Rampant And Disproportionate Optimism About The Dallas Cowboys
by Tom Ryle on Jan 14, 2012 5:00 AM CST
in Dallas Cowboys General
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I try very hard to remain objective when I write my articles for BTB. During the season, I worked at only making statements that I thought could be backed up by statistics and on field performance. It was hard. I am here, first and foremost, as a Dallas Cowboys fan. I tempered my enthusiasm, and given the harsh reality we experienced, it was only appropriate.
I have been good, I think. I did what I was supposed to, I built some credibility (I think), and I hope to be here for the foreseeable future, which means that I will continue to write a lot of sober, carefully considered articles that balance the positives with the negatives. But there are times that the longing, the need, starts to build. When my resolve weakens, my hands start to shake, and all I can think about is doing it again. I can control it, but I am tired of denying it.
I WANT MY KOOL AID!!!!!!!!
So forget all the objectivity. This is not about analysis. This is not balanced. This is to a large degree my wish list, my glass-is-half-full side running wild, my love for the men who wear the Star on their helmets overwhelming my rational self, the right side of my brain telling the left side to sit down and shut the hell up. This is my crazy optimism speaking about all the things I am loving right now about what is going on with the Cowboys.
It's just for the pure fun of it. A little weekend relaxation. So don't worry, be happy with me. Let's pretend that all these things mean what I would like them to mean, and for a while, just be Cowboys homers.
The good stuff after the jump.
First, something that is near and dear to me. The lockout is ancient history. No suckitude, no idleness. A chance for a new head coach and defensive coordinator to get things ready and have a productive off season training schedule. I don't care about the arguments to the contrary, I just think that the specifics of the situation made it hard for the staff of the Cowboys to get everything done that needed to be done, given what the team had been through in 2010. I am still very much a believer in Jason Garrett, and I think JG5000's strongest attributes are organization, planning, and training, which were the elements most shortchanged by the lockout. This perspective of mine has always been a very subjective thing, based on trying to read what I see in the people involved and on parsing the things they say.
The Cowboy Way is still alive, and I think it is only going to get better. And that excites me.
And have I mentioned that I am reallllly liking the new coaching hires? Bill Callahan has an outstanding resume as an offensive line coach. The players who he left behind on the New York Jets loved him, and the team did not want him to leave. It was ironic that he left largely because the Jets would not let him interview for another job last year. But when a coach is considered a big asset by both the players and the management, then I think he is someone I am glad to see on the Cowboys staff.
I also think the Offensive Coordinator thing is all good. Callahan seems to be another coach who is good, even great, as a coordinator, but not so much as the head man. I think he will help with game planning and handling the line during the game. So what if Jason Garrett is still calling the plays? Maybe some better play from the Yuglies will mean HIS PLAYS WORK BETTER! I have no hate for Hudson Houck, but I do think he was falling behind the modern game just a tad, so I wish him nothing but good in retirement, and look forward eagerly to what Bill is going to do with the line and the offense in general.
Going back a bit to the Yuglies, I even feel good about them. Tyron Smith was a definite hit, Doug Free will likely be much more effective once they flip the two of them, Bill Nagy should come back from his broken ankle, and I think David Arkin, Phil Costa, Kevin Kowalski and Jermey Parnell will all improve under Callahan.
Jerome Henderson also gives me warm and fuzzy feelings. He had some good things going on while coaching a group in Cleveland that didn't have a bunch of stars on it. Dallas would have liked to have him all along, but he could not come with Rob Ryan due to his contract in Cleveland. Now he has managed to come on board. I am really thinking that he may be able to correct some of the issues that existed under Dave Campo. Plus he is likely to get some pretty good talent to work with.
Stephen Jones said so. I saw a comment by him that the top priorities for this year's draft are the secondary and the offensive line. Put some good talent with a good coach in the back of the defense, and I strongly believe that good things will happen.
Speaking of the draft, two very positive things happened concerning how that is likely to go. Stephen has been talking out a bit more of late, which makes me think his star is rising, so to speak, so that is a good thing. And Tom Ciskowski looks to be staying with Dallas to continue the scouting of college talent, which will be good. (Although I am sure Chia would be glad to go and help out with things if they'd just give him a call.) I am looking for a good draft this year, which would be the third one in a row if Bruce Carter pans out. I think that will happen.
And now it looks like the team may be able to keep free agent find Laurent Robinson, who has clearly stated that he wants to remain a Cowboy, and that money is not necessarily the biggest consideration. That is something else that excites me, but maybe not for the reasons you would think. I am excited because I think he came to the Cowboys and found a team and an organization that he wants to be a part of. I am very encouraged by an outsider coming in and reacting that way, Oh, sure, the fact that Tony Romo seemed to lock in on him like a heat seeking missile almost from the very start doesn't hurt, but part of my whole thing is reading between the lines and trying to peer into the hearts and minds of the people involved with the Cowboys. And I just like what I see with Mr. Robinson.
To be honest, I haven't seen a thing that has gone poorly for the Cowboys yet this offseason (knocks wildly on the nearest piece of wood). The coaching changes have been all for the better. Our resident salary cap guru, Stephen Jones, is saying that the team can do whatever it needs to. And Jason Garrett is still running the show.
So for now, I am spurning pessimism, looking only for the positive indicators, and feeling good. I've missed the Kool Aid, and for a brief while I am going to imbibe with abandon.
Want a glass?
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Jerome Henderson was a steal
Very much needed piece to RR puzzle. Henderson track record speaks volumes.
Billion dollar dream and hundred dollar nightmares
Good Article Tom
There are other things that are just different so far this year. Quietly without a lot of fanfare the Cowboys have replaced coaches in areas of concern. To me this shows that they too recognized the issues and have quickly addressed them as far as coaching. The secondary, Oline and the OC have been discussed many times here and it seems those concerns were spot on. From the comments I have read, most here feel that improvements in the coaching in those areas have been made. No drama just done.
There is no doubt that there is a clear plan in place and the trinity of JJ, Stephen and JG5000 are moving the pieces into place for a successful off season which will of course translate into wins on the field. Everything will be happy in the valley. ( ooops, maybe just a little too much rye with that Kool-aid, but you know what I mean.)
Nice job Tom
I bet it is hard at time’s looking at things like the front page writer’s has too.
I think Dave has put together the best front page staff on the web.
I am very much looking foreword in seeing how having the whole off season to work with the team and the new coach’s they have picked up put things together.
by tattooed cowboy on Jan 14, 2012 5:38 AM CST reply actions
I hope we land Kirkpatrick
So Jerome Henderson can work his CB magic and help him become a shutdown corner within 3 years. :)
by BrickTop on Jan 14, 2012 6:01 AM CST via mobile reply actions
Want a glass?
No. I’ll pass.
What the lockout showed me is that the coaches who can adjust and think on their feet will succeed. Garrett is a process guy. Process guys are great when everything is running by their processes but if one breaks down and another they usually are lost because they have no feel for when things break down.
I was under a VP at a major pharmaceutical company who was just like this. I was his right hand man.He was the Six Sigma guy. I took a few classes. Passed the tests and thought this is for dummies who can’t think there way out a paper bag. When his processes broke down I was the man that fixed them and put things back on track. Thinking on your feet can’t be learned. It’s something your born with. You either have it or you don’t.
I’m going to compare basketball players to get my point across. Take Iggy and Kobe.
Iggy has all the physical tools and some that Kobe doesn’t have but when he does a move I can see that he practiced that and is going to do the move whether he has the space or not. It’s his process. While Kobe has no clue what he’s going to do when he’s running down the paint. Yet he does it and is more successful at it because he’s just more in-tuned with what is going on around him.
See Andy Reid.
See the Patriots and Lions game.
The Patriots lost bothered me the most. I thought it would really show where Garrett was as a coach. You had two weeks to get ready for that team. Those three plays he ran at the goal line scared the shit out me as much as Garrett was scared in that game.
Is that all you got. Those three plays really.
Callahan. How was the Jets Oline during pass situations. Not good. How about their running the last two years. Not good.
Far as an OC. Callhan was under Gruden. He used Gruden’s play book. Too bad for him Gruden knew his own playbook better than Callahan in that Superbowl.
The main problem I see facing the boys is time. It’s going to take at least two years to completely fix the Oline and secondary before they are Super Bowl ready.
