After years of disappointment, fans of the Dallas Cowboys tend to be a little morose about the talent level of the current team. Of late, a consensus has formed that there are a small handful of top level players and rising stars on the team, with most of the roster full of sub-par players that are holding the team back. And since we all know in our hearts that we are able to make better decisions about the team than Jerry Jones, Stephen Jones, and Jason Garrett combined, we cry out loudly to clear out the deadwood and bring in the talent that players like Tony Romo, Jason Witten and DeMarcus Ware deserve to have helping them.
The frustration is understandable, especially for fans of a team with the history of success that the Cowboys had up until the mid-nineties. It is also a reasonable conclusion that there have been some horrible personnel choices made since then. Now we are waiting with barely controlled impatience for free agency and the draft to roll around. It is time to get that new talent in here and dump some wasted paychecks.
But the reality is that Dallas will have about $20 million to spend in free agency, and probably eight draft choices total going into the draft (counting the expected compensatory pick for Stephen Bowen). Based on what we saw last season, that is not going to fix all the problems if the only way to solve things is to remove and replace.
There have recently been some reports that the coaching staff, particularly Bill Callahan and Jerome Henderson, think that some of the solutions may already be on the team. Is this another case of overvaluing the roster we have, which lead to unmitigated fiascoes like the 2009 draft? Or is there more to see when a coach is on the inside with all the video and evaluation tools they have?
Seeking answers after the jump.
I pulled out the picture of Jason Garrett and the new hires to put on my article for a reason. Arguably the two biggest weaknesses in 2011 were the offensive line (particularly late in the season) and the secondary (particularly any time the other team had the ball). These problems were addressed immediately when Dave Campo was not retained and Hudson Houck retired - and I will always wonder if Hudson received a little encouragement in making that decision. Regardless, two well regarded coaches were brought in to get those units up to speed. In addition, Stephen Jones has stated that the offensive line and the secondary are the two biggest priorities for upgrade in the off season.
But there is that nagging issue of numbers. Free agency can only go as far as the team can afford it to. While $20 million looks like an enormous sum to most of us, in the NFL it can only bring in so many players. If you want to go with a couple of real impact players, that would use up most of it. Or you can go with solid replacements that have a lower price tag, but even then, you are only talking about three or four new people to bring in. Then your draft choices can only be expected realistically to provide three starters, and that is very optimistic.
I think we all know that the team needs to upgrade the play at more than six or seven positions. And even then, the question becomes how much of an upgrade can you get, and there will also be the inevitable injury issues to address.
Callahan and Henderson are already signaling that they expect to find some of the answers already on the team. Bill came out and stated that the talent of the Cowboys was part of what drew him to the team. He praised the offensive skill positions, and then had this to say about his job coaching the offensive line.
"That's the exciting aspect of this job. All those pieces are in place. You're always trying to get better. Now it's just a matter of shoring up the offensive line, continuing to improve that aspect of these young players and their development and again, get in this playoff and try to take a run at it."
Jerome seems to be on the same page when he discussed the way he sees his task with the secondary.
"I'm sure there are guys in place that will be on this team that will be big contributors on this team," Henderson said. "I just don't know the roles and I don't know what I have to do with them to get them to where I want them to be or where they should be."
Is that a reasonable view, or is that way too close to the "we just need a couple of players to get back to the top" theory?
I chalk part of what they say up to trying to show a little self-confidence in themselves. After all, improving things was what they were hired to do, and you would not really expect them to be defeatist in their first couple of weeks on the job. And they may be trying to change some attitudes out there as well. But how realistic are they?
In Callahan's case, he may have something to stand on. He likes young players he can coach up, and he has that with the Cowboys. There is already one likely improvement that almost everyone expects, flipping Tyron Smith and Doug Free, which it is widely believed will lead to better performance at the tackle positions. And it is not unreasonable to think that at least one of the interior line positions will be successfully manned next season by a player already on the team. Two is certainly possible.
And he does say much the same as many here when he points to the skill positions as something to build on. Trent Dilfer puts it a little more bluntly when he looks at Tony Romo.
I think the issue here is he needs more help from his teammates. I think they are not nearly as talented as people say they are, from 1 to 53. I'm talking about the total roster.
There is that lack of talent thing again. But is talent a static thing? We all know that players decline at some point in their career. However, they also can develop, particularly young ones with limited experience. That is apparently Callahan's position, and he has a track record that shows he is able to make a real difference.
Jerome may have some disappointment ahead, however. While you can point to some positives with the offensive line, and the fact that historically those players take a season or two to develop, the secondary is a different situation. It is hard to see how the best coach in the world is going to turn Alan Ball into an effective cornerback, or to realistically expect that Terence Newman has a good season left in him. Plus, he is just starting to evaluate his players. A few hours with the video may change his mind.
The good news is that there is hope to get some fresh, capable bodies for Henderson to work with. The draft is deep in cornerbacks. Safety is problematic, but at least he should expect to see some serious help with the corners. And the secondary is not the only place the team is looking to upgrade defensively. A more effective pass rush would help take some of the pressure off the defensive backs. The team will likely be looking for a stud pass rusher, and maybe there are some other moves afoot to accomplish the same thing.
The time might be coming for the Cowboys to switch back (to a 4-3) too. Sean Lee would be a great middle linebacker, and the Cowboys don't have a true nose tackle. But Jay Ratliff would be a monster of a defensive tackle. Demarcus Ware as a pass-rushing defensive end? Yes, please.
The thought has also crossed the mind of Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett, who himself was a protege of Parcells.
