The Twitterverse is a wonderful place, once you get past the spam. Really, all of social media as a whole is reinventing the way people share information. You can keep track of all sorts of folks associated with your favorite pasttime; from athletes to beat writers to analysts. Sure, some people are too social, and you'll get the occasional faux pas or release of too much information, but the merits of the medium are obvious.
While watching the BCS Championship game last night, I came across a string of tweets that originated during the Wild Card games that took place on Sunday. To say that it piqued my interest would be an understatement.
If you aren't familiar with Bryan Broaddus, (@BryanBroaddus) as a Cowboys fan you should be. He writes for ESPN Dallas and is a former NFL Scout. He provides some of the best material that site has to offer and honestly, shouldn't be judged by his contemporaries. Anyway, Broaddus had an interesting exchange with @DCBlueStar that I had to follow up on to make sure my aging eyes weren't deceiving me.
BloggingTheBoysBlogging The Boys@BryanBroaddus Just want to confirm I'm twear-hustling correctly... team official says team considering moving Ratliff to DE?
@BryanBroaddus
Bryan Broaddus@BloggingTheBoys I have talked to several sources that said it is something that they would be talking about. Not done at all. Talking about
FavoriteRetweet
Now that's a big change from the stance the team has taken pretty much every off season since Jay Ratliff was put as the nose tackle position. Again, Broaddus simply is saying there will be conversation, but I'm sure this will put some on the defensive but also please several others to no end. Get it? Defensive? End? I'm here all week.
Follow the jump for more tweet beat.
Another off season fan favorite for Cowboys followers are the draft musings of one Wes Bunting (@WesBunting), of the National Football Post. As last night's championship game went on, Wes provided his take on which players did what to their draft stock. Obviously one can't make a decision based on one game, but the performance of a prospect on the college game's biggest stage does lend some credence to how they will do with the higher stakes of professional football.
Bunting felt that Alabama offensive linemen, C William Vlachos and OG Alfred McCullough are both fringe NFL prospects at best.
Here's a collection of tweets from Bunting in regards to the numerous defensive prospects that took the field in New Orleans last night.
#Alabama ILB Donta Hightower lacks the kind of plus instincts to make up for his first step consistently to be a big time NFL LB #nfldraft
— Wesley Bunting (@WesBunting) January 10, 2012
Still don't think there has been a completion against #LSU CB Morris Claiborne tonight...one of few elite prospects in this years draft
— Wesley Bunting (@WesBunting) January 10, 2012
Love the short area explosion from #Alabama OLB Courtney Upshaw.... Good first step and combo of power ...safe first round pick
— Wesley Bunting (@WesBunting) January 10, 2012
Looking at the girth of #Alabama OLB Courtney Upshaw, you don't expect him to close so quick & play with the "plus" motor he does #NFLDRAFT
— Wesley Bunting (@WesBunting) January 10, 2012
After watching tape today/ early in this game #Alabama CB Dre Kirkpatrick is the best tackling corner in the nation... Top 10 pick #nfldraft
— Wesley Bunting (@WesBunting) January 10, 2012
Really impressed after first quarter with #Alabama SS Mark Barron, physical striker, improved balance with footwork, NFL starter #nfldraft
— Wesley Bunting (@WesBunting) January 10, 2012
We had a good comments section debate in one of my posts from last week about the strategy of taking Stanford's David DeCastro with the #14 pick. For those that think that great OG's can be found in the second round or later, your stance is buoyed by this Bunting tweet:
@WesBunting
Wesley Bunting Best Guard class in years and would be better with #Alabama LG Chance Warmack, power bender who can dominate inline... Top 50 pick #nfldraft
FavoriteRetweet
Well, you know where I'm going with this conversation, don't you? Obviously things will change as the combine comes and goes, but on a team devoid of much defensive talent, I certainly am leaning towards wanted a defensive prospect in the first round and solidifying the offensive line if a prospect is available later.
Everyone likes to point to the hope Dallas fields an offensive line like the early '90s and forgets that Dallas had a defensive line rotation that was the envy of the league as well. I do believe that offense is more important than defense, and I love watching the Saints with their elite line and the mesmerizing display of dominance... wait, I'm leaning the other direction again. Help me out here folks, what do you think?
And if you aren't currently, don't forget to follow us on Twitter @BloggingTheBoys, hopefully you enjoy what I brought to the table over the past season. We moved from just story links to plenty of interaction. In-game analysis, Q&A sessions and my general take on any and everything Cowboys. Join the fun.
3 recs | 261 comments
wow
moving Ratliff is a highly debated topic
my stance is that moving him only benefits his talent and skill set, plus extends his career
but who replaces him on the nose? Brent? I love Brent but I don’t think he is a starter there yet
Lissemore? I love Lissemore but I like him better as a five technique
draft pick? most likely scenario I guess with the rookie rotating with Brent, problem is there are only a few real good NT prospects
free agent? Arybu Franklin is the only legit NT out there, the Saints love stacking DL talent but may not bring him back
I am definitely open to this idea and frankly wish they did it earlier and drafted a good NT
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
you'd have to bring someone in
through free agency. Not sure who else is out there.
CMDR - January 10, 2012
I havent really looked
all I know is Cliff Avril and Aryubu Franklin are FA’s, Antonio Garay is too but we wont sign him
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Sign Avril if we can't get Campbell and Mario is too expensive.
