think would have road with him
Jimmy would have replaced him I believe after the Titans game.
Proud Butch Packin a Johnson Dezbian
5 years....I think were riding..
and getting sores from it. Change is coming because the organization wont be able to stand much more than this.
Dang it you had to bring up 2006 didn't you Creasy?
Andy's Kolb was really bad so Andy hatched a plan, when his Kolb said play me now, Andy shouted no and ran. Andy tricked his mean old Kolb and traded him to the Cardinals, The Cardinals didn't know Kolb sucked, because Andy never told them
Prior to the Mavericks title last year, you have to realize that beating SA that year
was probably the best sports moment of my life. And yes, that is a little depressing to consider.
If I had a nickel for every Super Bowl the Eagles have won, I would have zero nickels.
Im happy for you guys
Dirk deserved it and I’m just glad the Lakers, Grizzlies, and the Heat didn’t get it.
Qui homo qui non mihi respondet est? Vir graecae linguae modo est? Seu ut me stultum faciam insidiaris quod istud me facturus esse sciat?
by NYHorn on Sep 13, 2011 4:59 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
great post
I like the optimism.
5blings, Romo is often at fault, but even when hes not it gets traced back to him. I think the Dirk comparison is apt, Dirk just isn’t at the center of the sports world.
Well, there is truth in that last statement
…but it comes with the territory, no?
If he can’t handle the heat, Dallas is certainly the wrong kitchen to be in.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Worried more about him when...
… he dove head-first, not slid.
Imagine the tone hereabouts had the collarbone been taosted, even banged up a bit? Wailing? Whining? Gnashing of teeth? Despair? Questioning?
Brother, you got no idea…
Cry 'Havoc!'
Yes I was nervous
Now reverse the scenario. If it’s brady or Rogers or rivers and Dallas is on d how do you feel?
5 pounds lighter
…but I need to change my shorts.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
you expect too much
It’s like some expect perfection from Romo. He’s a great athlete and will make mistakes same as all other qbs out there. He probably tries to take on too much sometimes but that’s because he’s a competitor. A coach with his salt would find a way to work around his weaknesses and put him in a position to succeed via his strengths. He’s a human being not an infallible machine.
by playactionman on Sep 13, 2011 12:36 PM CDT via mobile reply actions
sometimes that is true
But this is not one of them. Expecting your qb not to turn the ball over in mind bogglingly stupid fashion twice isn’t “expecting too much”
While I agree Garrett deserves some blame, for sure, you shouldn’t have to protect your qb the way we would need to protect Tony. Maybe I do think too much of him, that he is just short of elite instead of just good. But teams these days don’t go far when they can’t put the ball in their qbs hands in a key situation.
i would say that Favre is elite but has weaknesses also
Elite to me does not mean that absolutely zero mistakes will be made.
The fumble was not a mind numbing stupid mistake, the defender made a play at the right time.
The int was a mistake, although the defense also made a great read on it and guessed exactly what the cowboys were going to do. What was dumb to me was why Dez was the main Target when he was clearly hurt. Although clearly Romo should not have thrown it or maybe he threw it too low.
by playactionman on Sep 13, 2011 12:53 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Here's the difference
Favre had an indefatigable ego. He was supremely confident in every imaginable way.
I don’t sense that Romo has the ability to shrug things off like Favre. The other thing is that Favre didn’t have to withstand the same kind of public scrutiny as Romo does because GB is a small market, their team was coming off of the Don Majkowski years and Dallas is America’s Team (with America’s Media constantly scrutinizing every move).
The contexts and personalities are completely different.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Agreed
And I love Peyton Manning so when I say this, I say this with as much love as possible. But even Peyton arguably one of the greatest of all time makes stupid bone headed mistakes. If you don’t believe me go watch the Colts games last year. He had a lot of stupid interceptions where it was just like what are you doing Peyton? But he’s still considered a great so…
I think the way to alleviate the problem of qbs making stupid mistakes in the 4th quarter is to make it where they don’t feel like they carry a team. That is why it’s imperative that the O-line becomes better not only in pass protection but also in run so that the running game can function(well you need running backs too but…) a good defense is also nice to have, so you know when you give the ball back to the defense they can execute and hold on to win. Also, I think that a two minute drill needs to be more methodical. Not underneath throws per say but doing it 10 yards at a time, consistent and accurate to move the chains eating the time down at the same time. I hoped that made sense!
by willyoubemycharizard on Sep 13, 2011 6:56 PM CDT up reply actions
I think you credit him with INT's that should be atributed to the slew of Blair White's...
and other 1st year guys they plug in at receiver because of Peyton’s ability to assimilate new players into the offense seamlessly.
The Oline and Defense were much better than I expected. How about you?
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Yes that fumble was a mind numbing, stupid mistake.
I taped the game, he clearly held that ball out like a loaf of bread he was trying to give away. It was very stupid ball handling. End of story. And I still want Romo to be our QB. But if it quacks like a duck, has feathers like a duck……. then it was stupid.