"We played a lot of three-man line, and we also played some four-man line in different situations this past year," Garrett said told the Fort Worth Star-Telegram last week. "We haven't gotten to the point where we're going to talk about what we're going to play yet. We're still evaluating the tape. ... Let us go through the process. You'll see some of that stuff once we get back on the field."
I fully realize that Garrettspeak is not the easiest thing to glean information from, but that does sound like an open door to me. It would really spark some excitement among the BTB participants who feel the team just doesn't have good 3-4 personnel, and in the minds of some who ought to know, it is really more about how you line up the team, anyway.
Last summer much was made about New England's move to a 4-3 from a 3-4, which seemed to irk coach Bill Belichick.
_____
"Honestly, I think that's something that is a media fabrication. There are a lot of different alignments out there. You see 4-3 teams use odd spacing. You see 3-4 teams use even spacing. You have 11 players, you can put them in various positions. Whether you want to put it on the pre-game depth chart as one thing or another, I think is a little bit overrated."
As I have talked about before, the parts of a football team don't work in isolation. Improving one part (pass rush or pass protection) can lead to improvements in other areas (fewer passes completed against the secondary, more passes completed by the offense). You don't have to find all pros at all the positions, just make improvements overall. It looks like the team certainly has a plan for making the needed improvements, and the fact that going to a 4-3 is at least being looked at indicates that they are willing to explore whatever options might pay off.
Still, I feel a little concern reading the new coaches talking about what we already have. As you might be able to tell, I think there is certainly some hope on the offensive line, but I start getting really skeptical when the secondary gets into that conversation. My hope is that the team is able to get better performance from many of the players on the roster, because most of them will still be there when the 2012 season starts. And I really hope that there will be some key new faces to help shore up the problem areas. It's going to take some of both.
0 recs | 206 comments
Our secondary was the worst in the league. The only player worth a damn was Jenkins.
I don’t care how good Henderson is, without better secondary players we won’t be able to cover anyone next year. Even with a better pass rush we cannot count on the current roster to provide the necessary coverage.
Much more optimistic about the Yuglies especially if one David DeCastro joins the group.
pfloyd1 - January 23, 2012
I would say that scandrick is ok but I’m hoping to have 2 new cbs on the team next year. Would love to have Chase minnefield and josh norman in the 2nd and 3rd round
nicholas.rodriguez - January 24, 2012 via mobile
I agree with you
The line has promise and can use slightly fewer upgrades but the secondary should not be in that conversation.
I don’t expect the secondary coach to say everyone sucks and they need a whole new one…even if it’s true. But Alan Ball better not be on this team next year.
beWARE94 - January 23, 2012 via iPhone app
I think one quality CB upgrades the whole secondary.
If Jenkins can stay healthy, that would help out a lot right there. Scandrick is here for at least a couple years, and he is average at least. Any decent young CB will be an upgrade over an injured Newman. I suspect Ball will be gone, because you can bring in a younger cheaper guy to be your 4th CB. The big question mark is FS. Sensabaugh is a quality SS, but I think Elam would be a better backup than starter. He’s serviceable for another year, though, as you can’t completely overhaul the team in one year.
Baked Potato Soup - January 23, 2012
My feeling exactly
+1
liquidblake - January 23, 2012
Dallas Needs To Go Veteran FAs
at oline, say a center and a guard. Then move down a bit in round one to try and add a second round two pick to go with a slightly lower round one pick from the trade down. Then Dallas needs to find defensive players, including two corners, with the top four picks.
Iowacowboy - January 24, 2012
I wouldn't assume Ball is gone
Yes, he pretty well sucks everywhere he’s been put, but on a 53 man roster there’s value to a “utility infielder” kinda guy. Ball can play CB and S in a pinch and does OK on special teams. 2 injury backups from a guy that will dress on Sunday is hard to throw away without some hard thinking.
dteowner - January 24, 2012
Exactly ive already said this more than once
I’ve watched ball all year he played with bad out dated technique. He never played the qb or ball he played eyes hands and shoulders of the receivers. He was there in place just couldn’t make the play cause of technique. Ball might be here next year just cause he can play a multitude of positions when needed. Besides getting 3 corners before next season is a possibility but that still leaves you one injury away from playing a Saftey at that position and we saw how that went last year. If they feel like they need more depth I bet they keep ball and coach him up.
Sado44 - January 24, 2012 via mobile
The position coaches are just that
They teach the assignments and technique of each position to their specific group of players. It would be a lost cause or self-fulfilling prophecy if Henderson came out and said the secondary played like crap because it’s void of any talent; as most of the current DBs would get down on themselves even more (Gerald will just count his $). He needs to say the right things so the players the team decides to retain buy into his methods.
Rohpuri - January 23, 2012 via mobile
Agree
. . . new position coach would have to say what these guys said; I recall Ryan saying about the same thing.
Iowacowboy - January 24, 2012
Not only that but
that’s RR’s style – everything said about his players in public is positive.
dunkman - January 24, 2012
I'm expecting a lot of improvement next year, without too many moves.
The biggest areas that need improvement are CB, ILB, G, and C. Carter will upgrade ILB, as he can’t be worse, and will likely be much better due to athleticism. An early round CB will improve that spot, because again, they can’t be much worse than an injured Newman at the end of the year, due to athleticism.
That leaves G and C. I would love to see 2 guys acquired, one through free agency and one early in the draft. Then see if Callahan can either turn one of our coals into a diamond from Arkin, Nagy, Kowalski, or if Kosier or Holland can play at a decent level for an entire year.