Well by the time that happens we will need another QB and an all pro TE.
Time is not on Garrett’s side and I don’t believe he will be given the time it takes to groom the next QB of the Dallas Cowboys.
Nor do I believe he should. He’s been here for years. He didn’t just get here.
So negative we improved last year I think we culd hve sumthing special here n a year or 2. N garrett will be here for a long time that I’m sure.
by cjs.93 on Jan 14, 2012 7:12 AM CST via mobile up reply actions
This isn't twitter
It is okay to spell out your words.
Just remember, if the world didn't suck, we'd all fall off. ~Author Unknown
by RenoCowboy on Jan 14, 2012 1:34 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
There's no helping you.
You’ve clearly stated, as fact, that 32 is too old for Jason Witten, and 34 too old for Romo.
When your lowest assumptions are wrong, it’s impossible to come to the correct conclusion.
My most recent fanpost:
The Weekly Chessmatch: Cowboys @ Eagles
by CotySaxman on Jan 14, 2012 9:24 AM CST via mobile up reply actions
What makes his opinions wrong and yours right
and why does he need help?
I only show up to mock other posters, jeer at the writing here, and make strange complaints about internet culture.
He makes many assumptions, and states them as fact.
Do you think Romo will be horrible at 34 and Witten at 32? He said as much. When you try to arrive at fact using logic based on opinion, it doesn’t work.
My most recent fanpost:
The Weekly Chessmatch: Cowboys @ Eagles
by CotySaxman on Jan 14, 2012 9:54 AM CST via mobile up reply actions
Time time time
I like your thought process Sharky, I really do. However,
As Coty pointed out, two more years from Romo shouldn’t be a problem. QBs now play well into their 30s. Romo is actually younger than Brees, Brady, P Manning. And if you recall, there’s been MUCH speculation about whether Indy should draft Luck or not and how much longer Peyton will be effective. A 34 or 35 yr old QB is fine.
Now, Witten has clearly slowed a little. He’s still elite. He still makes 70-80% of the plays he’s supposed to make. He still gets separation and blocks with the best of them. Will he in 2 years – I’d say probably so.
But, more important is the LOGIC you used to derive your opinion. It’s actually contradictory. I agree w/ you that some people need a process and any failure along the timeline of the process confuses them – but Romo and Witten aren’t those types. They never will be. So as they get older, they also get better. They get more intuitive. They use knowlede to compensate for any losses in athleticism. Both should have no problem playing at a high level for the next 3-5 years.
So be careful how you fortify your assumptions…
by Tyrone Jenkins on Jan 14, 2012 5:39 PM CST up reply actions
All those qb's play with better o lines.
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 8:17 PM CST up reply actions
Two years from now
The Cowboys O line will be different. Hopefully, it will be better…
by Tyrone Jenkins on Jan 14, 2012 10:15 PM CST up reply actions
Romo will have a better OLine in 2012
"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."
by Rohpuri on Jan 14, 2012 10:22 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
I think you are wrong
but you are not. Your well worded bitter pill balances the sugary sweetness of this post.
I agree with you about processes, but I don't agree with your first sentence.
I knew the lockout would affect us more than other teams but not because of Garrett’s process. It’s because he was a new HC with a new DC trying to implement their new systems.
That Lean Six Sigma stuff is a bunch of crap, though.
In the 17 seasons from 1966-1982, the Cowboys went at least to the conference championship game 14 times. In the 16 seasons from 1996-2011, the Cowboys have won 2 wild card games.
I can't watch much playoff football when the Boys are out but I caught the end of the Saints/49ers. Garrett needs to work on conneting with the players more like those coaches.
I know, I know, “Tom Landry wasn’t emotional, look at this coach, blah blah..” I get it, look at my icon!
But Athletes today are different, and I think there’s got to be some connection between the coach and players, and I don’t see much w/JG.
I thought as a former player he’d be looser on the sidelines. Especially when things are going badly, take the headphones off for a second and talk to the guys!
No need to be a Harbaugh or even Sean Peyton, but I’m hoping he gets beter at that.
I saw enough of the constipated looks from Wade.
Pessimists say the cup is half-empty, while optimists say it's half-full. Well, the real question is, is it a good beer? Realist Larry, 2011
by Realist Larry on Jan 14, 2012 11:58 PM CST up reply actions
Any ideas wherre this stereotype comes from?
Maybe it should say “I don’t see Garrett getting emotional with players replayed on SportsCenter”
Or “I don’t see Garrett tearfully embracing players during his press conferences”
He’s a very emotional, energetic coach. This was the stark contrast between him and Wade. He’s an organized disciplinarian, but that doesn’t mean he has any less emotion.
Wade was known to be nice to his players, but was he emotional on the sidelines? No, just lost. Add in the fact that San Francisco hasn’t improved in much other than luck, and I just don’t see an argument.
My most recent fanpost:
The Weekly Chessmatch: Cowboys @ Eagles
when things are going GOOD, absolutely
when things are going bad I see very little except the puckered up look.
A lot like Romo, when things are going well he’s emotional, but when things are going badly he tends to clam up.
Pessimists say the cup is half-empty, while optimists say it's half-full. Well, the real question is, is it a good beer? Realist Larry, 2011
by Realist Larry on Jan 15, 2012 3:17 PM CST up reply actions
You are a neanderthal, Sharksbreath.
That’s a complement by the way.
"Hope is not a strategy" Billy Beane
"There is no cause for concern" Jerry Jones
have faith
Know its earlie n we don’t even know who the 2012 cowboys will be but I see a 11-5 season this season
by cjs.93 on Jan 14, 2012 7:09 AM CST via mobile reply actions
a 2 game improvement might get Dallas a wildcard next year as well.
All they can do is keep improving. if the fan base sees this itll be better. Dallas will always have the haters thats not gonna change tho.
finish the Oline rebuild
by yehti on Jan 14, 2012 7:24 AM CST via mobile up reply actions
Need a Good Draft
Gil brandt mentioned last night on Sirius radio show that the 2 worst teams drafting , (considering how many picks and how many are starters) were New England and Dallas. We have kept players on from Parcells era that I think aren’t that good. Maybe out of necessity cause the drafts have failed to bring in anyone to replace their spot on the roster.
Mel Kiper dropped us from b- to c+, mainly because we only found 2 players in last years draft that contributed.
And if Jerry would’ve just stayed pat and not made the Williams trade who knows this team might be one of the best in the league.
You are quoting that Kiper article?
You know he downgraded us because Nagy and DeMarco went on IR?
I am still shaking my head over him dinging us for drafting DeMarco.
^%%$#(*&!!!**$ Willims trade.
I will never in my life understand that.
Or that fans here defended it for 2 years!
What a huge loss to get a loser.
Pessimists say the cup is half-empty, while optimists say it's half-full. Well, the real question is, is it a good beer? Realist Larry, 2011
by Realist Larry on Jan 14, 2012 11:59 PM CST up reply actions
Sharksbreath
Summed it one well with the coaching staff.
I will continue the thread with the front office. While I agree the OL should be a focus in the draft, i do not agree that the defensive backfield should be a focus. The defensive line should be the focus. Compare the gints and there defense. there defensive line is probably the best in football not because they have an all world stud (although the guy with the hyphenated name is on his way)…it is because of depth and because everyone is talented and no one can be double teamed without opening up the barn door for someone else. This hides the basic fact that their secondary is lousy. Pressuring the qb is the name of the game in the modern world NFL. One extra second of time for even an average QB means the difference between an incompletetion or a 25 yrd pass play and a new set of downs.
Although at times, our corners/safeties looked like DIII talent, they can be servicable if we can get pressure on the QB.
It's for this reason
that I’ll never be on board with spending a first round pick on a CB
I only show up to mock other posters, jeer at the writing here, and make strange complaints about internet culture.
Agree also
Although I hate anything that praises the giants
Look at
Kegbearer’s post from a few days ago (http://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2012/1/11/2698078/dallas-cowboys-2011-defense-pass-rush-grade).
We have a top 10 pass rush. We need the defensive backs to step it up.
"Wade is no longer the coach." Jason Garrett
"It's football season, and football players usually play football during football season." Tony Romo
by k2spitfire88 on Jan 14, 2012 4:39 PM CST up reply actions
I don't agree....