Maybe he's just a stupid duck that won't ever lead us to the Super Bowl (for ducks)
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Do I?
If I thought of him as an average QB with average talent, you might be right.
The fact is, I see the POTENTIAL for greatness in Romo. But that’s where it ends. HE owns everything that happens from that point forward.
His resume is one of, and I hate to say this, collossal failure rather than epic victory.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
by 5Blings on Sep 13, 2011 12:54 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Not so much
What he has done, in those moments, looks like failure.
I’m not suggesting he cannot reinvent himself, but wan’t the second half of 2010 the perfect time to do just that?
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Ok, now that Romo's a "shoulda been"
Who’s the “ain’t done it yet” that you figure should be slipped in his place?
Cry 'Havoc!'
Ok, Wholly Trinity
How’s that deal look? Seriously, lay it out. Put aside the low probability for a minute.
Cry 'Havoc!'
I agree
Setting aside the fact that we don’t have and will never get Rivers, if we didn’t have Romo I would want Rivers. Watching him play here in San Diego is fun. He is good.
Dang good and I hadn't realized just how good until I saw him play
in 2009 and in the 2011 preseason. Just wow. Very few quarterbacks “scare” me like Rivers.
Qui homo qui non mihi respondet est? Vir graecae linguae modo est? Seu ut me stultum faciam insidiaris quod istud me facturus esse sciat?
Rivers jaws a little much for my taste
But I admit that I like his passion. If San Diego finds a running game and ST play a notch above abysmal, they will make a run this year. Rivers, as you say, is dang good. Couldn’t agree more.
The other side
I know I’m just trying to stay positive, but I do think it needs to be pointed out that his performance the first 50 was masterful. I really think he just needs a momentous victory to get his head on straight a little. Lets not make it out to be like Tony has always been brutal in late game situations. He has 3 or 4 impressive close victories against the Giants. Game winnings throws/drives against the Bills, Lions, Redskins, Chiefs (though that wasn’t him for the most part), and a few other teams I believe. He has a ton of drives that turned a 1 score game into a 2 score game and effectively ended it. Something he did once Sunday before failing spectacularly.
Recently, hes coming up short all the time, even against these caliber teams. Its surely not always him, but its hard for me not to think that with this talent, a better qb (read elite) would’ve have pulled it out. This sounds bad, but its actually why I maintain hope – We’ve seen him play well in these situations before. He used to be a demon in the end of half/end of game situation. I think something just needs to give him a kick start to get his confidence back.
But again, I think it is moderately encouraging that he played so well against a D thats made so many qbs look awful. Tony of 3 years ago is not in this position. Hes clearly a better qb overall imo. But I don’t think Tony of 3 years ago blows this game.
But isn't that what we already know about Tony?
He will tease you with his athleticism and his ability to generate big numbers and then, at the absolute worst moment (which tends to be after the first 50), make the Romistake.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
But to foyesboys point
I do think Tony has some clutch in him and he has proven it with something like 10 game-winning or tying drives. The problem is he’s both—sometimes he’s clutch and sometimes he makes the game-losing Romistake—and we have no idea who is going to show up at any given moment because sometimes he’s both in the same game (See Bills Monday night game 2007).
"Confidence doesn't come out of nowhere. It's a result of something... hours and days and weeks and years of constant work and dedication." --Roger Staubach
But in big games against tough teams...
I haven’t seen that kind of upside.
The Buffalo win was an interesting choice for a baseline because, as I recall, Romo was atrocious for 3 quarters and the Bills and our special teams/defense kept us within striking distance.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Well...
There have been some big games against tough teams like Indy and Philly. Those can’t be discounted. But your point is well taken.
Source: http://www.pro-football-reference.com/play-index/comeback.cgi?player=RomoTo00
"Confidence doesn't come out of nowhere. It's a result of something... hours and days and weeks and years of constant work and dedication." --Roger Staubach
So, does this team have to overcome Tony to win certain games against quality opponents?
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Oh man, between that "overcome Tony" and the "Romistake"
… you’re going to have the Romodar sounding a 5-star alarm and flashing all kinda lights. Where’s Tony’s hero?
Cry 'Havoc!'
Hey, I don't write for people to agree with me
I write because it’s what I see and you know that as well as anyone.
I’ll put something up tomorrow that is more even-handed and discusses the larger team context, but until then Romo is today’s goat.
You know it. I know it. He knows it. Even Terry knows it.
We all have to deal with it.
BTW, I hate it when the GM says things like, “he is our guy”. Reminds me of, “Wade is our coach”.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Agree with you? Nope, never figured it. Not from the first read.
Goat? Not mine. No more than Albright/Phillips leaving the gap, Dez/Romo not connecting play-wsie, JW not using his muscle, JG not…
You get the point. Win as a team, lose as a team. Period.
Cry 'Havoc!'
Offcourse he is our guy
We dont have anyone else at the moment. Jerry is just trying to put out the fire, but we all know he talks out the side of his mouth. I will tell you this much, he isnt thinking of giving him a contract extension anytime soon.
What do you think will happen?
Also, what do you think Jason is thinking???