I think the pass rush will improve if Hatcher can stay healthy, and they make sure that he, Lissemore, and Ratliff are in on obvious passing downs, and Spears, Brent, and Coleman are in on obvious running downs. If Spencer is retained, I’d like to see Butler or someone else spell him on obvious passing downs.
I think that 4 quality players is all that’s needed to drastically improve the team on both sides of the ball.
Baked Potato Soup - January 23, 2012
I agree overall
At least 4 quality guys would improve this team on both sides.
However, I would include the safety position as a postion of upgrade as well.
Rohpuri - January 23, 2012 via mobile
I agree, but with whom?
Obviously Sensabaugh is staying and starting, and he’s at least average or slightly better, and durable. Elam is also durable and average to slightly below. Plus, he seems to have decent intelligence. I’d like to see him retained as a backup if nothing else. I don’t know if you can find an athletic, smart FS out there in either the draft or FA that is a legit upgrade, without sacrificing to improve more at another position. What I mean is, I think we can see a larger improvement at other positions than what we would see at S for what it would cost in either an early draft pick or salary cap.
Baked Potato Soup - January 23, 2012
There are 5 really good safeties in this draft
1) Mark Barron: intelligent, instinctual, physical, and a ball hawk.
2) George Iloka: hits like LB, covers like CB at FS.
3,4) Markelle Martin & Tramain Thomas-these guys can hit, tackle, break up passes, and create turnovers.
5) The guy from Notre Dame (forgetting his name right now) he had 7 picks last year. Intelligent player, and can tackle.
Rohpuri - January 23, 2012 via mobile
Harrison Smith
is the safety from Notre Dame.
Long Ball - January 23, 2012
thank you
Rohpuri - January 23, 2012 via mobile
At Drafttek, we have the safeties ranked as follows:
Free Safety
1. Markelle Martin
2. Aaron Henry
3. Trenton Robinson
4. Eddie Whitley
5. George Iloka
6. Tysyn Harman
Strong Safety
1. Mark Barron
2. Antonio Allen
3. Harrison Smith
4. Brandon Taylor
5. Winston Guy
6. Duke Ihenacho
Long Ball - January 23, 2012
I disagree with Aaron Henry
1) The dude looked lost in the East-West Shrine game.
2) Too much injury history with him, he was at wisconsin since 2007.
3) He was terrible at CB that they moved himto safety.
4) He never forced many turnovers-important in the evaluation, either have said ability or you don’t.
Compare to Iloka
1) Guy has been a 3 yr starter at FS
2) He covers well and tackles well
3) He can force turnovers
4) He’s athletic enough that Boise used him at CB in it’s final 3 games due to injuries at the CB position.
Compare Henry to Tramain from Arkansas
1) Traimain was a tackle and turnover creating machine.
2) Tramain was multiple year starter
3) Tramain from the safety position led his team in INTs this year: he had 5 of team’s 11.
Markelle Martin is another guy I like, as he can play either Safety position, a Dawkins type. He can separate guys from the ball, has better ball skills than Henry, and has better instincts for the position. Never had injury concerns.
I just don’t see why people rate Henry above these guys I mentioned.
Rohpuri - January 23, 2012 via mobile
As far as SS goes
I have no disgreements with the rankings.
Rohpuri - January 23, 2012 via mobile
Where is Lester on that list?
That’s a strange list without him.
egriffey - January 23, 2012
he`s not in this yrs draft
2013
ziggy19 - January 24, 2012
Mystery Solved
Thanks
egriffey - January 24, 2012
Janzen Jackson
if he had kept his nose clean at Tenn he would be a second or third round pick. He will be a steal for some team late.
TK19 - January 23, 2012 via Android app
I like Tysyn Hartman from KSU as a late round safety.
pfloyd1 - January 23, 2012
i agree the talent at safety in this draft is better then credit is being giving.
sometimes scouts need to focus less on measurables & focus more about what they get done on the field.
DCNation73 - January 24, 2012
ive seen enough of measureables vs production
focus in the NBA Draft. I tend towards the school that say: When meadurables and production blended together in colllege, take that guy.
however when you only have measureables on your side and your compared to a guy at your position with less measureables and better production, I’ll take production every time.
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
as a Boise resident who goes to the games I'd love to pick up
George Iloka or Doug Martin…or both. The other thing you get with BSU players is disciplined preparation. As a group I’d bet there’s no one in America that crunches more film to prepare for an opponent b/c Petersen demands it from them and teaches that from day 1.
pjohn56 - January 24, 2012
plus he's got terrific size
6’3+, 233 lbs, with CB speed
pjohn56 - January 24, 2012
Iloka would be a great FS for us
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
SDSU (Aztecs) alum here
I’ve been very aware of Boise St since 2003. I really like Iloka, Martin, Moore, Potter, McKlellan (the pass rusher they lined up nickle a few times).
I love what you guys do in recruiting and just overall team identity.
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
i mean McClellin
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Thanks man. Yeah McClellin is really athletic. he weighed in at 248 and so they are working him
at LB’er and I guess he’s holding his own there. I’m excited about taking a step to the Big East and I’m glad it was SDSU that came with us.
pjohn56 - January 24, 2012
I agree with the cost-benefit analysis.
In that light, corner (Newman) and two inside linebacker positions (James and Brooking) can be either upgraded or adequately replaced for far less than the current expense.
We got what we paid for at safety, interior o line, d line.
It remains to be seen what Spencer will cost on the open market. Bennett, also. The two of them were absolutely worth their salaries last season.
CotySaxman - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Well put.