There were a number of times and I’m going to say a great number of times that … it was a coverage issue and not a pressure issue. They didn’t give the DB’s 5 seconds… for example Newman on the pass to Cruz … that was a timing play and took barely 3 secs… Manning had an open Cruz before the QB could get pressure and it’s out of his hands and heading down field for 76 yards! There were very few passes that came from lack of pressure… yea we didn’t sack Manning a lot that’s because he was throwing quick slants and short passes most of the time and when he did get time.. he aired it out deep. He didn’t have that time every play. He just had options short to his backs or TEs that he could dump to that took it for 1st because of lack of ILB speed and coverage ability and 2nd lack of an inside push. He was able to step up… NT, DE’s.
Still if he can step back and hit an open receiver in 2.4-3.0 seconds it’s not the pressure it’s the coverage.
RexP
by Rex Pfister on Jan 16, 2012 12:00 PM CST up reply actions
That's an "if all works out" scenario
But it’s not too far-fetched. Campo’s unit just didn’t do the same since he came back, and Callahan is going to really help game preparation, although I hope there aren’t any hiccup’s in Tron’s development… he has all-pro for a decade written all over him.
Resigning Robinson is a must. There’s not a snowball’s chance in hell Miles and Dez each play 16 games each next season (I give the over/under 24 between the two), and we can’t afford to take the drop-off.
Great post.
I will awaken my expectations for the Cowboys when Jerry Jones is in the ground.
I have no faith in Jerry Jones
I have no hope as long as Jeruh has the ability to screw things up.I could drink an ocean of kool-aid and if I see the “I’am the General, Manager” messing with this team I will discard my Blue colored sunglasses and turn my back on the glare.
I have been a Cowboy fan since the teams’ inception and at my age I don’t know how many seasons I have left, just like Romo.
The glass half full person in me says we jettisoned lots of capable players last year to correct contract mistakes and bad trades JJ made.We didn’t sign any significant FAs.The big deal about Nnamdi was all show by Jones.With all that we were just a few plays away from being the divisional champs.
The post about getting the right kind of guys (RKG) vs the wrong kind of guys (WKG) rang very true to me.the example of getting rid of Marty B ie WKG and adding someone like the Pats’ Grownkowski or Hernandez would put the lead in your pencil.
It seems that our D couldn’t stop anyone at crunch time.No rush on the QB and no coverage by the DBs.I hated to see Rat and Ware playing thier hearts out and the play of the DBs who needed to back up to the pay line to get thier checks.
I too like Tom think significant improvement can be made.At least enough to win the Division next year.Needed one nose tackle,one shut down corner,one free safety,one center,one pass rusher and one guard.Can we get all of this during the off season.Probably not but if we could fill at least three of these positions we should be a better team.
The posters on this site are the best.They know what needs to be done.
Getting the two new coaches at the area of most need is a great first step forward.Now we need to draft the BPAs and get the RKG free agents and we will be on the roadback to the playoffs.You can’t win the Super Bowl if you aren’t in the playoffs that’s for sure.
by TCB Orange Dino on Jan 14, 2012 7:54 AM CST reply actions
Inferior talent trumps superior coaching all day.
The Jet’s have two all pro’s and that line was very average. Callahan has proven to be a mediocre coach at all levels.
Tom Landry couldn’t have helped the secondary from this past season.. There is just not any talent in the secondary. Add to that the signing of Sensi and you have to wonder what Jerry is doing. Of course we have been wondering that for years.
Dallas will always have the haters thats not gonna change tho.
Having skepticism or taking a realistic approach to a mediocre team is not hating. Blindly drinking kool-aid is an approach that most have here. Your peroggative. The entertainment value of posters saying realistic fans are haters is off the charts. I am beginning however to see more and more posters getting tired of the perpetual mediocrity and lack of guidance on this team.
Not only do I hope we choose a great player in this draft , I hope that we draft someone , anyone who can take over a locker room. I was listening to some Nfl guys discussing Harbaugh for the Niners. All said he is a force of nature. They may lose to the Saints but they have hope. I don’t see Garrett as a force of nature. I don’t see him as a great leader able ot motivate. Dallas needs a dynamic force in the locker room. Someone to captivate and unify the players cause.
Kool aid drinkers and realist alike all have one thing in common…..we want Dallas to win in the end
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
When you proclaim yourself as a realist and then say stuff
. I don’t see Garrett as a force of nature. I don’t see him as a great leader able ot motivate. Dallas needs a dynamic force in the locker room.
Really just contradicts yourself. There is no way you, realist or not, would know what kind of force or locker room presence he has.
"Obviously, I felt like if I ran into my lineman there it was going to help the play" ~Tony Romo
5 lost 4th quarter leads as opposed to "13-3". Nuff said.
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 8:44 AM CST up reply actions
Wade Phillips had a 13-3 teams what does that mean?
Was he a force?
"Obviously, I felt like if I ran into my lineman there it was going to help the play" ~Tony Romo
Wade failed in his biggest game in Dallas.
That team had talent. I think you know the answer to your own question.
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 8:46 AM CST up reply actions
Oh so...
Harbaugh failed in his biggest game in San Francisco.
That team had talent.
"Obviously, I felt like if I ran into my lineman there it was going to help the play" ~Tony Romo
Has Harbaugh failed ? The game hasn't been played yet.
Harbaugh has a stiff at qb. Is Romo a stiff ?
Ham you are one of the top posters for entertainment value regarding kool aid.
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 8:56 AM CST up reply actions
Oh so now you are making excuses for Harbaugh.
And you have an inferiority complex, because you proclaim yourself a realist and anyone else who doesn’t seem the doom and gloom is just an idiot right? If Jerry is the end why don’t you just leave until he leaves.
"Obviously, I felt like if I ran into my lineman there it was going to help the play" ~Tony Romo
Ham you sound miffed. Are you ?
Difference between excuse and fact. Romo >>>>>>>>>>>>>Smith. Surely an astute fan like you can understand this or…maybe not.
anyone else who doesn’t seem the doom and gloom is just an idiot right?
You words not mine. I said we all want to get to the same place. Some of us have a different view. Doesn’t make anyone right or wrong. The kool aid drinkers like yourself seem to get all bent over a different view. The realist faction have a calmer take on the situation.
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 9:16 AM CST up reply actions
"realists"
Are like the little rich kids who whine when their Christmas car was a BMW and not a Lamborghini. Could be self-worth issues causing them to lash out at the world around them.
I wonder if you trolled the LSU forums as hard as these ones after Bama exposed them for what they are.
My most recent fanpost:
The Weekly Chessmatch: Cowboys @ Eagles
by CotySaxman on Jan 14, 2012 9:33 AM CST via mobile up reply actions
Awww look at little Coty trying to pile on (in desperation)
Lsu had a great season. Beat Bama the first time. Won the Sec. Not bad for a team that was targeting 2012. Like I said in an earlier post…any astute Lsu fan knew that we were targeting 2012. We knew Jefferson and Lee weren’t able qb’s. Everything we did this year was gravy.
You trying to pile on the Lsu loss truly and I mean this truly makes laugh out loud.
Realist see things for what they really are……..you aren’t one of those. Open ..insert kool aid…..swallow… Your daily m.o. …
Now have a great day Coty.
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 9:42 AM CST up reply actions
Look at little "mensa"
Calling a 270 pound Marine veteran “little”.
Good job getting defensive, though. It’s funny how you’re full of excuses for lsu but don’t care at all about the Cowboys.
Guess you’re kinda like Pete Carrol. Great with college football, but lost when it comes to the pro game.
My most recent fanpost:
The Weekly Chessmatch: Cowboys @ Eagles
by CotySaxman on Jan 14, 2012 9:48 AM CST via mobile up reply actions
I think he called you little because your reply to him was childish
And everyone on the internetz is a 280lb Marine.
Nice efforts in trolling.
You provoked and insulted him then accuse him of being defensive.
I only show up to mock other posters, jeer at the writing here, and make strange complaints about internet culture.
Hahaha.
You obviously don’t have any awareness of our “history”. And I’m fairly little in my picture, a mere 220. What do you want, my disability benefits? My GI Bill? Just because you have a computer doesn’t make you me. Congratulations, though, first to accuse me of trolling.