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
JG is thinking ..
I need to pay attention who is coming out in next years draft because I maybe drafting one. Im not giving up on Mcgee and I dont think JG is either.
We have a young OL and WRs and would hate to see 2 or 3 precious years wasted away with this core to only start over at that point.
not when Philly's D was playing well
we got smoked the years when Philly’s D was playing their best
There are two differences
1) This may have been his best career performance against a good D to date. Maybe the Giants game in 2008/2009 game 2. In fact, the only defense hes played well against that was playing great football at that time has been the New York Giants. Everyone else (Eagles early on, Pitt, Baltimore are the only elite Ds I can think of), he hasn’t played this well for this long.
2)You continue to ignore the fact that hes made clutch plays before, instead using phrases like “He puts up big numbers”. Thats crap. Romo has a list of last second game winning drives, game tying drives, and plenty of late game scores that have sealed the win. The problem is, especially recently, the late game positives just aren’t there. Again, FITAT would say this is dumb luck but I don’t buy it.
But #2 pales in comparison to #3
And the fact of the matter is that he’s never displayed those great comeback abilities against quality defenses (which you so aptly state).
Big comebacks against teams we’re supposed to beat CANNOT be enough for cowboys fans. At some point, you have to show you are improving in the areas where you have been characteristically weak.
He’s not Matt Ryan. He’s a 9-year veteran who spent his first 3 years supposedly watching and learning. He’s got familiarity with the offense. His O-line suprised the heck out of me and the rest of the team did too.
When all those things line up and we still lose because of his trademark miscues? How long can anyone be expected to buy into the notion that it’s somehow going to get better?
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Well it did get better
he was GREAT Sunday for 50 minutes. He showed more in those 50 minutes than I can remember – he was calm under pressure, no big negative plays, very accurate, and he did so against a team thats made even the best qbs look awful the last 2 years.
I think his recent late game woes are a separate issue.
Lets be real here – we didn’t need Romo to be captain comeback during the last 10 minutes. He played so well the first 50 that we just needed a smart bus driver at the end, specifically on the drive near the goal line. Every point mattered considering our secondary man for man may’ve been the least talented unit to see the field on Sunday.
Romo’s got to put it together. Even if you do believe hes never going to be a “clutch qb”, he doesn’t necessarily need to be mr. clutch for him to be great. If he can play that well and not undo all the good he did over 60 minutes in 2 plays, and if our defense can get healthy, this is a 10-12 win team with a real shot in the playoffs.
Personally, I’ve seen him play well late in games before. I also have never seen him play well for a long time then totally unravel that badly. Which is why even though I am particularly pissed this week, I still have some sort of hope.
Let's give credit where credit is due
The defense stepped up huge.
Garrett’s playcalling was simply outstanding as he seemed to know exactly how to attack the matchup weaknesses in each situation and alignment.
The O-line was light years better than I could have imagined.
But Romo made the key mistakes at the key moments and THAT is why we’re 0-1.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Maybe he and Garrett need a 'safety word'
For those particular game situations. ‘Pineapple! Pineapple!’
Meaning, ‘put away the Superman cape and get you one of those Ralph Cramden unis.’
Dont fret about whats lost, embrace/appreciate what's given
or Garrett can stop gambling with his play calling
Garrett and Tony are alike in that they both like to gamble. Big risk equals big payoff or epic loss. Maybe he.can run low.risk run plays from the three yard line but he can’t help himself but line them up in shot gun, he gets greedy.
If you hate Tony the gunslinger then you should know that Jason G is a gambler.
by playactionman on Sep 13, 2011 3:34 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
I think it was a low risk play
One quick read and throw it away if the play was not on. The gamble was in the scramble, which was not part of the script.
Romo is thousand times smarter than you so does that make you dumb?? Just curious
by I_miss_Switzer on Sep 13, 2011 5:44 PM CDT up reply actions
What's funny is that isn't the play that infuriates me
It’s the interception on the next drive. I’m ok with Tony trying to scramble it in for a TD; I do think he should carry it a little more safely next time though.
Qui homo qui non mihi respondet est? Vir graecae linguae modo est? Seu ut me stultum faciam insidiaris quod istud me facturus esse sciat?
You want to know what it means?
Qui homo qui non mihi respondet est? Vir graecae linguae modo est? Seu ut me stultum faciam insidiaris quod istud me facturus esse sciat?
Just in case that is the case, what it means is:
Who is this man who does not respond to me? Is he a man of the Greek tongue alone? Or does he wait so that I might make myself a fool, because he knows that I will do this?
Qui homo qui non mihi respondet est? Vir graecae linguae modo est? Seu ut me stultum faciam insidiaris quod istud me facturus esse sciat?
Sure glad I don't have your ire...
Glad I did.
Poor bugger that raised your hackles.
btw, thanks for the translation. I was kinda close but not quite right on target.
Cry 'Havoc!'
Answer me this bling
What games has Romo “given” away with last minute INTs?? Sunday night and possibly Pittsburgh in 2008 are the only ones I ever saw where that happened and I’ve watched every play Romo has ever made in his career.