Love the idea of switching Rat. Thought they should have done it last year.
Go BPA at #14, if it’s DeCastro take him. He’s the best prospect at guard in years.
Did a quick survey of 15 Mock Drafts posted over last 2 days.
Only 6 had DeCastro available at #14. Of the 6 only 1 has the Boys taking him at #14.
6 had Ariz taking him at # 13,
2 had him going to Miami at #9 and
1 had him drafted by the Chiefs at #11
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
By the way I loved what Upshaw did last night and wouldn't mind taking him if DeCastro is gone,
but we should target someone like Warmack or Zeitler in the second.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
I am doing a podcast thing with KD tomorrow
he is gonna release it later in the week, Thurs or Fri
I am going to talk about Upshaw, he really impressed me last night, in a big game, which Spencer doesn’t do, show up in big games
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Chia, I thought the knock on him was that he was too slow.
Well if that’s slow I’d hate to think what fast is. I think he vaulted himself into the top 15 with that performance last night.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
thats what im saying
he looked quick to me
I think he looks slow sometimes because he is so big, looks like a tank
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
You see some of those modern tanks the military deploys.
He plays like a Leclerc MBT, the fastest tank in the world.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
lol no cant say I have
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
LOL. You're using a FRENCH tank as your example?
fs65 - January 10, 2012
It's the fastest and Upshaw is a tank.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
Makes it an even faster to retreat for the frenchies during war time
StrosSouth - January 10, 2012
Try to forget it's French although I see the irony and share your sentiments about those who have never won a war.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
No I get it. Its just kind of funny to me that the French are making
something like that since they just throw up their arms and surrender at the first sign of war.
StrosSouth - January 10, 2012
hahahah too many lovers and wine in france ... lol
IRONRAVEN - January 10, 2012
Yeah, the only things they are really good at are food, win, and nuclear power plants. LOL
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
wine
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
Does the French kiss count? lol
StrosSouth - January 10, 2012
Abrams is faster
friend of mine had one doing 75MPH last year at Ft Irwin. The early models could top 100
burmafrd1944 - January 10, 2012
French tanks, like Italian tanks, have only one gear.
And it’s labeled “R” for retreat.
One.Cool.Customer - January 11, 2012
Lol
Rena - January 11, 2012
LMAO
StrosSouth - January 11, 2012
The combine will tell a lot.
He definitely looked quick last night, just not fast.
Dynamicduo - January 10, 2012 via mobile
He was on Jefferson really quick last night. I was totally impressed.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
I wouldn't be upset to get him in the draft.
There are several players I would like to get, any of them would make me happy.
Rena - January 11, 2012
watching the Lions DL and Giants DL it made me envious
idk if Avril is a stand up pass rusher, I doubt we go after him
highly doubt it
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Dude...
That’s an admirable waste of time. The playoffs aren’t even over, and we haven’t even seen who’s INVITED to the combine. So mock drafts now are about as close to useless as you can get.
Omar Little - January 12, 2012
well looky here...
Looks like someone got the memo. I’ve only been saying this for over a year now. Not so crazy now am I. Rat is a good player, but he has fell off the last two years whether people want to believe it or not. We just need that monster in the middle like Poe.
Boyzfan94 - January 10, 2012 via mobile
+ a billion
I love the idea of Poe @ NT. It’s only about time we did so since the conversion to the 3-4 defense. Biggest person I remember manning the position was about 310-318. I swear if you’re going to shrink the middle of the line from 2 DTs to one NT, that NT should be pretty huge. Then looking around, all the successful teams with 3-4s had huge but talented NTs. I’ve been waiting for this day since the switch. I can’t wait to see what Rat and Ware will do on the same side or even Rat and Spencer for that matter with a huge push from the middle for once. I believe Josh-Brent is only around 320 or so.
CodeNamedG - January 10, 2012
Josh Brent is a huge 320
that guy is big
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Is he as powerful?
As powerful as he is huge…? I’m thinking more along the lines of someone around 350 like Poe because it’ll be easier to take on THREE offensive blockers because of his power and size. Of course on the regular it’d be 2 but they wouldn’t give him as much of a problem in the run & pass defense as Rat. A third would sometime would have to chip in possibly and with that offensive requirement= our pass rush & coverage would soar. IMO…
CodeNamedG - January 10, 2012
they say Brent is one of the strongest players on the team
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
I like Brent,
But… I’d like to have him compete with another NT and see who prevails. Bring in a draft pick like Poe or someone the like and see what happens in Training Camp. It comes down to strength, technique and ability. Brent would have experience and most likely technique a little but someone like Poe would have size and possibly strength. Besides it’d only be smart to have more than one anyway right? Look at the Patriots and such teams. They had Vince Wilfork/Gerard Warren and still drafted Ron Brace.
CodeNamedG - January 10, 2012
they used to say that about
Mcquistan
Olshansky
and more recently (gasp) Costa
TheCowboyWay - January 10, 2012
He doesn't keep his pad level down
if he doesn’t fix that he won’t be on this team for much longer.