I think that if any team offers Spencer more $$ than a run-stopper deserves, or Bennett more $$ than a blocking TE deserves, we should just say goodbye. Until then, we can be glad we have these (competent and minor) pieces on our team.
boyman - January 24, 2012
Expect more moves if you want.....
the team to improve. It’s the bitter clinging to dead money reality that holds improvement back. It went on for years in the oline, repeated itself in the secondary and LB spots as well in 2011.
Far more meat ax required than tweak.
Cwon1 - January 23, 2012
Doesn't matter.
As long as we have Romo, we ain’t winning a freaking playoff game, let alone the Super Bowl.
Jerry Jones -“Eli is the biggest difference between Giants and Cowboys”
ouch.
Brandon10 - January 23, 2012
-1
BigDumbFace - January 23, 2012 via iPhone app
Is your username a reference to Eli? 'Cause if it is, that's awesome.
Fernie67 - January 23, 2012
Unfortunately, no.
I was tempted to lie to be more awesome.
BigDumbFace - January 25, 2012
Brandon here's what JJ said
JJ: “I thought Romo was competing at a level that would’ve given us that opportunity but the rest of us need to play better and get better before we can really jell the way the Giants are.”
JJ also said, QB is not an area the Cowboys need much improvement: the context being replacing the retired Jon Kitna.
Rohpuri - January 23, 2012 via mobile
Man you are so wrong about Romo. I hope they fix the OL, Nicks and DeCastro, and then we'll see you eat crow.
pfloyd1 - January 23, 2012
I think it benefits the whole team in many ways if you go FA C + DeCastro > FA G + DeCastro.
thebigham - January 24, 2012
I think
We should get a FA that can play either G or C. There are a few of them available. Then we can draft a G and have our youth battle it out for the remaining spot, either C or G. One through the draft, one through free agency and one already on the team. Best way to go with our limited resources.
Oakster41 - January 24, 2012
this
Romo bashing is back. It may be dumb and idiotic and wrong but every1 has an opnions but u kno what they say about em.
cjs.93 - January 23, 2012 via mobile
that`s the way pft reports it
biggest difference according to Jerry is Eli at QB.
Jerry should shut up.
ziggy19 - January 24, 2012
Jerry wasnt saying Eli is better than Romo
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
Reports are that Watkins took a sentence out of context just to have a big headline for clicks.
The full story is on the mothership or BD gives us what someone who was there said really happened in another thread.
Rena - January 24, 2012
Dallas has already won a playoff game with Romo
Thanks for providing the “Worst Thought Out Post the Day.”
Now that that’s out of the way…
dunkman - January 24, 2012
2 if you count the cabo bye in 2007....
McLovin9 - January 24, 2012
That gets four facepalms.
Tom Ryle - January 24, 2012
Come on, Tom, have a heart. It's hard to come up with new material.
Fernie67 - January 24, 2012
Bullshit
Romo’s problem is lack of protection – period. We can win with him if we upgrade the O-line, assuming the D also fixes its problems.
Keith Moon - January 24, 2012
this perfect pocket you want for Romo isn't going to happen in the NFC East
you better join the crowd with the Eagles & Giants with a domiante pass rush bc no OL can hold defenders off for very long. you’ll break the break trying to sure up an OL in this division & if Dallas doesnt soon join them then dont expect much difference.
Dallas had a franchise QB, decent OL but that pass rush is pathetic besides Ware. pass rush can control a game even with average QBs & defense will always give you a chance to win on gameday.
DCNation73 - January 24, 2012
err HAS not had***
DCNation73 - January 24, 2012
Nobody exepcts a perfect pocket
we just don’t expect a jailbreak every other pass play
Terry - January 24, 2012
Bingo
Keith Moon - January 24, 2012
roll on #10 troll
DCNation73 - January 24, 2012
Not Nearly as Talented as Purported to be...
I can’t speak for other NFL team fanbases (I’m sure others are the same…), but Cowboy fans typically have a penchant for overvaluing the “talent” on the roster.
This team simply hasn’t been as talented as it’s been purported to be for years. No, you don’t need a steak on every plate, but guys like Bradie James, Orlando Scandrick, Marcus Spears, et cetera, are not special players. Add to that the dramatically declining play Terence Newman the past few seasons, or a guy like Igor Olshansky for the few seasons we had him.
Also, as much as I like Jay Ratliff, I think he’s seen his better days behind him and why it puzzles me as to why we extended him. I think he can still be a productive player, but I don’t believe he’s this force to be reckon with.
On the positive side, I do think we are making positive changes to the roster and coaching staff. Guys like Tyron, DeMarco, Sean Lee, Lissemore, Dez and a few others are helping to transform the roster.
My fear is that Jerry will fall into the trap of thinking guys like Arkin, Kowalski and Nagy are better options than DeCastro or Nicks.
Phillyboijr - January 23, 2012
I'm not sure Dallas fans are any different from other fans
go to any blog at the beginning of the season and you’ll find the same level of valuation. And it’s fine. Better to be hopeful than despairing. I mean it IS supposed to be entertainment, not punishment….
dunkman - January 24, 2012
i agree here--
the very most fun I ever have as a fan is not when the GM pays to bring in some big name who (of course) plays well, but when some undrafted guy develops into a stud. Yes, we should be realistic, and I’m very very glad that we have a new coach who seems more willing to axe old and overpaid players.
But it may be a different picture with young, cheap players— “reality” includes surprises and good scouting /coaching can produce diamonds in the rough. That’s one of the most fun parts of the game.
boyman - January 24, 2012
I enjoy that part as well
although it probably demands drafting/acquiring multiple players at positions of need hoping that some will pan oout and others can provide much needed depth.
dunkman - January 24, 2012
yeah, if fans can't be optimistic, then what's the purpose of even being a fan
If somebody always want to be 100% objective all the time, just call yourself an interested spectator and stop kidding yourself
Terry - January 24, 2012
Whats the scale we're using to answer this question, Tom?