It’s statements like these where you lose all credibility with me
In fact, many had become numb to what they saw as Romo’s penchant for giving away what seemed like sure wins.
In Romo we Trust
Hi Terry!
I’m not sure you can have this argument with me because your self-admitted bias makes you unreasonable.
You say you’ve seen every play and you too have lamented his decision making, so I am not sure you want to go too deep here without fear of being blockquoted as such. Again, I’m saying Romo has suspect judgement in big games against quality opponents.
But, since you asked, let’s review:
In 2006;
The Jeff Garcia-led Eagles beat Romo as he threw two critical late-game interceptions.
Against the Lions, he fumbled like 62 times and lost a couple, and threw an INT to boot.
Must I talk about the Seattle game?
In 2007;
He lost to the Eagles in a down year for them while throwing 3 INT’s and fumbling twice.
He threw the Int to end that season against the Giants.
In 2008:
Pittsburgh…enough said.
The Ravens extracted 2 Picks and a fumble in another gut-wrenching loss.
In 2009;
3 INT’s against the Giants cost us the game (Eli thoroughly outplayed him)
The loss to the Packers brought the INT and another fumble
In 2010;
I won’t go there…
In 2011;
Well, here we are…
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
LOL Romo blamed for the...
Giants game? He needed to throw that ball it was 4th and 11.
The Ravens game? How about McClain and McGahee back to back touchdown rushes?
Why don’t you point out every game he through an INT and the Cowboys loss and just blame him. True Romo hater.
Residing on the BEast coast.
I think he didn't played well overall in that playoff game, did you?
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Hmmm... - 4 hrs 32 min
Looks like it’s still on the fritz or the tuning got done backwards. Now that the hero’s here I can go back to defending team and leave the individual in more capable hands. Well, more loving, at least…
Cry 'Havoc!'
If anyone says the Giants game...
We know Romo had to throw that ball right?
Residing on the BEast coast.
Close, but not quite
Mind you, if not, then I might feel and be. Or not.
I’ll wait to see before wailing.
There’s more, but that’s another album.
Besides, the medium’s mistaken. Maybe watch Tony’s favorite flick. You’ll get it.
Cry 'Havoc!'
On a completely separate and random note
The Album: The Song Remains the Same is the greatest Zeppelin recording ever produced, and that version of Moby Dick is the best performed Led Zeppelin song out there. Now that I’ve pretty much made myself an object of scorn and ridicule…
Andy's Kolb was really bad so Andy hatched a plan, when his Kolb said play me now, Andy shouted no and ran. Andy tricked his mean old Kolb and traded him to the Cardinals, The Cardinals didn't know Kolb sucked, because Andy never told them
Scorn? Zep love? Say nay!
Actually, my deafening experience has whichever tune’s being listened to as the greatest. Then the next, then…
You have any idea how tough it was paring down the list to slip into the response up there? Sheesh. From “Since I’ve been loving you” through Achilles Last Stand and more, I’m still hearing tunes in my head…
Done gone plumb lunatic loco (notice, it was a full monn last night).
Cry 'Havoc!'
tan, may I ask a favor?
When you put in links, can you check the box to open in a new window so the browser doesn’t redirect to youtube and lose the thread?
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
You can always ask.
And this one, as I’d neglected to even think about it, I’ll most happily comply with. I really must learn this thinking thing. My apologies, to you and anyone else it messed up.
Cry 'Havoc!'
Elite QB's
So, you all get your choice;
The game is tied with 1:47 left on the clock with 2 time out’s and you have the ball at your own 20 yard line.
Is Romo one of the 5 current NFL QB’s you want under center?
Mine – Peyton (when healthy), Brady, Rivers, Brees, Roethlisberger.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
We can't even say Romo is top 10 in that area right now
The guy is coming off a major injury and just remade himself into a national punchline. We were 0-6 or so in close games under him last year.
I’d say Rodgers despite the lack of comebacks, Ben, Brady, Brees and Peyton. I continue to be impressed with Aaron Rodgers. I’m basing this off of nothing but the eye test, but I think that guy is about to enter a Brady/Manning run of greatness.
Your eye test would seem to be right
The next great West Coast QB… I Have a feeling its gonna be Luck Rodgers and Bradford for the next few years
Qui homo qui non mihi respondet est? Vir graecae linguae modo est? Seu ut me stultum faciam insidiaris quod istud me facturus esse sciat?
by NYHorn on Sep 13, 2011 4:42 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
He really can throw laser beams
I’m amazed at his accuracy on the move too.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Peyton Brady Rodgers Brees Ryan
Qui homo qui non mihi respondet est? Vir graecae linguae modo est? Seu ut me stultum faciam insidiaris quod istud me facturus esse sciat?
by NYHorn on Sep 13, 2011 4:49 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
I like Rivers
But don’t consider him as clutch as the first 4… But my 5 spot was pretty much a coinflip between him and Ryan so…
Qui homo qui non mihi respondet est? Vir graecae linguae modo est? Seu ut me stultum faciam insidiaris quod istud me facturus esse sciat?
by NYHorn on Sep 13, 2011 4:52 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Matt Ryan, really?