My most recent fanpost:
The Weekly Chessmatch: Cowboys @ Eagles
by CotySaxman on Jan 14, 2012 9:59 AM CST via mobile up reply actions
No excuse. I keep it real about LSU too.
LSU nation knew what we had at qb. 13-1 in the sec and beating Bama at Bama is damn strong. Looking forward to next year.
Pro ball is a different dynamic. You tried though you big ol 270lbs Marine. LMAO. You too are entertaining.
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 9:56 AM CST up reply actions
Excuse me for my service.
Can I at least post on Veterans Day? Is it so hard to believe that someone on the internet has done something with their life?
Facebook me or something. You’ve got my wedding picture here. Or come find me. I’m enrolled at RIT. Hell, next weekend you can watch me online, since I’ve got my first shoot tomorrow. If you haven’t done anything significant in your life, well, that sucks. Don’t drag me down.
My most recent fanpost:
The Weekly Chessmatch: Cowboys @ Eagles
by CotySaxman on Jan 14, 2012 10:12 AM CST via mobile up reply actions
You're excused.
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 10:33 AM CST up reply actions
Eagles
Did you see what Howard Mudd did with the eagles o-line? A 6th round rookie center and career back-up got whipped into elite players. Superior coaching makes superior talent.
by bitterlyhonest on Jan 14, 2012 1:29 PM CST up reply actions
I take it you were stationed at the DMZ? Or is your bride japanese?
Hard to tell from the pic. Either way congratulations and thanks for your service, from a fellow vet.
In the 17 seasons from 1966-1982, the Cowboys went at least to the conference championship game 14 times. In the 16 seasons from 1996-2011, the Cowboys have won 2 wild card games.
I was at KBay. She's Japanese.
Kaneohe Bay is the 3rd Regiment’s base on Oahu.
Thanks for not being as sarcastic as everyone else, and of course for your service as well.
My most recent fanpost:
The Weekly Chessmatch: Cowboys @ Eagles
I did a tour at Pearl.
Loved every minute of it and the ladies. Didn’t get hitched though, which in my opinion is a good thing.
In the 17 seasons from 1966-1982, the Cowboys went at least to the conference championship game 14 times. In the 16 seasons from 1996-2011, the Cowboys have won 2 wild card games.
You are a pessimist but your inferiority complex makes you think you are a realist.
"Obviously, I felt like if I ran into my lineman there it was going to help the play" ~Tony Romo
Reaching hard today ham.
btw the 13-3 reference was about how you kept posting 13-3. Then after they lose the 3rd game you posted 12-4. LOL. That right there says it all.
Like I said tho you are entertaining….sometimes !
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 3:24 PM CST up reply actions
Whats the point of being a fan predicting anything less?
"Obviously, I felt like if I ran into my lineman there it was going to help the play" ~Tony Romo
How can
you speak on Garrett as if you know the type of coach he is behind the scenes? You don’t. All this talk about having a leader and taking over locker rooms is solved with winning. The 49ers are doing that. Good for them. I agree with you that Cowboys optimists and realists have one goal in mind. It’s times like these that make it all the much better when we win it all, and with Garrett at the helm it’s very much possible sooner rather than later. Give it time to develope.
by BrickTop on Jan 14, 2012 8:52 AM CST via mobile up reply actions
Waited 16 years for it to develop.
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 8:58 AM CST up reply actions
Seems to me
that no matter what happens, good or bad, you won’t be satisfied. Unless of course it’s done exactly the way you want it.
by BrickTop on Jan 14, 2012 9:04 AM CST via mobile up reply actions
Inaccurate Brick.
They win I will be good with it.
When they had their 90’s run I told my Dallas buddies you’re gonna have to paitent. Jerry deserves 4 years to churn this roster and rebuild. It’s been 16 years. Jerry didn’t have the foresight to draft a qb to have ready when Troy retired. From then on it has been downhill.
So how much longer should Jerry have ?
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 9:10 AM CST up reply actions
Well.. Don't want to really answer that question.
Think we all know..
by BrickTop on Jan 14, 2012 9:16 AM CST via mobile up reply actions
mensa did i say you were a hater?
Dallas is the most loved and most hated team in American sports. thats what i meant. i know you like the Cowboys your a pessimist others are optimist.
finish the Oline rebuild
by yehti on Jan 14, 2012 9:00 AM CST via mobile up reply actions
wrong as usual
Callahan has actually been shown to be a very good O L coach. But in your continuing fantasy world no coach is good at Dallas. No players are either. Your world is a sad one indeed
Actually no one here has a screen name so far from the truth
by burmafrd1944 on Jan 14, 2012 9:02 AM CST up reply actions
LOO Burm.....how can you defend the cumulative effort from Dallas ?
Thye have some outstanding players. Like 3. They need more.
What did Callahn do with the Jet’s o line ?
See burm you take it personal. I don’t. I want the same ending you do. I don’t open and swallow like you do. I am a results kind of guy. The results have been bad.
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 9:06 AM CST up reply actions
Well Callahan did have a hand in having the best offensive line in football for a long stretch of time. He was so terrible that the Jets denied him his right to go interview with other teams and poisoned their relationship with Callahan. Numerous linemen are on record proclaiming their indebtedness to his great coaching. I believe two of them went as far as calling it career saving.
No, you can gloss over all of that when you’re a realist, rooted in reality. Teeming with objective interpretation. A fact based fanatic. Statistical maven and staunch defender of the real realm.
by G_SWAG on Jan 14, 2012 1:26 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
I want to point out something:
Nick Mangold:
Height: 6035
Weight: 300
40 Yrd Dash: 5.05
20 Yrd Dash: 2.95
10 Yrd Dash: 1.72
225 Lb. Bench Reps: 24
Vertical Jump: 27 1/2
Broad Jump: 08’08"
20 Yrd Shuttle: 4.40
3-Cone Drill: 7.48
Bill Nagy
Height: 6027
Weight: 302
40 Yrd Dash: 5.05
20 Yrd Dash: 2.91
10 Yrd Dash: 1.75
225 Lb. Bench Reps: 26
Vertical Jump: 30 1/2
Broad Jump: 09’02"
20 Yrd Shuttle: 4.47
3-Cone Drill: 7.36
Also:
D’Brickishaw Ferguson:
Height: 6060
Weight: 312
40 Yrd Dash: 5.08
20 Yrd Dash:
10 Yrd Dash:
225 Lb. Bench Reps:
Vertical Jump: 30
Broad Jump: 8’11"
20 Yrd Shuttle: 4.85
3-Cone Drill: 7.62
Tyron Smith:
Height: 6050
Weight: 307
40 Yrd Dash: 4.93
20 Yrd Dash: 2.87
10 Yrd Dash: 1.69
225 Lb. Bench Reps: 31
Vertical Jump: 29
Broad Jump: 09’01"
20 Yrd Shuttle: 4.68
3-Cone Drill: 7.47
Now I don’t have the info on Alan Faneca(Draft Scout only goes back to 1999(Faneca came into the league in ‘98), and I am NOT saying that Nagy will become the next Nick Mangold, but maybe with a little coaching from a guy that made Mangold an All Pro’s…that maybe he could get Nagy to be above average?
just saying is all
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
Now, if somebody doesn’t agree with that, that’s cool. I also don’t agree with the fact that I don’t have $10 million in my bank account. But the fact that I don’t agree with it doesn’t make it any less true.
by One.Cool.Customer on Dec 23, 2010 12:00 AM PST
by I am Ironman!!! on Jan 14, 2012 8:27 PM CST up reply actions
Well said, Mensa.
It would be a shame if this blog was for Kool-Aid drinkers only. “Realist” fans want to win as badly as ‘blind faith" fans. But we are not going accept calling a mediocre team anything other than a mediocre team. The way to improve the team is debatable, but exercising minimal change in the coaching staff after last year is not the fastest way to improve IMO. If the staff remains as is, I will expect the same result until shown otherwise. Fans last year expected more from the team, myself included. Caution is this season’s watchword.
"Hope is not a strategy" Billy Beane
"There is no cause for concern" Jerry Jones
Mensa...
I don’t think Mensa or Larry are haters they just have a different opinion and for the love of the team voice it. I think be it negative or not, it’s their opinions and they have every right to them.