5Blings - January 23, 2012
Dunno.
One to five facepalms?
Tom Ryle - January 23, 2012
oh so your bring the Wade scale back?
DCNation73 - January 24, 2012
Switching back to a 4-3???
Yes, please!!!
1 proud terp - January 23, 2012
No!!!!
The NFL teams that get “it” are all using a combination of the two. And that is what we are doing and what I think you will continue to see.
The Key is to get a pass rush with just rushing 4 players. It doesnt matter what the front is as long as you can get pressure with just 4 guys, so 7 can play back.
The 3-4 is much better at disguising where that 4th guy is coming from and that is SUPER important!!!!
CoachGary - January 24, 2012
Amen coach
Good to have you back, haven’t seen you around these parts in awhile.
matt575 - January 24, 2012 via mobile
The 3-4 in Dallas sucks. They don't have 3-4 personnel.
Who cares about disguising ? The Gmen don’t use much disguise. They just line up and bring it hard. This si what Dallas needs to do because the fo isn’t smart enough to draft 3-4 players.
football mensa - January 24, 2012
I wouldn't call the Giants a great defense either
Let’s lok at their last 5 opponents…Jets offense totally sucks, we were handicapped with a very bad interior OL, Falcons offense sucks too, GB simply had a bad game, too many self-inflicted mistakes and SF, yeah, their offense sucks too
Let’s see how they do against a motivated Brady lead Pats offense…I bet they light up the GMen
Terry - January 24, 2012
How much?
Jace M - January 24, 2012
22pts
thebigham - January 24, 2012
Nah, I'm trying to get some action on this game.
HAHAHA. Kidding feds. This was a joke.
Jace M - January 24, 2012
Uhhuh.../gets out her book.
Rena - January 24, 2012
30+ points
Terry - January 24, 2012
If I was a betting man........
I would take that.
Jace M - January 24, 2012
The FO would be stupid to draft Brockers for their defense
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
I wouldnt say we dont have the
Personal we have a decent defense that could be great with a strong secondary. Oh I guess this comes from Dallas being a top 10 pass rush defense right not good enough I think Mensa would rather Texas just succeed from the united states so Dallas can’t play in the NFL anymore. Wow our defense wasn’t horrible this season and with some new players at key positions will be very good next year.
Sado44 - January 24, 2012 via mobile
thank you coach
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Strictly by the numbers . . .
Internal improvement within an NFL roster begins with year zero (rookies) to year one, year one to year two, year two to year three . . . and then, as Coach Landry told Coach Parcells, if they haven’t figured it out after year three, it’s time to cut bait.
Here are the numbers of young players on the Cowboys roster (courtesy of the mothership):
Rookies – 18
Year 1 – 5
Year 2 – 9
Year 3 – 8
Total – 40
Now, if only half of those players pan out, you have 20 young improved players plus the 6 or 7 you hope to address via free agency and/or the draft this year.
Figures don’t lie . . . but then again, liars figure!
Long Ball - January 23, 2012
How the hell did Spears make it past 2007?
Rohpuri - January 23, 2012 via mobile
He's been solid against the run . . .
And is actually misplaced, as he would be much better as a 4-3 DT . . . you can’t have pass rushers at every position (although it would be nice) LOL!
Long Ball - January 23, 2012
Parcells wanted Spears over Ware the yr they switched to 3-4
LOL!!!!
Rohpuri - January 23, 2012 via mobile
the giants don't seem to have a problem
playing 4 pass rushers a times in every game they play; as Tuck, Osi, Kiwanuka, and JPP all at the same time in their Nascar Package. Joseph and Canty spell them.
Rohpuri - January 23, 2012 via mobile
yeah but all they do is draft pass rushers high
this is hyperbole of course but they do draft far more pass rushers then we do
kitten mittens - January 23, 2012 via Android app
and not worry about their secondary or LBs
If the QB is smashed or dead, he cannot throw the ball
a hay - January 24, 2012
Then why is most of their secondary
Composed of 1st round picks?
CotySaxman - January 24, 2012 via mobile
And you can add Marvin Austin next year.
Compare all of those linemen to the Dallas linemen.
football mensa - January 24, 2012
Canty isnt a slouch rushing the passer but he does put some size on that DL
DCNation73 - January 24, 2012
Long Ball I have said that for years. Spears is a large man.
Rat could be the penetrating dt and Spears could be the run stuffer.
football mensa - January 24, 2012
why cant you have all pass rushers on the DL?
pass rushers can tackle also & this thoery about run stoppers just doesnt make sense. 2 down run stoppers on the DL are becoming dinosours in this era of the NFL.
controlling the middle with huge NT that can push is huge in the 3-4 & all the other positions benifit from it.
DCNation73 - January 24, 2012
You can . . .
I was talking more about the failure rate of college pass rushers in the NFL and how you would have to invest a larger portion of your draft on pass rushers while neglecting other positions. The Giants seem to do it, so it is possible.
Long Ball - January 24, 2012
Hey Long Ball
long time no see
Blue Eyed Devil - January 23, 2012
Been kinda busy Blue . . .
Tracking down all the underclassmen decisions and revamping the Big Board . . . I just took a break from fine-tuning the data base to make it easier to access while watching Senior Bowl practices.
Long Ball - January 24, 2012
One thing I don't think a lot of people understand
The Giants defense went back to basics around 7-7 and started to dominate. Rob Ryans style is to confuse the offense (QB) with different looms and blitzes. Teams that have dominate defenses win. No brainer right?