Come on now. The guy has led some comebacks, but the guy just isn’t a top flight QB.
If I had a nickel for every Super Bowl the Eagles have won, I would have zero nickels.
Matt Ryan was a placeholder
I was gonna leave it blank but I thought that would be pretty weak
Qui homo qui non mihi respondet est? Vir graecae linguae modo est? Seu ut me stultum faciam insidiaris quod istud me facturus esse sciat?
by NYHorn on Sep 13, 2011 4:56 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Okay fair enough haha
If I had a nickel for every Super Bowl the Eagles have won, I would have zero nickels.
Do over
Pick Rivers and regain your seat at the royal table!!!
:-)
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Matty Ice is a pretty dam good QB...ahead of Romo and only getting better.
That team is going to be good this year despite the loss yesterday.
I disagree, but again that wasn't the point of my post
Qui homo qui non mihi respondet est? Vir graecae linguae modo est? Seu ut me stultum faciam insidiaris quod istud me facturus esse sciat?
He is not better than Romo.
That is a ridiculous claim. Go really comb through his numbers.
If I had a nickel for every Super Bowl the Eagles have won, I would have zero nickels.
I mean he is younger so it is conceivable that he could step his game up
to another level, but considering that he isn’t as good as Romo is now, I am not sure it would be fair to say that his upside is necessarily higher. I also wonder about whether Ryan can ever become more than a good bus driver since he has been criticized for an actual lack of aggressiveness. I can’t remember that being a criticism of any other great QBs but I could be wrong.
If I had a nickel for every Super Bowl the Eagles have won, I would have zero nickels.
You are
Peyton (and Dungy) were called out for that very same thing by the Idiot Kicker. Rumor had it there were others on the team who felt the same way. Strangely enough, it wasn’t long afterward (2 years maybe?) that Peyton got his bling.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
I don't count Big Ben as a QB a foolish decision, but a personal one.
Qui homo qui non mihi respondet est? Vir graecae linguae modo est? Seu ut me stultum faciam insidiaris quod istud me facturus esse sciat?
I agree with you NYHorn
its a personal one for me as well… but he did fail to comeback in last year’s superbowl which lends some support to my already formed bias.
"Confidence doesn't come out of nowhere. It's a result of something... hours and days and weeks and years of constant work and dedication." --Roger Staubach
No. Peyton (healthy), Brady, Rivers, Rodgers, Brees
Toss-up on Rodgers/Brees order.
Shame we gotta do the Peyton (healthy) thing. All good things must come to an end. Thanks, big fella. Gonna miss seeing ya play.
Cry 'Havoc!'
So much fun to watch,
Inventor of the laser pin-point pass that Rodgers loves to use so much….
Qui homo qui non mihi respondet est? Vir graecae linguae modo est? Seu ut me stultum faciam insidiaris quod istud me facturus esse sciat?
Media kills career.
Right now they are trying to kick Romo out of Cowboys land. Once you do that you’re moving 2 steps back. Probably more. Actually you’re now screwed looking for a QB to lead your team for the next few years. Probably find yourself doing something similar to the Minnesota Vikings. It’s sad how some of you think the NFL moved on with Romo. When clearly it’s just the media. Romo played 3 great quarters and made some mistakes vs. a top 3 NFL defense. Again I repeat, a top 3 defense. We’re not playing the Jets, Steelers, or Ravens anytime soon this year unless we both make the Super Bowl. So if we can put up 24 points on the Jets we’re going to put up 30 on the 49ers, Seahawks, Rams, Cardinals, Bills, Dolphins, etc… We’re good. You tell us stop drinking the Kool Aid, well stop drinking the haterade.
Residing on the BEast coast.
All I have to say
Is that an article on Bleacher Report, yes I know bane of the internet, actually suggested that Romo would be benched by week 4
Qui homo qui non mihi respondet est? Vir graecae linguae modo est? Seu ut me stultum faciam insidiaris quod istud me facturus esse sciat?
You think beating up on the 49ers will cure what ails Romo?
I disagree.
I need more than that. I also think if you start calling the Cowboys winners before they actually play the games, you might be setting yourself up for a fall.
I will, however, give you points for pointing out how hard it is to land a franchise QB. Nothing in the personnel game is harder. But I’m also not willing to just give in to that fear because Dallas has NOT invested in that position since Quincy Carter (gulp). I like to think the Trinity would do a better job now than they did then.
Either way, Romo is 31 and his clock is certainly ticking.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
I agree
I’m scared he’s gonna regress like Danny White
Qui homo qui non mihi respondet est? Vir graecae linguae modo est? Seu ut me stultum faciam insidiaris quod istud me facturus esse sciat?
Are you referencing my earlier post on that subject?
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Yup
That was really informative
Qui homo qui non mihi respondet est? Vir graecae linguae modo est? Seu ut me stultum faciam insidiaris quod istud me facturus esse sciat?