NOTE: (wink) I don’t agree with any of it, though. LOL
Still until we actually visit the locker room during halftime… I’m not sure what kind of motivator he (Garrett) is. Not willing to say either way.
RexP
by Rex Pfister on Jan 16, 2012 12:06 PM CST up reply actions
Hard To Be Optimistic
When you have a World Class Top 5 6th year starting QB who has won as many playoff games as Miracle Timmy, and Tommy Gun TJ! Wonder if our guy will pick up any tips on how to play the game right while he’s watching the game from his sofa downing a 6 (or 2 or 3) of Bud Light, reminiscing of the good old days of playoff prep in Mexico with Jessica…
I agree with this.
We should trade for TJ Yates or Matt Flynn this offseason.
"Obviously, I felt like if I ran into my lineman there it was going to help the play" ~Tony Romo
All I had to do was put on my doofus hat.
"Obviously, I felt like if I ran into my lineman there it was going to help the play" ~Tony Romo
I'm Sure
You didn’t have to look hard to find it.
Nope, I borrowed one of yours.
"Obviously, I felt like if I ran into my lineman there it was going to help the play" ~Tony Romo
You don't have to trade for Flynn. He is a free agent.
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 8:45 AM CST up reply actions
And He Didn't
Play football at that bastion of College Football Eastern Illinois University!
Jim, Romo is good dude. Think Quincy to Romo.....
who would you rather have ? When I say Quincy to Romo think of all the other qb’s in between.
Romo has played on a rudderless ship for a gm who can’t build a team through the draft. Jerry had talent on the 07 team but he bought a lot of it. The problem with that is that soulution is short lived. Which proved to be true.
He isn’t Brees, Brady or Rodgers but he is better than most.
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 9:02 AM CST up reply actions
im sure a team will grab Flynn
this time next year we will all see if Flynn panned out or not. personally i dont have any problems with Romo. i remember how it was after Aikman and before Romo.
finish the Oline rebuild
by yehti on Jan 14, 2012 9:03 AM CST via mobile up reply actions
I do think that no later than next year they have to look for some developmental prospects
A guy like Mallett last year would have been a good choice to look at to develop…granted I’m glad they took Murray instead, but I’d look for another QB like that to develop behind Romo.
Maybe even Mark Sanchez...
I mean he’s won four playoff games right? How many have Brees or Rodgers won?
It's like putting up a sign saying
“no haters allowed”
They flock to it.
My most recent fanpost:
The Weekly Chessmatch: Cowboys @ Eagles
by CotySaxman on Jan 14, 2012 10:38 AM CST via mobile up reply actions
I think Robinson will be back in Dallas
And if the Cowboys have the same frugal off-season mindset from last year it will hopefully be to a cap-friendly contract.
The Falcons cut him because he couldn’t stay healthy
The Rams cut him after only putting up 340 yards with Sam Bradford
and he couldn’t make the Chargers’ active roster.
Robinson has a ton of red flags and the only place he’s worked out is in Dallas. He’d be a fool not to stay here. He may be able to get bigger deals but they’ll be low guaranteed money so if he get injured like 2009 or does poorly like in 2010 he’ll be right back in the unemployment line.
by Blue Eyed Devil on Jan 14, 2012 10:06 AM CST reply actions
Objectivity
I must admit – seems to be rare on here. You writers do a pretty fair job of it (everyonce in a while you’ll let the emotion bug get you) and I do appreciate it.
What would be nice if the FANS could show some as well.
Besides all that, excellent article Tom.
by Tyrone Jenkins on Jan 14, 2012 10:09 AM CST reply actions
Tyrone I think some fans have been hardened by what has transpired over the last 16 years.
Like I said we all want the same end result. No right , no wrong…….just when will we get there ?
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 10:32 AM CST reply actions
I would agree
but familiarity breeds unrealistic expectation.
Let’s say you decide, on your own, to give someone (like a family member) $1,000,000 every year for their birthday. They are very appreciative for it and you’re happy that they’re happy. So you continue doing this for the next 5 years.
On the 6th year, you give that same family member a nice, brand new, high def TV. No more $1,000,000 for them. How do you think they’d respond?
I will tell you, they’d be PISSED! Absolutely livid actually. They would have built up the expectation of the $1,000,000 gift and would be extremely ungrateful toward anything the consider as less (even though it is truly a gift that is volunteered to them).
That is the Dallas Cowboys fans. The previous history of success coupled with the comfort of being and notoriety of being “America’s Team” has developed into an unrealistic expectation of something that just isn’t possible.
The 2007 team that went 13-3 overachieved but we all thought they were really that good. And, in the years since, many fans still feel as if this team has a lot of talent. Even sport announcers mention it. Talent everywhere on this team just need that “it” to get them over the hump.
I for one love articles like this as it helps to bring the fan base back down to reality. This team does NOT have a lot of talent on it. There are 2 elite players – Ware and Witten. There are about 4 solid players – Romo, Austin, Lee and Smith. Everyone else, even though they may have shown glimpses of greatness, are AVERAGE when compared to others around the league that play the same position. Their play confirms this – profootballfocus will show you.
So, hardening or not, the objectivity of most Dallas Cowboys fans is non-existent.
by Tyrone Jenkins on Jan 14, 2012 5:52 PM CST up reply actions
Mensa....
My note: This is for all the fans out there… not just Dallas fans. You are a fan of a team in the light of day… You support them, root for them, want the best for them. Every Spring you watch who they pick in the draft or take in free agency. You hope and pray and look forward to the Pre-season to see how these rookies will work out with great optimism or otherwise. (depending) Then the season starts you have your hopes up… that the changes made in the off-season will translate into wins during the season and your team makes the playoffs.
That only happens for 12 of the 32 teams in the NFL. and only 8 of those make it further until finally it’s only 1 of 32 teams that can claim they are the SUPERBOWL CHAMPIONS! 1 of 32… being realistic or speaking that way… even if you are very good. You must win at least 3 games against similarly gifted teams to win that prize. aka a 16-0 New England team losing to the Gnats or more recently a 15-1 Green Bay team losing to those same Gnats…. even a NO team losing to a not so great SF team. I think they were pretty good myself.
Realistically we should have only… the odds being even across the board have 2 maybe 3 superbowl Championships… we should have only gone to the Superbowl 4 to 5 times. By the odds we should have never appeared in 8 Superbowls…
Speaking realistically would be like being a Saints fan… See no matter how they look at it… They are always hoping that they are going to get to the Superbowl… They support their team even if they lose 12 games every year for 40 years. I mean really Detroit made it’s first trip to the Superbowl… how did their fans feel to lose that one… Oh and Stafford couldn’t possibly be a great QB… he lost his first playoff game and threw 2 INTs in the process so he should have to live that down for the next 20 years too!
RexP
by Rex Pfister on Jan 16, 2012 12:28 PM CST up reply actions
Piney?
I think Tom got lost for a little while cuz this right here is a Pineywoods post all day! Glad to see him surface once in a while the Kool-Aid is always delicious when there isnt a lockout looming!
As for mensa he’s been here so long why do you guys hastle him so? We all know how he feels and its whatever cuz its just the man’s views on the subject. We should all welcome the different opinions as they make us think more and thinking can lead to new views on a subject. I don’t always agree with him and usually don’t but that doesnt mean im gonna blast him for writing his opinion, just like he doesnt blast me for writing mine even when its extremely homerish. As he stated we all want the same thing a Cowboys win year in and year out.
Optimissum Prime sees nothing but the best for America's Team!!!
by Cowboys_Attack on Jan 14, 2012 10:37 AM CST reply actions
I just wanted to do a little ol' feel good piece.
Didn’t want any debate here. Just some good old fashioned blind optimism. Plus a chance to have a little fun.
Oh, well. Everybody has an opinion.
Formerly Pineywoods - different name, same cockeyed view of the world.
Jason Garrett - Lord of Order
Rob Ryan - Lord of Chaos
by Tom Ryle on Jan 14, 2012 10:43 AM CST reply actions 2 recs
Shrimp Happens!
Optimissum Prime sees nothing but the best for America's Team!!!
by Cowboys_Attack on Jan 14, 2012 12:57 PM CST up reply actions
Too early to feel good
I am still smarting from the way the season ended. Once the giants lose, my attitude may change.