Lissyyyyy - January 10, 2012
he can still have a roataion with Brent and Lissemore
lostar2009 - January 10, 2012 via mobile
Poe anyone?
mho - January 10, 2012 via iPhone app
LOL.. I thought you said poi
StrosSouth - January 10, 2012
depends if they get another bookend like Calais it may be a great move
to where they are taking up doubles on the edges and Brent fights single-head up blocking in the middle
or they can go get a plugger in Free agency that will eat up the space
or they may think about moving Carter around and get another ILB that can shed blockers like water weight at Point of Contact
starbury_to_s-jaxci2000 - January 10, 2012
the jets DT. the somoan, Simonay Pihuoa or however its pronounced would be a great nose to have with ratliff on the edge
starbury_to_s-jaxci2000 - January 10, 2012
DL keepers
Spears, undervalued player imo, not a pass rusher but a solid player
Hatcher, our best five tech and our best pass rusher on the DL
Ratliff, duh thats obvious
Lissemore, disruptive five tech who can play the nose too
Brent, player on the rise imo, still learning the position
thats it, Coleman has to go
if we can replace Coleman with a disruptive five tech, I would love our DL
we would have a nice rotation
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
What do you do with Geathers?
Final Frame - January 10, 2012
bring him in for camp, future contracts are cheap
he isn’t guaranteed a roster spot unless he improves and looks better
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Rat's an all pro NT, why move him?
If they find a wide body run stopper I’d have no problem, but they don’t. Seems as if they’re trying to plug one hole by creating another.
DIRE WOLF - January 10, 2012
thats the argument here
but I will say this
I love Rat at NT, but his pass rushing skills make sense at DE
and he is a former All Pro NT, those days are numbered
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
It means a rookie or a FA has to be brought in to play NT IMO.
No one I’ve seen on the team now can get job done. Maybe they think Brent is ready, if so go for it.
DIRE WOLF - January 10, 2012
I like Brent a lot
I just don’t know if he is starter material and i really like the kid
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
That's the way I see it.
DIRE WOLF - January 10, 2012
I think they were moving that way during the season
What stopped it was however Brent got hurt for the last 5-6 games.
Final Frame - January 10, 2012
Not
To sure about chigbo in his talent but his brute strength is off the charts. He could be a steal in the 6th round and would easily handle a double team and could be a very good player if coached up. And isn’t there a 2nd rounder people are talking about for nt in the draft his year. What about that guy from the dolphins.
Sado44 - January 10, 2012 via mobile
i think it extends his career
him taking less punishment and being able to shed weight to keep his speed and focus more on pass rushing should only benefit him in the long run
starbury_to_s-jaxci2000 - January 10, 2012
Rat had a great year at NT this year, so I don't know why people like to say he's a shadow of his former self
The argument has been made that Ratliff’s agility is what makes him a successful nose tackle at his size against guards and centers, but that his particular skill set won’t work as well against more agile tackles were he to play end in a 3-4.
I think it has some merit to it, but take it as you will.
Admiral Dallas - January 10, 2012
I think he does more work as a DT in the nickel than as a NT in the 3-4
They can still use him as that role when they go to that look. But in the base defense, they need a bigger body in the middle.
Baked Potato Soup - January 10, 2012
I'd consider it...
moving ratliff to DE plus getting a huge DT. I don’t know if Lissemore or Brent is the answer. But I’d give them a look. I’d love to get a big body, run stopper, who can move the pocket and rush the passer. That guy might not be on our team right now.
Tuna Helper - January 10, 2012
Dear God,
Please let this happen, Amen.
IronCowboy - January 10, 2012
You mean dear Tebow?
DIRE WOLF - January 10, 2012
haha
yehti - January 10, 2012 via mobile
Um, Tebow worships God...he is not God!!! Nuf said!!!
mho - January 10, 2012 via iPhone app
He can put in the word for us.....
“Dear Tebow, please use your connection with 6 pound 8 ounce, tiny baby Jesus to pray for the Dallas Cowboys to move Ratliff to DE.”
fs65 - January 10, 2012
Don't be too sure
DIRE WOLF - January 10, 2012
Makes sense to move Rat off the nose
He is super quick and will be very disruptive as a 5 technique, especially with him on the same side as Ware. There are numerous holes in the D and we probably won’t be able to fill them all in one off season but if they can get a nose or another D-Lineman in FA it will help with the draft. Would love to get one of the top corners, maybe one will slide down to us
Nardfather - January 10, 2012
A least they know there is a BIG problem with the pass rush and are looking for solutions.
DIRE WOLF - January 10, 2012
Ratliff is a Phillips DT, but a Ryan DE
CMDR - January 10, 2012
I'm biased
But I’m really hoping the run on QBs and a better-than-normal OL class will have Dre Kirkpatrick falling to us. Him opposite Mike Jenkins would be night and day from what we saw this year.
TexaninNYC - January 10, 2012
I'm for drafting him if he's there, but rookie CBs have problems the 1st year.
DIRE WOLF - January 10, 2012
and the Cowboys' DBs have problems every year
I’d spend first 3 picks on the secondary at minimum, unless there is a big free agent grab. This team is going nowhere without drastically improved secondary.
You’d be amazed how much better our pass rush would look if they had an extra beat to get to the QB.