Makes me wonder if Romo's clavicle = White's wrist...
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
All I have to say
an article on Bleacher Report,yes I knowbane of the internet,
“There’s your problem right there”
Here’s a theoretical play from 2010: Snap. Tony takes 7 step drop. Tony looks left at Miles, who is doubled, and looks right to where Roy Williams should be…but instead sees Colombo on his back and a Defensive End foaming at the mouth jumping over Marc’s carcass. Tony proceeds to run like hell and look for Witten
-by CotySaxman on Jul 11, 2011 7:50 AM PDT
Am I the most optimistic Cowboys fan in the World? Yes, due to an "unfortunate accident" to the previous holder of the title.
by I am Ironman!!! on Sep 13, 2011 6:16 PM CDT reply actions
Great post, a very honest look at our QB
Romo needs to get a grip on who he is because when he is playing calm, he is among the best. BUT, as soon as the real pressure of a football game begins, he seems to tell himself “I must make the highlight reel play or we will lose”. This is when WFT?? interceptions and horrible decisions are made that cost the Cowboys games.
I didn’t get anything out of his apologies, I’ve heard it all before. My guess is that he gets this year to show JG who he is and where he can take us.
If the late game chokes continue, I guarantee that we draft a QB next year because, if not, then all the messages JG has sent thus far are rendered moot.
I never thought of it in these exact terms...
If the late game chokes continue, I guarantee that we draft a QB next year because, if not, then all the messages JG has sent thus far are rendered moot.
But you couldn’t have been more right.
This could just add to the complexity of the decision making facing the Trinity.
Wow.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Nobody said it would be easy
but JG seems hell bent on doing things his way, what he deems “the right way”.
If he is sincere about this, nobody is bigger than the team.
Still it's a 16 game season + Playoffs
Plenty of time to turn it around
Qui homo qui non mihi respondet est? Vir graecae linguae modo est? Seu ut me stultum faciam insidiaris quod istud me facturus esse sciat?
Exactly
I have zero doubt that Romo will be the QB this entire season. I’m just saying, if this had been game 16 instead of game 1, we’d be scouting quarterbacks.
I don't doubt it
Especially if that was the game that determined if we went to the playoffs or not
Qui homo qui non mihi respondet est? Vir graecae linguae modo est? Seu ut me stultum faciam insidiaris quod istud me facturus esse sciat?
Don't even want to contemplate that
Qui homo qui non mihi respondet est? Vir graecae linguae modo est? Seu ut me stultum faciam insidiaris quod istud me facturus esse sciat?
Don't. It ain't pretty, other than depressing.
btw, Billito, damn good point, the moot messages bit that kicked this off.
Cry 'Havoc!'
that is nuts
If Jason or his staff contemplated something like that then they are bigger fools than the ex coach of Denver that drafted Tebow and let Cutler go.
by playactionman on Sep 13, 2011 8:03 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
I'll ask you the same question
When does your patience with Romo run out?
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
I think for a lot of the fans,
The second that the organization backs another guy, they will too.
by Baked Potato Soup on Sep 14, 2011 1:18 PM CDT up reply actions
You're suggesting an interesting dynamic
That fans just blindly support the efforts of the organization.
Not saying you are wrong, but I hope you are.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
More like...
… heards herds. Peer-group acceptance, feeling and wanting to be part of the group, the team. One of the guys/gals.
Great herds of lemmings. Rushing blindly over the cliffs. And about as accurate and factual an assessment.
Then there’s the hardcores, the beyond-the-BS bunch, the BTBer, they’re a slightly different sort, more ornery, more thoughtful (sometimes, sometimes not), more full of it, more insightful, more right, more wrong, more ridiculous, more tolerant, more rabidly fanatic and unforgiving, more, more, more…
hopeful?
Cry 'Havoc!'
I think thats a little harsh on Romo
I highly doubt hes thinking about being on the sportscenter highlight reel in that situation.
Now we’re all just guessing, but I think its far more likely that the guy is constantly telling and training himself to be more conservative, take what the defense gives him and if nothings there and the rush is closing in, protect the ball and go down with it. Sometimes it seems to me like the guy is constantly fighting his instincts out there.
But its a little harder to do that when the game is on the line. Specifically, as Raf has pointed out, he has a list of 1st down INTs in game ending situations. He lost his composure on Sunday on that play and the fumble.
So play this out with me
Next week, it’s all tied at 17 with 2:45 left and Romo makes another Romistake (fumble, INT, whatever) that costs us the game against the 49ers. Assuming there is no blocked punt and the defense and O-line perform well again…
now what?
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
well for me
I will blame Romo….because at that point it is his fault…..
Here’s a theoretical play from 2010: Snap. Tony takes 7 step drop. Tony looks left at Miles, who is doubled, and looks right to where Roy Williams should be…but instead sees Colombo on his back and a Defensive End foaming at the mouth jumping over Marc’s carcass. Tony proceeds to run like hell and look for Witten
-by CotySaxman on Jul 11, 2011 7:50 AM PDT
Am I the most optimistic Cowboys fan in the World? Yes, due to an "unfortunate accident" to the previous holder of the title.
by I am Ironman!!! on Sep 14, 2011 1:23 PM CDT up reply actions
I'm not ready to write Romo off just yet
…but, as I said in my post, he needs to earn my trust back with his play on the field.