Hard to be optimistic when they were so close in 2007 (13-3) and have slipped so far since.
Jerry remains a problem in that he hangs onto wasted talent (R Williams Wade Philips) too long now as opposed to the opposite way he ran the team from 97-2004. (Going through coaches like water)
But I agree, hearing from Stephen might be that little light at the end of the tunnel.
I would love to work for the Cowboys as a scout or something
"I got the 9 on me so I think I'm Romo"
Fabolous
by Archie Barberio on Jan 14, 2012 11:05 AM CST reply actions
Chia it's hard to get into.
Even with the people I know I can’t get anyone to give me a shot. I have been on the radio before and such but it doesn’t matter. It’s a tight knit community. It doesn’t pay well either when you start out. One of my buddies in Fla was trying to get us a Sirius gig but we couldn’t get enough support. It was fun trying though. If you would like to do more radio stuff you could try an online station. I’m sure you would get some followers from this blog.
One of the things about being on the radio is you have to report what you see. It’s not about fluff and kool aid. You will get shot down real quick.
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 11:21 AM CST up reply actions
AJ Foyt IV did it the old fashioned way
Married Irsay’s daughter because he sucked at driving Indy cars
'I have wasted Time and Time doth waste me'
Jerry Jones as Richard II - Act 5, Scene 5
Baseball's probably an easier field to get into.
The NFL typically hires “football guys” and since the sport’s about twenty years behind the curve, they’re not hiring super smart dudes that love football. Every MLB team has at least five guys on the staff with degrees in Math and several with degrees in Economics. They’ve embraced the idea of using quantifiable analysis in assembling a team, they also hire guys with degrees in biomechanics to judge which pitchers will have the best chance at staying healthy along with other guys to help out the team. They pay like garbage, and that’s why you see trust fund kids from the Ivies like Jed Hoyer running teams now.
If you want to get into the sport, I’d recommend looking everywhere around the league seeing if any team’s hiring for a FO job. Take it, and try to transition to a scout. Be prepared to get paid like crap though.
I have to ask where this
Kool-Aid term came from?
"Fear the Star" -A WISE Man!
by mho on Jan 14, 2012 11:27 AM CST via iPhone app reply actions
I don't know the point of origin
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 11:30 AM CST up reply actions
From what I understand
the Expression “drinking the Kool-Aid” comes from the John Jones(?) Mass Suicide…The Poison used was placed in A container of “kool-aid” and passed around.
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
Now, if somebody doesn’t agree with that, that’s cool. I also don’t agree with the fact that I don’t have $10 million in my bank account. But the fact that I don’t agree with it doesn’t make it any less true.
by One.Cool.Customer on Dec 23, 2010 12:00 AM PST
by I am Ironman!!! on Jan 14, 2012 11:58 AM CST up reply actions
actually it was Flavor Aid that was used in Jonestown
but Kool Aid is like the Kleenex and Xerox of flavored sugar drinks… so that is where the term originated…. means drink poison and commit mass suicide, yoo-hoo! lol
"When you want to win a game, you have to teach. When you lose a game, you have to learn."—Tom Landry
Jim Jones and the mass suicide at Jonestown, Guyana, in 1978
Here is the Wikipedia article on Jonestown.
Followers of cult leader Jim Jones committed mass suicide by drinking cyanide-laced containers. Children were injected in the mouth from a syringe (the same way that they take liquid medicine today).
“Drinking the Kool-Aid” became a slang expression for being totally bought-in to an organization or philosophy. Jones’ followers drank the Kool-Aid because they believed in him.
Pineywoods, er, Tom, I am Ironman!!!, and others of us that are totally bought-in to the Cowboys drink the Kool-Aid daily, and expect every season to start well and end better.
I am not the one that predicted 19-0 before the season, but I did pick them to win sixteen times on KD’s 10-for-10 contest. I am Ironman!!! passed the crown to me late in the season (read my current sig). I think I earned it with my I Did the Math series.
(Hands over crown)... Dude seriously you are the most optimistic Fan in the world……
--by I am Ironman!!! on Dec 17, 2011 4:55 AM CST
this is how you know you're getting old. Common cultural touchstones are not so 'common' anymore.
I have so many expressions my kids don’t get.
Pessimists say the cup is half-empty, while optimists say it's half-full. Well, the real question is, is it a good beer? Realist Larry, 2011
by Realist Larry on Jan 15, 2012 12:07 AM CST up reply actions
Here is some more good news.
All of the positions that are likely to have some degree of turnover have some younger players in place that will get an opportunity to step up. Elam will probably be replaced by Church. If Spencer leaves, Butler will be there with Albright behind him (in case Dallas needs a rotation to stop the run and rush the passer).
Newman will probably move on due to a bloated salary and declining play, and Scandrick will get his big chance. Phillips will take over for Bennett, who needs to find an offense that attempts to make him a bigger part of the passing game. Spears and Coleman may need to find another team with Lissemore developing and Brent’s progress limited by injury last season.
Garrett started this season by getting younger and giving inexperienced players opportunities on offense. I expect the Cowboys will continue that on offense and do the same on defense.
The youth on the team is a plus.
With older players you know what you have with the possibility of decline due to age. With younger players there is always the potential of exceeding expectations. We have seen it before. Hopefully we already have some of the pieces we need.
Nice job, Tom.
Coming back to reality (Koolaidville) ((right up there with Margaritaville)) after a tough season is refreshing. I have been far too cynical lately. A great draft, Bruce Carter stepping up, and a couple of great FA signings, can have this team is on it’s way back to the playoffs.
We have the goal of winning Super Bowls. If you don't have that, find the door.
Jason Garrett
pass the Kool aide
Cause I’m feeling the same as every one else on here. I once posted that I was a troll.( Got it confused with lurking) These playoff gms r hard to watch with our Boys not in it. If Tebow can get it done then surely we can with Tony right? Keep building that oline and shore up the defense and we’re there!
by letsgtld on Jan 14, 2012 12:48 PM CST via mobile reply actions
Here's my Kool-Aid!
In the 17 seasons from 1966-1982, the Cowboys went at least to the conference championship game 14 times. In the 16 seasons from 1996-2011, the Cowboys have won 2 wild card games.
I remember shaving that
fun night
Pessimists say the cup is half-empty, while optimists say it's half-full. Well, the real question is, is it a good beer? Realist Larry, 2011
by Realist Larry on Jan 15, 2012 12:08 AM CST up reply actions
Only from a "Realist". Funny stuff.
"Hope is not a strategy" Billy Beane
"There is no cause for concern" Jerry Jones
ah, if only that was "real"
Pessimists say the cup is half-empty, while optimists say it's half-full. Well, the real question is, is it a good beer? Realist Larry, 2011
by Realist Larry on Jan 15, 2012 3:15 PM CST up reply actions
that's a huge upgrade on kool-aid 1.0
he’s easier to shave, but not as much fun in the sack.
by Lajitas Lava on Jan 16, 2012 7:42 AM CST up reply actions
Thank you FS
Now every time I drink my KOOL-AID I’m going to remember what KOOL-AID really looks like but I’m so old I forget what it taste like… could you send her to my house so I can refresh my memory… “cough” …
RexP
Easy to be optimistic
During the off-season, seems to be modus operandi with the Cowboys for many years now. Don’t get me wrong, I am a fan, but I am a realist and despite whatever this article says this team still needs an infusion of talent on the defensive side of the ball and on special teams (excluding the kicking game) – all of this also assumes with think the current coaching staff will rise to the challenge next year and for me that is still a big if, sorry just not convinced that part of the defensive problem was not Ryan himself but I am willing to give him a pass this year as I blame Jones more than anything for not addressing the defensive liabilities at the end of 2010. I’m hoping for a good draft and free agency but will temper any excitement until I see some talented players arrive in camp that would warrant it.
Marco you will be unpopular on this site. Being blind will endear you to their heart though.
Just ask Bigham.
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 3:26 PM CST up reply actions
Optimism is one thing
Blinders, as you point out, are another. Like most here I’m tired of seeing this team failing to improve year after year and I’m also tired of all the talk about improvement when ultimately results paint a different picture. I am a Romo believer and have reasons to be optimistic on the offensive side of the ball, given the young line, solid receiving core and hopefully solid RB game as well. Same can’t be said for the rest of the team so we’ll see over the course of the summer what Jerry does this time around. My hope is that the first thing he does is remove his blinders as well. time will tell.