CMDR - January 10, 2012
and vise-versa
DIRE WOLF - January 10, 2012
idk it goes both ways
Eli had way too much time throwing the ball, Revis and Deion couldn’t cover for that long
secondary is a major problem, but so is this pass rush
it was non existent down the stretch
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Yup
Both need to upgraded. It’s probably more critical than focusing on the OL. At least the OL will have the benefit of the young linemen having a full year of conditioning.
staubachfan - January 10, 2012
I didn't say instantly.
But Jenkins is relatively young, and a good secondary is a nice thing to rebuild around.
TexaninNYC - January 10, 2012
Jenkins is our best corner and is a good cover CB
add a good corner to the other side and things look a lot better
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
I agree
Jenkins and Kirkpatrick would be awesome together
I just dont see Kirkpatrick falling to us at 14
size, tackles and has ball skills
rare skill set that will be coveted in the top 10
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Let me have my dreams, Chia.
TexaninNYC - January 10, 2012
I just want an awesome CB again
at least we will be adding one CB to the roster to replace Newman
I just hope that player is somebody young fast and good
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Thank God this draft has plenty of corners.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
fortunately yes
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Just sayin
If we draft a corner in the first rd, he better not be the second coming of an inconsistent, lack of instincts, often injured Terence Newman. I’d consider it a failure.
Unless we get Kirkpatrick, I’d rather invest the first rd pick in DeCastro, Ingram, or Upshaw.
I want a stud with our first 2 or 3 picks; we can’t afford to play the guessing game.
Also, the DBs we draft and or sign via free agency better be able to make plays on the ball and not just occassionally make a blind squiril pass knock down.
Rohpuri - January 10, 2012 via mobile
Agree, I think one of them will be there, most likely Upshaw or Ingram.
DeCastro and Dre will probably be gone.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
Well we agree. Kirkpatrick, Upshaw, Ingram, and DeCastro are all guys I would accept us drafting.
I doubt that list grows too much but I suppose guys like Perry, Coples, and Still could work their way on to that list if they have great combines.
Creasy729 - January 10, 2012
Yep, there are a few other acceptable players, but one of the 4 should be there at #14.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
thats my list too
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
I forgot to put Nick Perry on my list above
I’ve liked the idea of Dallas drafting him since he declared last week.
Rohpuri - January 10, 2012 via mobile
He's one of the other few I'd be happy with, but I think the Big Four have been identified.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
if he blows up the combine yes
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
How much would we have to give up to trade up to say 8-10 range to get him?
Nardfather - January 10, 2012
Well it depends
for each pick, before Comp picks are awarded, as they change the values of the later picks:
Pick #8- 14, 45(get back #’s 104,136)
Pick #9- 14, 81, 112(no other picks in return)
Pick #10- 14, 81, 175(No other picks in return)
Best bet is to target the 10th pick at the highest (IMO) if you are going to trade up
I am Ironman!!! - January 10, 2012
easy solution to a trade up would be next years number 1
Hopefully next years1 would be mid to late 20s This could get you to 6 or 7.. perfect scenario if LSU corner dropped. IMO this would be worth the risk
jp32 - January 10, 2012
Not only no, but hell no.
Don’t give up any picks, especially next years #1.
There are way to many good players that will fall to where we are to throw away next years #1 or any of our picks this year.
Rena - January 11, 2012
Don't like trade up scenarios at all.
We have to many needs to give up high draft picks.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
agree no trade ups
IRONRAVEN - January 10, 2012
It is funny you mention that Chia.
Draft tek latest mock has the Cowboys with Kirkpatrick at #14. First of the early mocks to have that, I think.
oldboysfan - January 10, 2012
nice
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Hate to tell u this Chia, But what do we do with Scandrick?? hes getting pay starter money.
salas88 - January 10, 2012
You need three starting caliber CBs in todays NFL
StrosSouth - January 10, 2012
Starter money for one year only. So, he has one year to prove himself.
If not, not much penalty against the cap.
TheCowboyFan - January 10, 2012
to cut him that is.
TheCowboyFan - January 10, 2012
people make it sound like Scandrick has an absurd contract
he really doesn’t
look at the way its broken down
if he hit the market he would have left
they are going to give him a chance to be the starter opposite Jenkins this camp, if he doesn’t take that opportunity, the Cowboys would be fine with him in the slot
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
I remember in 2008 and early 2009
Scandrick was actually playing better on the outside than Jenkins was.
I like Scandrick, I think he could play outside, but I think he’s best suited to be a nickle corner, which is still a starter when playing against passing teams.
Rohpuri - January 10, 2012 via mobile
I think he might be better on the outside
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
scandrick ws paid that to stay, he will be our 3rd corner....
we will be replacing newman with a draft pick or a FA.
IRONRAVEN - January 10, 2012
wasn't there some clown fanposting that
And that we should
And didn’t eight more clowns rec that fanpost?
dave33 - January 10, 2012
Where are the clowns?
Can I get a balloon animal?
GunsUp - January 10, 2012
It aint done yet, only talking.
DIRE WOLF - January 10, 2012
That does make it new, interesting and relevant, however.
Tom Ryle - January 10, 2012
I can show you quotes, straight out of Rob Ryan's mouthing stating exactly that:
That Jay Ratliff is going to play the NT position. He is not moving to DE.
And he didn’t get moved once this year.
This is quoted off of a beat writer’s twitter account, and hasn’t happened yet.
Clown? That’s absurd.
