My quick take on the Dallas Cowboys win over the Houston Texans, 23-22.
The Cowboys starting offensive line was freakin’ dominant. Marion Barber had plays where the whole side of the field was clear of Texans jerseys. Tony Romo could have sent a text to Jessica in the pocket and then thrown the ball. The line is massive and they are good. If they play like that this year, we’ll score a ton of points. Tony Romo looked to be in good form and shredded the Texans defense. But boy, that INT at the goal line was a terrible decision and really changed the momentum of the game. My guess is they don’t call that play in that situation in the regular season. MB3 was a beast. Patrick Crayton picked up his game. Nice job by the #2 WR. The first team defense had one bad drive against them but otherwise was pretty solid. They were put into some bad positions by special teams and held the Texans to FG’s. Not bad. Brad Johnson looked good, I'm getting more comfortable with him as the primary backup. Sam Hurd finally contributed in a meaningful way this preseason. Mike Jefferson helped himself. Marcus Spears is a different player this year. Now for the bad:Turnovers killed us. Romo, Isaiah Stanback and Felix Jones all gave the ball away. Stanback looked great on kickoff returns but fumbled the ball and then injured his shoulder. Felix Jones had a tough night, the Cowboys used him as a more conventional back and it didn’t work well on this evening. Then he fumbled the ball near the redzone. If it wasn’t for these mistakes, the game probably would have been a blowout. Special teams also contributed to much of the Texans success in the game. Penalties were OK for most of the game, but so far in this preseason - special teams, penalties and now turnovers have hurt the Cowboys.
Bruce Read needs to figure things out on special teams quickly. Bobby Carpenter is not taking advantage of his opportunity. He has been very disappointing the last two preseason games. Depending on Isaiah Stanback’s injury, there could be a new WR at practice very soon. Joe Horn, is your cell on? I kid – sort of. Your thoughts on the game are welcome as always. Box score.