Self-congratulatory smugness
Seems to be favored in certain circles as well.
At the end of the day, isn’t it OK to root or cheer in any manner you want? Understanding that if you choose to in a condescending, snarky manner it may provoke a response.
'I have wasted Time and Time doth waste me'
Jerry Jones as Richard II - Act 5, Scene 5
Really?
There’s “rampant and disproportionate optimism” about the Cowboys? The team that was ransacked by injuries yet still one win away from the division crown? Really? That team’s fans have unreasonable optimism? I don’t see how fans aren’t happy about this team. Week One, they were missing their three starting DBs on the road…lost by a Field Goal on a last minute collapse, and inability to score in the second half. Week Four Against the Lions, again failure to score in the second half doomed them along with some boneheaded play calling and play from Romo. They were also missing Miles Austin and Mike Jenkins. They didn’t establish a running game until the game against the Rams, and guys like Bryant, Austin, and Jenkins took turns being injured all year. That and they lost a few games on some crappy missed field goals.
Which isn’t to say that they don’t need to improve, they do. The question is just how much do they need to improve. Two wins? Re-signing Robinson, plugging in Carter over Brooking/Bradie, fixing the interior line, adding a cornerback that doesn’t get burned twice a game, and one of adding a pass rusher or upgrading over Elam…all of those things are possible. Combine that with a full season of Murray and a healthy Austin, Bryant, and Robinson add in Jason Witten and that might just be the best receiving corps in all of football; add in a full year of Sean Lee at full strength, hopefully full health from Ware, and the possible improvements of the afore mentioned Lee, Murray, Tyron Smith, Costa, Free (at right tackle), Dez, and some other unknowns? I’m thinking they have a great shot at building a team that can do some damage in 2012.
And in week 16 with all the starting secondary playing they were still missing 3 starters.
LOL , too easy.
Gmen began the season with three starters on ir. They beat the hell out of Dallas and won their first playoff game.
Austin is never healthy for a full season. As of yet Murray hasn’t proved he can last a season.
Costa sucks.
Dallas had a very weak schedule this year.
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 4:15 PM CST up reply actions
I will be glad though when they overcome Jerry and win inspite of him.
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 4:16 PM CST up reply actions
I'm too easy?
You didn’t pay attention to Murray’s OU career where he was the school’s leader in all purpose yards. Besides, Murray’s a rookie…rookies don’t prove anything. Austin’s only been a starter since 2009 so big deal he had some injuries this year. Oh yeah he played 16 games in 2009 and 2010…so he was healthy all year. You’re getting stupider.
Just because Austin played didn't mean he was healthy.
I payed close attention to Murray’s career. He didn;t make it through the season unscathed. So is he the long term answer ? We hope but you don’t know.
Yea you’re making excuses about the Jets game. That’s expected from you. That’s your m.o.
Stupider ? LMAO….no wonder you’re going to be a lawyer
EZ. Easy. It ain’t hard.
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 8:31 PM CST up reply actions
Funny how you don't mention the Gmen's starters on ir.
Yet you will excuse the Dallas for missing some starters.
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 8:35 PM CST up reply actions
Stupider
I like that one… I’ll have to use that one at work…
by Tyrone Jenkins on Jan 14, 2012 10:20 PM CST up reply actions
Not excusing it or acting like the Giants didn't hit injuries either.
i’m simply stating facts. You’re acting like the team lost 17 games despite only playing 16, I’m simply stating that this team was basically four plays away from being 12-4.
I’m not saying that they’re a 12-4 team by any means I’m simply stating that they’re a hell of a lot better than you’re willing to give them credit for and slightly better than the 8-8 record suggests. Teams play above, and below, their record all the time. Don’t give me this Bill Parcells TFAG talk, 16 games is an extremely small sample size and weird things happen. Some teams have bad luck and some have good luck. Pretty much any team that’s won a Super Bowl in the past five years hit some good luck somewhere along the ways. The Packers hit some luck by Desean Jackson ripping a punt return through the Giants causing the Giants to lose and the Packers to be able to squeak in on the last game of the season. The Saints hit Favre’s typical Favre against the Vikings and some other questionable calls. The Steelers got a crappy kick off on their last drive of the game against Zona, the Giants had well…the 2007 post season and hit every break imaginable, the Colts managed to play a team QBed by Rex Grossman and had to have Polian change the rules so they can beat the Pats. Luck plays a factor in football, you’re kidding yourself if you think this isn’t true.
For next season? Well they finished 8-8 this year, they’re not really worse than that…if they some how manage to get two more wins, like they added two wins this year, they’re in the playoffs. That’s what matters right? Gotta get to the playoffs and get something established before making a big run, right?
More stupid just hits the ear wrong...
At any rate you’re getting worse. You also PAID close attention, see you’re guilty of it too, to Murray’s career. I’m not making excuses, I’m simply stating the truth, this team was lost a lot of close games that could have gone either way. That’s the way it goes. If you’re acting like this team is further away from the Super Bowl than the Vikings, they’re closer than you’re willing to let on. Yes they need to improve, but there’s no reason to think that they can’t make said improvements.
to be truthful though
2010 was Austin only “fully Healthy” year i think as in 2009 he was injured to start the year (not positive on that though)
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
Now, if somebody doesn’t agree with that, that’s cool. I also don’t agree with the fact that I don’t have $10 million in my bank account. But the fact that I don’t agree with it doesn’t make it any less true.
by One.Cool.Customer on Dec 23, 2010 12:00 AM PST
by I am Ironman!!! on Jan 14, 2012 8:34 PM CST up reply actions
He was only 4th in DYAR in 2009.
He played all 16 games in both seasons, that’s healthy enough for me. Everyone has a few bumps and bruises along the way. To say that Austin can’t stay healthy is a grotesquely misguided statement. He’s started all 16 games twice and racked up a thousand yards receiving in both years. People are acting like he’s Mark Prior or something.
well I did say I wasn't sure
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
Now, if somebody doesn’t agree with that, that’s cool. I also don’t agree with the fact that I don’t have $10 million in my bank account. But the fact that I don’t agree with it doesn’t make it any less true.
by One.Cool.Customer on Dec 23, 2010 12:00 AM PST
by I am Ironman!!! on Jan 15, 2012 7:20 AM CST up reply actions
Oh I'm not saying he's Cal Ripken either...
But I think it’s easy to see a scenario where Austin provides double the value he did in 2011. That can translate into more wins and hence a playoff spot. Imagine a healthy (or at least a 85-90%) Austin in the second half against New England or Detroit? Imagine a Dez Bryant that can run in the second half against the Jets? Injuries happen, but when they happen to such key players of teams they have to be taken into account.
Cowboys are closer to be being legitimate SB contenders than most think
We are only a really good off season away in terms of FA and draft acquisitions. In todays NFL, you can go from bad to good really fast and we only have to go from average to good.
Don’t forget, we were only a few plays away from winning 10-11 games this season
In Romo we Trust
But we didn't make the plays.
Jerry is the end all in Dallas.
by football mensa on Jan 14, 2012 8:33 PM CST up reply actions
No one's saying they did...
He’s simply saying that they lost a lot of close games. If they can make some fixes they can improve themselves so that they can make those plays. It’s not like they got blown out every loss, or they were miles away from competing against good teams.
and only a few plays from only winning 4-5 games this past season. Funny how that works
Lifelong Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
My Beer Blog: http://tiltingsuds.wordpress.com/
I would love to show you the finer points to a muay thai clinch whipped knee to the face seanrude
by matt575 on Nov 22, 2011 3:09 AM EST
Yeah, 2010 was an odd season in several respects.
One of those huge plays had the team losing it’s most valuable players. This year’s plays involved boneheaded playcalling from an inexperienced head coach and some stupid play from a QB under pressure with out a running game to kill the clock. Gotta fix those things.
This is your fantasy Tom so dream on.