A team has to be able to get great pressure with 4 rushing. If a team can do that, the team doesn’t need all those smoke and mirrors.
Read the article about JJ and the Senior Bowl. He mentions getting a few new faces in the secondary. He also mentions getting a Center for Romo.
Any draft do overs?
torchindefenses - January 23, 2012 via mobile
That's one of the lessons I'm taking away from this year
Elite QBs and OCs have gotten very good at dissecting all the blitzes and beating them with hot routes. Tom Brady’s passer rating is about 10 points higher WHEN BEING BLITZED than when he’s not.
Scheme seems to matter less and less on defense every year. It’s so much about talent and winning the pass-rushing matchups. If your 4 pass rushers are more talented than the opponent’s 5 O-linemen you are a great defense. If they aren’t you suck.
Blue Eyed Devil - January 23, 2012
Just think what RR may be able to do with decent players. I don't over-estiamte the talent on this team.
We have a great core of skilled players. It’s the trenches and the seconadary that need help, big time help. Most other positions need some depth.
We fix the O and at least we make the playoffs. Just improve the D to a top 10-12 and we can compete with anyone.
We need 2-3 quality OLmen, I’m thinking Nicks and DeCastro. Nagy or Killer K at Center, Arkin and Costa as reserves. Get a pass rusher, Irvin, a CB, Minnefield or one of the others in round 2-3 by trading up if necessary. Sign a FA safety and we’re in business. Of course we are still vulnerable to injury but it’s a good start.
pfloyd1 - January 23, 2012
+1000
CoachGary - January 24, 2012
Well thats the problem we don't have 4 pass rushers.
And even though they don’t blitz schemes to matter because you don’t know which 4 are coming. or maybe 5. Watch the Texans, Giants, Niners in the playoffs. Yes they rushed four a lot but it wasn’t obvious what 4.
thebigham - January 24, 2012
I don't think that is true
While the scheme were simplified, the Giants also got Tuck back to almost 100% and got Uemieoya back.
The simplification was actually to rush 4 men more, and less zone blitzing. When you have Tuck, Osi, Kiwi and Pierre Paul… it is easier to create pressure with 4
a hay - January 24, 2012
No Kidding
. . . the Giants defensive front, after getting healthy, is a force to behold. They are deep and talented . . . teams focus on JPP, then others break out. Dallas defensive front can’t hold a candle to the Giants group.
Iowacowboy - January 24, 2012
Its easy to go back to the basics
when your front four can consistently kick the sh*t out of the other team’s O-line…
rabblerousr - January 24, 2012
internal improvements i'm hoping for
the o-line(to where they only add DeCastro or one free agent like Carl Nicks). Hopefully Nagy, Kowalski, Costa, Arkin, Free all come back healthy and stronger and capable of being quality starters
Scandrick playing on the oustide. Unless they keep Jenkins for cheap this will be huge as they may need to pile up dough for a top-flight corner to help erase Jenkins and Newmans nightmares(for either play or injuries) from the last two years
Bruce Carter being healthy and playing at 3/4 of what Sean Lee’s impact thus far.
they really need it, i would like to see it as i would like to see them re-sign Laurent and then be able to use the rest of the money on D-linemen, Edge-rushing LB’s, and some combination of safety/corner upgrading
starbury_to_s-jaxci2000 - January 23, 2012
jenkins is a good cb, scandrick is a slot cb
We already need to replace 3 corners immediately, let’s not make that 4.
matt575 - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Carter playing well will cover a HUGE hole in our defense.
This past season the older guys killed us.When the DBs actually had good coverage the opposing QB always had a TE or a RB out of the backfield wide open.More often then not it was Bradie or Brooking getting beat.Carter playing full time is a must.
NVCowboy4Life - January 24, 2012
Who else in the league primarily runs a 4-3 defense?
Fernie67 - January 23, 2012
about half the NFL
Eagles, Vikings, Titans, Browns, Giants, Broncos (although they should switch to 3-4), Rams, Lions off the top of my head
Blue Eyed Devil - January 23, 2012
Gracias.
Fernie67 - January 23, 2012
Broncos just went back with the 4-3. Fox is a 4-3 guy.
football mensa - January 25, 2012
Primarily 4-3 teams
AFC North:
-Bengals
AFC West:
-Raiders
-Broncos (I think)
AFC South:
-Tennessee
-Jacksonville
-Indy
AFC East:
-Patriots (only team to use it all, they are a matchup defense depending on the team they play, the alignment changes).
NFC East:
-Philly
-New York
NFC North:
-Detroit
-Chicago
-Minnesotta
NFC South:
-NOLA
-ATL
-TB
-Carolina
NFC West:
-St Louis
Rohpuri - January 23, 2012 via mobile
Thanks!
Fernie67 - January 23, 2012
Hey look at that
7 of the 12 playoff teams, and both Super Bowl teams. Hmmm
sportsfanatic21 - January 24, 2012
17 out of 32 teams (about 53%) run the 4-3 and about 58% of the teams in the playoffs are 4-3.
That tells me the percentage of 4-3 teams in the playoffs is not significantly different than the percentage of 4-3 teams in the league. From this, I would say it is less about 4-3 vs. 3-4 and more about the talent level. The only thing that I see that can argue against this is the fact that the top 5 defenses during the regular season were all 3-4 defenses.
Grimlock83 - January 24, 2012
And none of the teams we beat.
football mensa - January 25, 2012
I see them getting a new center
But I really do not see them going after Nicks or a G in the first. I think they will go with a vet center in FA and play Nagy and Arkin at the G’s.