I’m guessing this could be a move they consider depending on free agency and the draft, and it goes no further than that.
jakezze01 - January 10, 2012
Please.
Clown because that poster was trying to tell us what and what not to discuss. Clearly, as Tom indicates above, the discussion is relevant.
Now whether they do it or not will be determined. But the wisdom or unwisdom of the move is a relevant topic of discussion.
dave33 - January 10, 2012
Please.
Clown clown clown.
Your condescending attitude is just as misplaced as the “clowns” rules of what/what not to discuss.
Admiral Dallas - January 10, 2012
i think this move would help mold draft strategy as well
I still think a CB in the first round, if its not a stretch would make the most sense, followed by a guard, which is deep with talent. use the infamous 3rd round for a NT
rockkicker - January 10, 2012
if they are serious about this
why not Dontari Poe in the first?
I am serious
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Some might say Poe is a reach at #14 Chia.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
of course they will
but if you think about it, if some guys are gone right and you add Poe to the DL with Hatcher and Ratliff
thats a real good DL
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
I think you're right, I just don't see them drafting him that high.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
they won't
its just a dark horse scenario
Phil Taylor went high, I think Poe should go high
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
I think he will but in the bottom 15 of the first.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
which is a good position for us to be in
Jerry could deal down, and still get someone we want…..but all talk for a long time
BigBad Joe - January 10, 2012
trading down I dont like
the Cowboys only hand out like 18-20 first round grades a year
if they trade down they will most likely not get a player with a first round grade, meaning they trade down again possibly, puke
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
The question is, do you think Poe is gets a first round grade?
My guess is that he goes at the bottom of the 1st or early 2nd.
staubachfan - January 10, 2012
I think the Cowboys will give him one
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Definitely, but probably in the 18-25 range.
I think they’ll opt for someone else and think #14 is too high to draft Poe.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
ive got a feeling Chia...
that if we draft poe dallas will trade back and take em w/x-tra pick inc .
IRONRAVEN - January 10, 2012
maybe
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
I think there is a lot better value in this draft to grab than Poe.
Poe may be a great player, but I don’t want to take him and miss out on a guy like Ingram.
Creasy729 - January 10, 2012
I dont want to pass on Ingram at all
I think Ingram is a godsend and would be a force on our defense for a very long time
#56-its already available for him
I would buy that jersey asap
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Foundation 1st...
Until something better presents itself at the first position in the line of defense, I believe NT is and has been the biggest problem. If Poe is the answer then we should start there. It starts in the trenches and from there the defense gets better. We need powerful space eater…
CodeNamedG - January 10, 2012
ha ha ha ha
One.Cool.Customer - January 10, 2012
It's so true.
Luke. - January 10, 2012
that @DCBlueStar person is a girl
and she is all over the place with Cowboys stuff
straight fan-a-holic
lol
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Yup she is and shes very good at giving people news.
salas88 - January 10, 2012
...
I hope in a good way… and thanks Jose! ;)
DCBlueStar - January 10, 2012
:D
welcome
KD Drummond - January 10, 2012
Make no mistake about it.
In round 1, we just need to draft BPA….as long as he’s a CB. :)
Pharm.D. - January 10, 2012
Not tooooo biased!
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
the Cowboys are the oxycontin of pharmaceuticals............they will make you feel good............only to kill you
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Disagree, I think Kirkpatrick is the only cb worth taking at 14th. Dennard is good but I think there will be better players available at 14th.
Example, decastro or Melvin Ingram.
Dynamicduo - January 10, 2012 via mobile
If we can't get Kirkpatrick in first rd
We could get our hands on Chase Minnifield, whose a really good corner from Virginia in the second rd.
Rohpuri - January 10, 2012 via mobile
2nd rd.
From some of the mock drafts going around, Minnifield is currently slotted to go in the 2nd so the 14th pick would be a reach for this player.
99yard_TD_Run - January 10, 2012
I said, take him in the second round
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012
three things I am looking forward to
1-My birthday in April
2-The DRAFT
3-June 8th that Alien prequel movie comes out
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
eh, it is or might not be a prequel. Just takes place in the same universe.
If we are lucky we will get to see the space jockey at the end. But yes I am very excited for that too. Prometheus
thebigham - January 10, 2012
It was originally going to be a prequel
but they decided to make it a stand alone movie. It will reference things from the Alien movie but it is not a prequel. Looks awesome, I can’t wait to see it
Nardfather - January 10, 2012
its a damn prequel
they can BS all they want, it was originally a prequel
it has Alien written all over it
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
looks like a prequel to me
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
just be warned.
I dont know how much you know about xenomorphs and space jockey but there won’t be much if anything
thebigham - January 10, 2012
what is this space jockey everyone talks of?
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
he is what all alien fans hope to find more out about.
Wiki it.
thebigham - January 10, 2012
When's your bday, I'm in April as well
tdships - January 10, 2012
Prometheus trailer
http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi2035129881/
tdships - January 10, 2012
+1
yehti - January 10, 2012 via mobile
awesome right
best trailer I have seen in years
The Hobbit trailer got me excited too
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
awsome .. wil ldef have to see that one ....
IRONRAVEN - January 10, 2012
7th
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Wow, 8th
almost twins
tdships - January 10, 2012
LOL wow that is crazy
maybe you are my long lost brother
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
my wifes is the 8th daughters the 4th
yehti - January 10, 2012 via mobile
April babies!