For those of you who have also seen him erode your support, what (specifically) does he have to do to get it back?
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
This is a very good post, Blings, as was the earlier one referencing Danny
I’ve never been down on Tony before now. I have always given him every benefit of the doubt. He’s a small school guy who never had performed on the ‘big’ stage. I knew he would need some time to work out the rookie mistakes. And since he didn’t start right out of college, the upside of his learning curve would come at a little later age than most others.
Even after the fumble Sun. nite, though I was chewing nails, I still thought we had a better than 50-50 chance to win. But to double down on his mistake the way he did, with the situation what it was, OT at least guaranteed…. and to see that he had NO chance to get that ball to his one-legged receiver…and still throw it….. I will never have the confidence in him I did only one week ago.
He now reminds me of Danny. At some point, the excuses & reasons no longer matter. And Jason’s culture of accountability will mean 0 if the starting qb is not held to the standard. Get it done. Or take a seat.
"You have to play this game like somebody just hit your mother with a 2x4." -- Dan Birdwell, Oakland Raiders
RR1 = RedRocket / RR2 = RobRyan
RR3 = Ready for Retirement(JerryJones) / rr = rabblerouser
Thank you sir
I agree with you in large part. I don’t understand how anyone oculd advocate a “signal word” or something you’d tell a Pop Warner QB to help them understand the game situation and to not give up the ball.
Ladies and gentlemen, Tony Romo is 31 years old. He has played football since he was a boy. He’s been a professional football player (that means he does this for a living) for nine years!
I think we may have already seen what Romo is and, more important, what he CAN be.
If that isn’t what this team needs to lead them to the bling, then maybe it’s time to start thinking about the evolution to a new QB.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
great post
This is on Garrett. He should have taken responsibility for this loss. Now Romo gets crushed in the media for an entire week. Why not run the ball, pound it in, worst case scenario we get 3 points.
Romo was a train wreck after the fumble, and I am sure all the old tapes of his choking nature played through his head. Garrett needs to manage the game better especially when you are on the road with a potential 10 point lead in the 4th qtr. Let Sanchez feel the pressure of having to score twice. That one fumble cause a downward spiral for the entire team.
Garrett is the leader of the team, and I think he will be a great head coach, but he’s been dealing with Romo for how long? He knows that he has QB who has a fragile psyche.
Im really surprised at Garrets handling of this
And his game decisions along with play calling. He is basically throwing Romo under the bus in my view. Man up as the ultimate leader of the team, he’s letting his best general fall on his sword. I would be concerned with Garret if I was in the Cowboys front office.
by playactionman on Sep 13, 2011 8:09 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Really?
I thought Garrett’s attack of an elite defense was outstanding. Do you know who else has scored that many points against the Jets at their house? Well, only THREE teams have scored 24 or more at their place in the last TWO SEASONS.
We’re one of those three.
I think you’re seeing a much different game than I am.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
I disagree completely
The team was disciplined. How many missed blocking assignments did we see? Did the TEAM play with the kind of intensity we all wanted?
I think the coach has to prepare his team to win and, from every angle I can see, he did that in spades.
The team was poised to beat an opponent that outgunned them and Romo clearly let them down.
If Brees or Brady or Peyton made those mistakes, they would have apologized the same way romo did. And all of them have had to apologize at times.
The problem for us is simply that Romo has had to apologize too many times in too many important games.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Great Zep reference...
my .02…My Dad’s an @$$…no joke..he says what he means,when he wants too,does what he wants,when he wants too..but over the years he’s put the booze down,and wised up alot..now my kids have a great grandfather to have…and my step-mom has a good husband..but…and here’s the thing..he’s still the @$$..and it comes out..and no matter how i to eliminate the things I can to keep that side from showing..it still comes out..now me? I know its in him and i’m prepared for it…. We need to understand that is the same with Romo..he’s matured as a qb but, he still has the Tony OhNO in him…and we’re just gonna have to deal with it until someone better can fill the spot…Still doesn’t mean we cant get mad at him or frustrated….just gotta know who your dealing with..
"Let me tell you sumthin' son ! an ass whippin' hurts no matter what kinda shape your in ! " Stone Cold Steve Austin
Very interesting take, jerry
Thanks for reading and commenting.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
I'm giving Tone a pass on this game.
Mainly due to the time off with the injury and all. See? I found an excuse!
In all honesty, we have already been down this road. He fixed it before and he will fix it again. If he was going to have the yips, this game was the one to get rid of them. I expect some stellar QBing the rest of the season!
I started out with nothing and still have most of it left
Question for you
What would make you NOT give him a pass?
When does your patience run out?
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
My patience runs out when someone on the roster is better than he is
Kitna is not better, and McGee is not better.