I also think they may go with one FA CB as well. Maybe someone like Carr or Web.
Then a top pass rusher in the first and a CB in the 2nd. That guy would most likely be your #4 CB.
tattooed cowboy - January 23, 2012
I really hope they get a FA center
I think that’s the one spot they have to get a center. They can’t go with what’s on this roster and you don’t want to get forced into drafting a lesser-talented player in the draft.
Blue Eyed Devil - January 23, 2012
I do, too.
Fernie67 - January 23, 2012
+1
torchindefenses - January 23, 2012 via mobile
And a Free Agent Center should be cheaper than a Free Agent Guard...
though just as helpful to this team, if not more so, than a Guard.
Luke. - January 25, 2012
I would take that plan . . .
. . . but could see Dallas landing a guard to replace the veteran Holland. An athletic guy who could pull and lead Murray around the end.
Iowacowboy - January 24, 2012
take caution those who want a FA Center
Ppl have been advocating for Meyers from Houston. He wouldn’t fit our system because we don’t run the zone blocking system in our running game.
When signing FA linemen, you have to make sure the guy you bring in fits your system.
The Redskins are more likely to sign that Meyers guy because they use the zone blocking scheme.
Rohpuri - January 23, 2012 via mobile
We do run the Zone
Blocking scheme if I am not mistaken. Garrett wants to run more of it and that is why he got away from Maulers and went to more athletic guys. Guys like Davis and Columbo couldnt pull and Garrett wants to pull the offside Guard and run more “stretch” plays which is done with Zone blocking.
CoachGary - January 24, 2012
What did Callahan run with the Jets?
Bet that is what we run this fall. Garrett seems smart enough to bring in a guy who can deliver what he wants.
Tom Ryle - January 24, 2012
The Jets Running game
Is similar to the runs we used under Jason:
Power, Lead Draw, the Flip 90 play (fake the FB dive, pitch to the RB), Iso, Dive, Off Tackle.
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
To improve this team ...
we need to improve both lines. A better o-line will make the skill players better. A better d-line, that can pressure the QB, will make our secondary much better. Hard to say, but the Giants are a good example.
eightball - January 23, 2012
Giants good example on defensive side
and the 49ers on the other side. Dallas has ignored both sides of the ball in terms of the forces in the trenches. Bad Jerry.
Iowacowboy - January 24, 2012
I'm no Jerry fan
but the OL hasn’t been ignored exactly. Drafted O-lineman have gone bust, to Det, Free, bust, bust, T. Smith. .333 is a great batting average in baseball, but you pay the piper if you’re talking drafting in the first 4 rounds.
Strictly D-line, you’re spot-on, since hitting late on Ratliff and drafting Spears, I think there’s only been Hatcher in the 3rd one year, they’ve been trying to mine value with Brent, Lissemore, etc. I think Bowen was really about to step up for us this year, then he got the offer he couldn’t refuse from the godfather of munchkin-land.
Cowtoys - January 24, 2012
The o-line is pretty close to having the talent, but not the secondary
Tyron Smith, a healthy Free, signing Nicks or drafting DeCastro and all the project picks from last year should yield a decent starter. We all know the secondary needs a CB, safety, though some pressure from the d-line would help.
Keep in mind that other teams are also improving via the draft. If we draft strictly on need we’ll never catch up. We gotta fill in needs in FA and go BPA in the draft.
ScottB1985 - January 23, 2012
I can't believe I'm saying this...
But when I look at the 49ers defense, it’s more than just pressure from the d-line. It’s more than just linebackers making plays. It’s more than just a secondary that can cover. They’re hitting out there. They have a plan. They’re all doing their jobs. Do they have a star? I guess Willis. They have some really good players. A lot of them. But they’re not a defense of superstars. They’re just a defense executing a very good game plan. They don’t have any real weaknesses. They’re not too tricky. They just play. They beat their man. Eli was blasted into the stone age Sunday. He really didn’t do much in the 2nd half. The 49ers had a punt returner that gave the Giants 10 points.
Let’s start with some key pieces on defense, gather up a great plan, and not muck it up. A few key players can make some of our JAGs better. Most of all, this defense needs to understand what they’re doing out there, and have the discipline to do it on every play.
White Wolf - January 23, 2012
I agree with every word.
Fernie67 - January 23, 2012
Me too
But I do think that Justin Smith and Aldon Smith could be considered star players. As much as I hate that team, I love watching them play defense.
sportsfanatic21 - January 24, 2012
yup
Rohpuri - January 23, 2012 via mobile
I was impressed with the way the 49ers tackled
The do not give up any extra yards. Ball carriers typically go backwards. I think that is the way it is supposed to be. I am not sure though because I have been watching our team pull other players down by their jersey’s or diving at their ankles.
eightball - January 23, 2012
Hahaha,
Dallas’ worst offender, Terence Newman, hopefully has made his last business decision for us.
Luke. - January 25, 2012
Shocked...
What, you don’t like our defensive players slapping guys like Brandon Jacobs on the butt/helmet and helping them up after a play?
Phillyboijr - January 23, 2012
Lol
Rohpuri - January 23, 2012
I am sure ...
… they would hate to pay a fine for unnecessary roughness. I would love to see one of our players zero in and plant someone.
eightball - January 23, 2012
You don't like the secondary throwing hands up in disgust and confusion?
Blasphemy!