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
10th
GalTex - January 13, 2012
you mean
http://m.imdb.com/title/tt1446714/
and Ridley is doing it? ill be there opening night. love the Alien movies
yehti - January 10, 2012 via mobile
Yes he is
But is semi-denying its an Alien prequel
tdships - January 10, 2012
its close enough for me. looks good.
yehti - January 10, 2012 via mobile
he is trying to hide it and lie
its a prequel in my eyes
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
It is a prequel to Alien but Alien is not the main focus of the story
Jonathan Stern - January 11, 2012
yup back to science fiction baby
Ridley is my favorite director next to Nolan
Ridley also bought the rights to the book the Passage, which would make a awesome goddamn movie
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Three things I'm looking forward to
1… lunch
2… nap
3… supper
DIRE WOLF - January 10, 2012
Agreed
Especially the nap at my age.
illcowboy - January 10, 2012 via Android app
Any list that leaves out Mass Effect 3 or The Dark Knight Rises doesn't count haha.
Creasy729 - January 10, 2012
too many great movies this year
Seems like atleast one a month.
thebigham - January 10, 2012
yes
good movies in 2011, and 2012 looks crazy too
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
dont play Mass Effect
oh I do wanna see the Dark Knight Rises, just not as pumped as I am for the Aliens movie
that trailer was amazing
I loved the Dark Knight, so I know I will love the DKR, I love Nolan but I am just pumped for Ridley Scott’s return to sci fi
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Between TDKR and the Hobbit I dont know which one im more excited about seeing
StrosSouth - January 10, 2012
LOTR are my favorite movies
so I am way more hyped to see the Hobbit
I am confused, I read yesterday that the Hobbit was part one, so I assume the movie is in two parts?
I read the book, great book so I can see how they could make into two
the battle near the end could be a movie in itself
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Yeah PJ split it into movies to ry and get as much of the book onto film (so to speak)
StrosSouth - January 10, 2012
thats what I thought
glad PJ is doing it, Del Torro is cool and all, but LOTR is not LOTR without PJ
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Exactly. I feel like a teenager again talking about the Hobbit. lol
StrosSouth - January 10, 2012
great book
never could finish LOTR, way too much and confusing
but I read the Hobbit no problem
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
The books are even better than the movies my young friend
StrosSouth - January 10, 2012
Hobbit is a year away and then youll have to wait another year!
Sigh, i can’t get excited for that til after TDKR haha
thebigham - January 10, 2012
Hobbit is out in less than a year. This Dec
StrosSouth - January 10, 2012
Well it'll be late December sorry, leap year doesn't help!
You got me by a few weeks, so sorry.
thebigham - January 10, 2012
Dec 2012
long way aways
but the new Alien is soooooon
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
hunger games is sooner
same with tinker tailor toy spy
thebigham - January 11, 2012
DAMN! Its a leap year?! Man, time flies by fast th older you get.
StrosSouth - January 10, 2012
Wow Ratliff to DE we only have been saying for this to happen for a good 3 or 4 years now
Trueblue122 - January 10, 2012
+1
Jerry’s been meaning to do that, but he gets distracted by his endless bowl of apple sauce.
Lord Humungus - January 10, 2012
I thought it was franks and beans..hmm
StrosSouth - January 10, 2012
1st Alien Movie was best horror/monster film ever
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
loved the first one but i like Aliens better.
yehti - January 10, 2012 via mobile
Aliens is one of my favorite movies of all time
Classic Cameron
Nardfather - January 10, 2012
The first movies theme was a terrifying concept, being caged up with that creature in outer space and no where to go.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
kinda similar to Jaws.......... well except water the space.
first of there kinds always gets huge scares. Alien is a fantastic movie i might watch the first 2 this weekend now
yehti - January 10, 2012 via mobile
I think I am too
after seeing that trailer for the new one, I gotta watch 1 and 2 again
after that I gave up, they were horrible
sad considering David Fincher directed one of those
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Original Alien
mines a venerable SF theme – ‘the ghost ship,’ where protagonists are trapped somewhere with an malevolent, inescapable force. Recurs over and over throughout literature – The Flying Dutchman, It Came from Outer Space, Amityville Horror, House on Haunted Hill, etc.
For suspense and terror – Alien is the sh!t, for action and one-liners Aliens is the best. One I’ve used many times regarding our beloved Cowboys, I don’t know if you’ve been keeping up with current events, but we just got our ass kicked.’
Blade Runner is another RS favorite – phenomenal cast: Harrison Ford, Rutger Hauer, Sean Young, M Emmett Walsh, Edward James Olmos and Daryl Hannah
tdships - January 10, 2012
I never watched Blade Runner
I tried once, it was too weird
I bet if that movie was made know, it would be one of my favorites
I just cant get into it
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Bill Paxton is great i like his speach when they drop out ofthe ship and hes talking how BA they are "nukes sharp sticks"
yehti - January 10, 2012 via mobile
Bill Paxton is great i like his speach when they drop out ofthe ship and hes talking how BA they are "nukes sharp sticks"
yehti - January 10, 2012 via mobile
same here i always watch the directors cut.
it deff adds more to the movie.
yehti - January 10, 2012 via mobile
same here
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
really?
idk, I kinda like the 2nd one better
28 Days Later is my favorite horror movie ever, I like fast zombies, they are scary
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
28 days was GREAT but 28 wks later was even better imo
DarkKnight88 - January 10, 2012
It's getting to where I go to Twitter first for sports news.