In addition to picking up defenders, I hope the Cowboys use a relatively high draft pick on a QB next year. It is time
Lifelong Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
My Beer Blog: http://tiltingsuds.wordpress.com/
by Seanrude on Sep 14, 2011 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
But it sounds like you're not satisfied with him
…and WANT them to find his successor at the next available opportunity.
Did I read that right?
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
"Not satisfied" is too strong. I just think QB is too important a position for a team to not have someone in development at all times
Lifelong Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
My Beer Blog: http://tiltingsuds.wordpress.com/
Actually, "not satisfied" is way too strong
I think Romo is an excellent QB who can be a part of a championship team. I do not think he is part of the NFL elite, and at his age, I do not expect him to improve to get into that small club. But I do think he is good enough to win some games, and can be an integral part of a Super Bowl winning team.
But dumping him now for Kitna or McGee would be stupid. ANd at his age, grabbing a good college qb and trying to develop him into an eventual starter is what a prudent General MAnager would do.
However, as Jerry Jones is the GM, the prudent course will probably not happen
Lifelong Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
My Beer Blog: http://tiltingsuds.wordpress.com/
Remember, this is The Season of the Trinity
It’s not just Jerry.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
We shall see
Lifelong Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
My Beer Blog: http://tiltingsuds.wordpress.com/
Let there be Light...
There, that should help.
And it ain’t that Miller light swill. Or any light or the sort. It’s Starlight.
Cry 'Havoc!'
This is my position exactly.
Drafting QBs is what smart teams do, even if they don’t need them. It netted Philly DRC and a 2nd, and who knows what Mallet could eventually command for NE. There is no reason to not reinvest in the position every few years. Hopefully this time we will pick a guy who had a little more experience throwing the ball than McGee did.
If I had a nickel for every Super Bowl the Eagles have won, I would have zero nickels.
If I see no improvement, if the silly things keep happening at the most inopportune times,
I would bench him for a game and see what that does. If he responds poorly then it’s time to roll with someone else.
Or when you put up another post with “Gallows pole” as the Zep song :)
I started out with nothing and still have most of it left
Stop reading my list of future post titles
How did you get my password???
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Ahhh, maybe one day, it'll be...
… this needs to be fixed, that needs to be adjusted, modify this, this is your responsibility, yours is over here, and you, you get the plum. Back to work. No names, no blames. Just fixin’.
A man can dream, can’t he?
But, since we’re gifted with irresponsibility, fandom, let’s roast them losers… – Bonfires, pitchforks, nooses and crucifictions. Tarrin’ and featherin’. Regular good ol’ fashioned Wild West lynchin’ combined withe the finest in Roman disciplining and a healthy side order of villager fear-mongering.
Cry 'Havoc!'
while I definitely think you are on to something here with the Romistake thing Blings
I am curious:
is it pronounced as Ro-mistake or Romi-stake? it is driving me crazy(er)…..
Here’s a theoretical play from 2010: Snap. Tony takes 7 step drop. Tony looks left at Miles, who is doubled, and looks right to where Roy Williams should be…but instead sees Colombo on his back and a Defensive End foaming at the mouth jumping over Marc’s carcass. Tony proceeds to run like hell and look for Witten
-by CotySaxman on Jul 11, 2011 7:50 AM PDT
Am I the most optimistic Cowboys fan in the World? Yes, due to an "unfortunate accident" to the previous holder of the title.
by I am Ironman!!! on Sep 14, 2011 2:54 AM CDT reply actions
The latter
Ro-mistake wouldn’t maintain the connection.
"Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"
Romi-stake through my heart so burn 'im at one
Trouble is, mistaking zombies for vampires’ll get ya kilt. Eaten alive. Switch which witch?
Cry 'Havoc!'
thanks for the Clarification Blings
Here’s a theoretical play from 2010: Snap. Tony takes 7 step drop. Tony looks left at Miles, who is doubled, and looks right to where Roy Williams should be…but instead sees Colombo on his back and a Defensive End foaming at the mouth jumping over Marc’s carcass. Tony proceeds to run like hell and look for Witten
-by CotySaxman on Jul 11, 2011 7:50 AM PDT
Am I the most optimistic Cowboys fan in the World? Yes, due to an "unfortunate accident" to the previous holder of the title.
by I am Ironman!!! on Sep 14, 2011 1:25 PM CDT up reply actions
and JMO
I prefer this as Romo’s Soundtrack myself(BTW the “Ironman” video was totally not intentional)
Here’s a theoretical play from 2010: Snap. Tony takes 7 step drop. Tony looks left at Miles, who is doubled, and looks right to where Roy Williams should be…but instead sees Colombo on his back and a Defensive End foaming at the mouth jumping over Marc’s carcass. Tony proceeds to run like hell and look for Witten
-by CotySaxman on Jul 11, 2011 7:50 AM PDT
Am I the most optimistic Cowboys fan in the World? Yes, due to an "unfortunate accident" to the previous holder of the title.
by I am Ironman!!! on Sep 14, 2011 9:15 PM CDT up reply actions
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