But the reality is the team has made only 1 significant upgrade (secondary coach; how quickly we forget that Hudson Houck was a LEGEND as an O-line coach) and unless there are more staff changes coming then all improvement will come from personnel upgrades. As RR wrote weeks ago that will take 3-4 years IF THE DRAFTS ARE SUCCESSFUL. As of today, it looks like Jerry will be content to improve the current roster through training etc. with no change from the “process”. In other words, this is an 8-8 non-playoff team. And from a REALISTIC fan’s POV, the best thing that can happen is that Stephen fast tracks to GM. Remember, Hope is NOT a strategy. And I don’t see Jerry making changes to a very mediocre team.
"Hope is not a strategy" Billy Beane
"There is no cause for concern" Jerry Jones
What?
They’re 8-8 and it will take 3-4 good drafts to add two wins to make them 10-6 and hence a playoff team and automatic Super Bowl contender? Please. You’re quoting Billy Beane, the guy that basically brought quantitative analysis to a big league front office first, and you’re unwilling to make a similar analysis about your own team? FFS, if you’re going to quote people at least quote those who agree with your neanderthal way of evaluating teams.
The 3-4 years to fill all current needs comes from
a post by RR. Oh, and thanks for telling me who Billy Beane is otherwise I wouldn’t have known. His quote is self-explanatory. But maybe you need it explained. And my neanderthal way of evaluating the Cowboys is based on what they have or have not achieved last year and what changes they have made to-date in order to improve. Not complicated. And not wishful thinking either. Those neanderthals were pretty smart.
"Hope is not a strategy" Billy Beane
"There is no cause for concern" Jerry Jones
So you evaluate the team that way...and you still think it'll take 3-4 good drafts?
That’s at least ten new good players. I guess some will be on the decline by then too, but geez. This team wasn’t THAT far away, besides it’s the NFL. The cap is designed to make every team 8-8, no one team is that much worse than any other team. If you have a good QB in place you’re always close, that’s the way it is. RR likes to rouse some rabble from time to time, and there was a wide range of emotion about this team after the season ended. Basically, the dumbest part of your brain does most of the thinking right after a heartbreaking moment for your team. Yankee fans were ready to rake Cashman over the coals a few days ago over trading Montero for Pineda, and I’m sure later in the week they’ll come to and realize that it was a pretty good trade for the team. Look, were all guilty of being too emotional about the team, anyone who says that they’re not is either lying, severely lacking in self awareness, or not really a fan. The writers of this site included, no matter how smart they are they all love this team and their love for this team clouds their judgement at times, they’re men not machines. We all let the dumb parts of our brains (myself included) take over and do the thinking for the smart part of our brains from time to time. I honestly think that’s where the 3-4 good drafts comment came from. I mean honestly, if Carter develops, Free improves at RT (which all signs say that he should), they bring back Laurent, sign Finnegan, and crush this year’s draft (like DeCastro, someone that starts on the DL, and a Center to take over later) do you really think they’re anymore than two players away from being a Super Bowl contender again?
I think they’re a good draft and a couple of good (not necessarily big) free agent signings away from winning the NFC East. Probably another good draft class on top of that and a couple of more good signings away from having a team that contends for the Super Bowl.
And I wasn’t trying to tell you who Billy Beane is, I was stating that for someone who respects the opinion of someone like Beane to have such an jurassic way of evaluating football and the NFL in particular is odd. It’d be like someone who thinks Darwin is the man, but doesn’t believe in evolution. Every team in the NFL has holes, except the Patriots yesterday, the Cowboys don’t need to fill all of them in order to field a SB winning team, they just need to fix the OL, find another pass rusher and another corner and they’re pretty much good. That’ll take 3-4 good drafts?
First of all, I never said I subscribed to Mr. Beane ENTIRE GM philosophy.
But I certainly do agree with the quote I use for a signature. It’s funny but also as serious as a heart attack. Some people however, those that prefer to change as little as possible to a mediocre franchise, seem to believe that hope is a strategy. And that’s too bad for us fans. Because this franchise needs a lot of help, IMO.
If we are keeping JG he needs a legit OC, not an “Oh by the way… OC”. That should be the most important priority for this team. Special teams needs a new coach. DeCamillis has had his chance. The ST were horrible last year.
Ryan needs his choice for a D-line coach. The D-line completely underachieved last year. No pressure from the front. Documented over and over by OCC, I think. That is just staff. But if we are motivated by something other than hope, then those changes can be made today. Moreover, part of the problem with personnel is that the current crop is not being properly motivated or prepared. In the last game vs. the Giants one commentator blurted out that the G-men were playing at a completely different speed than Dallas. That’s coaching’s job. And unless they are changed the new crop of players will be subject to the same “process” which so far is not being successful.
Players. 3 new starting O-linemen. 1 new FB. (injury). 2-3 new D-linemen. 2 new safeties. 2 new corners. Newman’s done. And another who can start. Now these are starters. And yes, I think 3-4 years is about right. And by then it’s a new QB and possibly RB.
"Hope is not a strategy" Billy Beane
"There is no cause for concern" Jerry Jones
Three new starting OLmen?
One of Koiser and Lumpy would be serviceable. One new one like DeCastro would be enough. You can have some weaker players on the OL…not everyone on the team can be a pro-bowler. 2-3 new DLmen? That’s an entire new defensive line two new safeties? What? Teams have had far worse secondaries than Dallas and done okay. Two new corners? Again what?
Yes, if you want to get rid of all the average players on the team and replace them with elite talents it’d take 3-4 great drafts. However that never happens in today’s NFL. Look at teams like the Saints, Patriots, Packers, Giants, 49ers, and Ravens. They mediocre to average players starting…EVERY Super Bowl winning team has had it’s fair share of mediocrity and average. At least have opinions that are based in reality.
Something like adding Finnegan, DeCastro, and a pass rusher on defense would probably add about two wins combined with the changes that they’ll make on the current team. Carter over Bradie/Brooking, Free back to RT, another year of development for the Tyronasaurus at LT, Dez in the third year, a full year with Robinson as a main threat, a (hopefully) healthy receiving corps, and a full year of Murray along with the additions I mentioned should be enough to get them in the playoffs and able to make a run at something special if everything’s clicking. The best team doesn’t always win the Super Bowl and a lot of times weaker teams are able to make a run if everything clicks right and they get favorable match ups.
Houck WAS a legend
but the game moved on. The interchangable technique that he still taught is not what line play is today. Dlinemen have mastered overcoming those techniques and the modern OL play has evolved and until technique improves on our line we will not be thee team owboy fans demand.
Hell and Horse Manure.....HIT SOMEONE
by sexililkitti on Jan 15, 2012 7:31 PM CST up reply actions
Bottom's up!
Each week, play whoever is standing across the field from you, whenever and wherever. If you match up well, exploit it and win. If you don’t, then get very crafty in your game play and try to "steal" a win anyway. Repeat process until no more games remain, and confetti rains down from a retractable roof and Roger Goodell is handing out hardware. - hookerhome
in aeternum amicus meus vivit sua musica non morietur
A Friend of mine lives forever, his music will never die.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8J1FHzJruAg
RIP Chuck Shuldiner - Father of Death Metal
I saw recently
That Dallas can get to about 45the million under the cap this offseason. With that kind of money available could dallas sign Carl Nicks and Mario Williams? Would Williams be better that Spencer at SOLB? Or could dallas sign Williams to play DE and Spencer to stay at OLB? Lots of possibilities.
by Cowick22 on Jan 14, 2012 8:13 PM CST via mobile reply actions
I tried to find an ugly Cowboys Cheerleader.
But failed miserably.
Formerly Pineywoods - different name, same cockeyed view of the world.
Jason Garrett - Lord of Order
Rob Ryan - Lord of Chaos
Thanks for a good warming read...
on a cold cold day here in Toronto, Canada…
wish they can get a good guard w 1st round and a good free agent OL to complete the perfect protection for Romo…
May The Force Be With the 'Boys! Amen!
a big 2 thumbs up to u Tom err piney err nevermind
that cheerleading pic automatically gets u a rec.. fs & nick i salute both of u as well, does anybody know the names of those gals?
"Some people wear Superman pajamas, Superman wears Chuck Norris pajamas. But Chuck Norris wears Sean Lee pajamas. That is all." --sirjason22
"I'm gonna punch you in the ovary, that's what I'm gonna do. A straight shot. Right to the babymaker." --Ron Burgundy
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