Then when I want more details and insight, I come here. Of course, part of my Twitter and Facebook feed is BtB.
As soon as football season is over, I might have to change that habit. Too many of the Dallas sportswriters think I need play by play of Mavericks games. It’s super annoying. Just give me any true standout moments and quarterly updates, thanks.
Baked Potato Soup - January 10, 2012
What's the FB handle?
Can’t seem to find it.
Pharm.D. - January 10, 2012
NVM...found it ;)
Pharm.D. - January 10, 2012
If anyone had doubts, let this quell them
Cowboys fans ARE smarter than the FO.
We’ve been talking about moving Ratliff to DE for years now.
accidental innuendo - January 10, 2012
+90
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
Would Anyone Flip Out if We Drafted an OG in the 1st?
If DeCastro is really one of the best guards in years to come out, why not go BPA? I know our secondary both sucks and blows at the same time…
Lord Humungus - January 10, 2012
nope
if hes BPA on Dallas’ board i have no problem with it. just stick to your noard and dont try to get cute.
yehti - January 10, 2012 via mobile
noard = board
little phone buttons
yehti - January 10, 2012 via mobile
Hey, don't get cute.
fs65 - January 10, 2012
TY for the fix
yehti - January 10, 2012 via mobile
Totally agree +52
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
If De Castro is there, pick him, otherwise Ingram or Upshaw for me. Dre is a top 10 pick after last night.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
I wanna see Upshaws workout.
Jonathan Stern - January 11, 2012
No. Giving Romo better protection=points. Giving the RBs better holes=points.
Don’t see a down side to it.
Benthere - January 10, 2012
agreed, my #1 on my Dallas wishlist is to finish the Oline
get 1 part complete and move to the next spot that needs fixing.
yehti - January 10, 2012 via mobile
I agree, simply because our best chance at a rapid fix is to have a prolific offense like the Saints, Pack and the Pats.
We can still vastly improve the D in FA and the draft. I just think that Deacastro would make our O a top 5 O in the league.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
DeCastro
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
Geathers is a big man
I’m wondering if they think they can bulk him up some more (he’s already listed at 300) and have him back up Brent. He’s a big body to sit in the middle of the line. Our run defense went south a bit when Brent wasn’t playing. Not saying he’ll become a pro bowl beast but he could mean something to the line when playing.
I could see Spencer going if they could find a first round OLB, I think Coleman is gone regardless.
Hatcher has been the surprise on the line this last year and I’m glad they kept him.
Final Frame - January 10, 2012
Geathers is like 6'8
He’ll never be a NT
Lissyyyyy - January 10, 2012
a little over 6-6
Jonathan Stern - January 11, 2012
About drafting DeCastro
I assume we won’t resign Spencer that would mean that we would have to find a starting OLB somehow in the draft or free agency. This draft doesn’t have a lot of great passrushers, Upshaw and Ingram are the best 3-4 OLBs available. I doubt any rookie other than those 2 can step in and start right away. So I think we should go Upshaw in the first and grab a G later in the draft, that we draft a great OLB prospect and we can get a pretty good G prospect as well. Not to mention that we still have Arkin, Nagy, and Kowalski to develop so hopefully one of these guys could develop into a starting player and the O line would be improved.
CaliCowboysFan92 - January 10, 2012
Don't know if they let Spencer go. I think he gets a bad rap because everyone expects him to be another
D Ware, but D Wares are rare. DeCastro is our quick fix to improve the O and make it elite. We could get someone in the second like Irvin(OLB) or Wynn(DE) or Carriker(DE), who might turn out just fine. I think that DeCastro will be gone and Upshaw or Ingram will be the pick with hopefully Zeitler or Warmack in round #2
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
Or a CB in round #2.
FA is key.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
I've thought Ratliff would be the best 3 technique in the league
He’s had two down years at nose, I don’t know how effective he’ll be at 5-tech but could be a monster if he plays like a 3-tech singled up on a guard
Blue Eyed Devil - January 10, 2012 via mobile
Wasn't there talk about this last season?
If I remember correctly, it was determined that his arms are too short (the only real knock against him, he put up elite measurables) and a determent when going up against longer armed tackles, and keeping him inside mitigated this. It was also stated that he started as a DE and didn’t wow until they kicked him inside where he was able to use his quickness to devastating effect.
TheCowboyWay - January 10, 2012
And for all of those clamoring for a big fatty to put in the middle
Did everyone forget who Rat took over for?
Fergy.
And he was pretty good for a big clogger. But Rat with his quickness was a huge upgrade.
It just seems that alot here have forgotten that we have had this set up before. Not saying its bad or better/worse, just pointing out that we do have back data to compare too and what should reasonably be expected. This isn’t an unknown.
TheCowboyWay - January 10, 2012
maybe a sign Brent is in for a bigger role at nose
I would love to see us use our first round pick for defense and get a real stud, but look interior oline in the 2nd or 3rd round, but otherwise needs to be a heavily defensive draft
scottmaui - January 10, 2012
Hmmm...there are also talks
Of shifting to a 4-3 which is a somewhat suspect IMO.
azrael99 - January 10, 2012 via mobile
Quite Frankly
I would be very intrigued by this potential first 2 picks if DeCastro isn’t available
RD1: Nick Perry: has the size and speed for 3-4 OLB (6’3, 250, runs 4.6 40) in 2009, as a freshman lead USC with 8.5 sacks, and in 2011 led Pac-12 with 9.5 sacks.
RD2: Chase Minnifield (CB#5 in the draft): This is our guy if Kirkpatrick is off the board; for starters his father was a former Pro Bowl Corner for Cleveland from ‘82-92 (good bloodlines); he has 13 career INTS at Virginia; he’s got excellent ball skills and can play both press-man and off coverage (long arms and has really good handy eye coordination); plus he’s an excellent tackler; he can also return punts. Listed at 6’0 185 running a 4.49 40
Rohpuri - January 10, 2012 via mobile
Like both of them. Would need Guard in FA.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
Co-sign.
I think that with the positions we’re trying to fill right now using a 1st rounder on a CB isn’t the best idea. I believe Chase could come in and start providing an immediate upgrade over Newman. I’m personally not sold on the often injured Jenkins and would love to grab Omar Bolden from ASU in the 4th.
UnitedStateOfTX - January 10, 2012
I like both of those picks
I would be very pleased if that happened
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Chia
what are your thoughts on Jared Crick? How far do you think he falls in the draft with his injury?
Rohpuri - January 10, 2012 via mobile
He'll go in round 2-4 depending on his combine and his physical.
If he’s there in round 3 I’d consider him, but he’ll likely go late in round 2.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
I like him
a team towards the end of the first might grab him but I dont see him falling out of the 2nd
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
I have made it clear that OLB is what I want most (although I guess I could live with DeCastro).
One of Perry, Ingram, and Upshaw, should be there at #14 if not all three, and I would like any of them to replace Anthony (contingent on the combine of course).
Creasy729 - January 10, 2012
I hate Spencer
I want a tee shirt that says
I HATE ALMOST ANTHONY SPENCER
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
lol
Rohpuri - January 10, 2012 via mobile
Right now, leaning towards Perry over Ingram and Upshaw
Hopefully all 3 run the 40 at the combine. Right now, I think, Perry projects better as an OLB with his size and speed, while Ingram and Upshaw project better as 4-3 ends given their size.
Rohpuri - January 10, 2012 via mobile
What about Chandler Jones, I bet he works out better than them all.
Jonathan Stern - January 11, 2012
Since Robert Grinffin III just declared for the draft...
IF he is there at #14…should the Boys draft him? Would he be the BPA?
TheCowboyFan - January 10, 2012
Griffin...
TheCowboyFan - January 10, 2012
no way he is there
thebigham - January 10, 2012
you run to the commish to hand in your card if he falls to 14
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Not gonna happen bc our guy would trup on the way up to Goodell and wed get passed over
StrosSouth - January 10, 2012
If he fell that far think of the value of that pick.
Problem is that he’ll never get by Wash or Miami if he lasts that long. There are only 2 QBs worth a 1st Round pick this year and some are projecting Tannehill to rise into the top10.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
I would bet everything I have, no way that happens
Archie Barberio - January 10, 2012
Qb is so important that if a guy sniffs of being a franchise QB, someone will draft him.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
Like Gabbert?
StrosSouth - January 10, 2012
Yep and Tannehill and next year Landry Jones.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
And McElroy.
fs65 - January 10, 2012
I think Tyler Wilson will come out. If he doesn't I will be surprised.
He is better than Landry Jones.
football mensa - January 11, 2012
He hasn't declared yet, but he did send his name into the advisory committee.
Rena - January 11, 2012
Oh, for those who want to keep up with who has and hasn't declared.
I put up a fanshot with a tracker on it.
The not decided list isn’t complete as I know it is missing Tyler Wilson and another Razorback who is considering going pro.
Rena - January 11, 2012
Draft
All sorts of wonderful ideas today……………………..so I fully expect Jerry to draft a WR, an ILB, and a K in the first three rounds. I wonder if we can smuggle any one of you guys into the draft room looking like Jerry. Sorry, negativity, I know. I just so hope the man gets this one right.
Jace M - January 10, 2012
JG and Stephen would never let that happen. Stephen would have him committed
for insanity if he tried that.
pfloyd1 - January 10, 2012
Why don't we
sign OG Carl Nicks from NO (they can’t afford him) and draft one of Upshaw, Kirkpatrick, and Barron in the first round?
Nets2410 - January 10, 2012 via Android app
what I should say is
draft Kirkpatrick (best CB we can get at #14) Barron (best SS in the draft) or the best pass rushing OLB (whether that be Upshaw or someone else) at #14
Nets2410 - January 10, 2012 via Android app
Barron will be there in the 2nd rd
Rohpuri - January 10, 2012 via mobile
please
nobody named “Barron”
NUHuskyCowboyMinutemanCeltic - January 10, 2012
I see a few people going asking about if some of the players are strong enough.
Give them a FULL offseason with Woicek, something they didnt have this past season, they will only get stronger.
chromecowboy - January 10, 2012
Nick Perry Versus Chandler Jones
Who is the better prospect?
Jonathan Stern - January 11, 2012
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