Rohpuri - January 23, 2012
+1
I agree especially in the game against New Orleans, I remember saying to my pops that these guys are hitting. I haven’t seen defensive play like that in a while, they were always around the ball and not giving up much YAC. But to me it does start with the line (in the trenches) if your front is playing well it frees up the linebackers to roam, hit running backs in the lane and blitz the QB every now and then. I think our defense could be improved significantly with a true NT to push the pocket, anyone see Wilfork collapse the pocket on Flacco, not saying we should expect someone like that, but someone who could at least push the pocket to limit QB’s from stepping up on us and occupy centers and guards on the running plays. Also we can then move Ratliff back to DE although he has been good playing out of position all this time I think he could be more effective on the end. We also need some DB help though.
DCB* - January 24, 2012
That's why Garrett wanted their DC first, but when he decided to reunite with Harbaugh.... Garrett went for Rob Ryan
dcsince77 - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Garrett wanted Fangio as the Boys DC?
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
According to a report on ESPN.
Check the link here.
Tom Ryle - January 24, 2012
I'd put 49er Justin Smith on the star list for sure.
He’s a been an absolute force on their Dline for years. If we had a 3-4 DE like that our front 7 would be looking a whole lot better.
Luke. - January 25, 2012
How talented are the Cowboys you ask?
Offensive skill positions- very talented
O-line- not so much (except for Tron and I think Free can do well at RT; also I have faith that one of Arkin/Nagy will develop into a solid lineman, probably Arkin at G)
Defense- not very talented except for Ware, Jenkins, Ratliff, Bruce Lee, and (don’t hate me for this) Spencer. Wouldn’t mind getting rid of anybody else on that D. I like Spencer but I wouldn’t mind if we lost him as long as we could replace him.
Nets2410 - January 23, 2012
What has Carter proven ?
football mensa - January 24, 2012
He Had A Few
plays on special teams.
Iowacowboy - January 24, 2012
Nope, hasn't proven anything
but the whole “first round talent fallen to the second because of injury” makes us hope that we’ll see something this next year. We’ll see.
boyman - January 24, 2012
Off topic but....
We can officially stop using probowls as a measure for how good a player is.
Cam Newton has been named as a probowl replacement. The 15th rated passer in the league.
What a joke.
just4fun - January 23, 2012
haha ya i posted a fanshot about that
over Romo and Stafford? it’s all a popularity contest
Nets2410 - January 23, 2012
Maybe Romo and Stafford were asked and didn't want to play.
football mensa - January 25, 2012
Aiikman sucked as a rookie
Peyton Manning as a rookie had a similar passing stats to Cam Newton
Rohpuri - January 23, 2012
Did they make the Pro Bowl?
Fernie67 - January 24, 2012
No the 4 AFC QBs in the 1998 Pro Bowl
John Elway, Warren Moon, Mark Brunell, Drew Bledsoe.
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Best Example - Gurode
I think opposing teams voted for Gurode just to keep him on the Cowboys
Iowacowboy - January 24, 2012
That would be cold blooded
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
bruce carter..
Is not sean lee. And we have no idea of knowing what he will be he hardly saw the field. I think its to earlie to say if he will be a beast or not. But thinking he could have a sean lee season is a little much. Only reason I think lee had the season he did is bc the other ilb were garbage. But I hope carter could be a stud and we have 2 ILB like the 49ers have willis and bowman
cjs.93 - January 23, 2012 via mobile
I think Lee
would have had a great season no matter who was playing back there along side him. Lee is a Pro Bowl LB for years to come….barring injury…..
CoachGary - January 24, 2012
Lee Is Special
he brings the brains and the brawn. In that order, which is fine. I really love that guy; he is best player on the Cowboys not named Ware or Romo.
Iowacowboy - January 24, 2012
Special. I wouldn't go that far.
I think we overestimate how good he is since the Cowboys ILB have been basically non existent since we went to a 3-4.
For some reason the Cowboys have gone with the small smart slow guy in the middle of this defense since they switched.
Zach Thomas, Brookings and now Lee.
Which I just don’t understand.
Sharksbreath - January 24, 2012
Lee is neither small nor slow. Smart? Absolutely.
sportsfanatic21 - January 24, 2012
You wouldn't because you don't know any better...Lee is definitely a special player
and Lee definitely isn’t slow
Terry - January 24, 2012
Lee isn't Willis or Bowman.
So I guess we have to hope Carter is one of them.
Sharksbreath - January 24, 2012
You advocate based on.......
size and speed in one post and then turn right around and use Willis and Bowman as your examples. Lee is right in there with them.
(Granted these are LISTED sizes)
Sean Lee: 6’2", 245(Current Date, Not Combine)
Combine numbers: 4.80 40-Yard Dash, Bench Press 24, Vertical 37.5, Broad Jump 120
Patrick Willis: 6’1", 240(Current Date, Not Combine)
Combine Numbers: 4.51 40-Yard Dash, Bench Press 22, Vertical 39.0, Broad Jump 119
NaVorro Bowman: 6’0", 242(Current Date, Not Combine)
Combine Numbers: 4.77 40-Yard Dash, Bench Press 26, Vertical 29.5, Broad Jump 115
Hindsight is always 20/20. You do realize that Bowman was passed over 90 times right? Now Willis just has freak speed for ILB.
Jace M - January 24, 2012
Not sure what numbers you're using for Lee.
As far as I can tell his Combine 40 was 4.71 and his Pro Day 40 was 4.60
Where are you getting 4.80 from?
Luke. - January 25, 2012
ESPN.com-NFL Draft Tracker, under Combine
Just looked up under others right now……
nfldraftdayinsider.com: 4.76
nfldraftscout.com: 4.71
scout.com: 4.72
I do like your numbers better though. Just not sure whose to believe. Your numbers make my case better though.
Jace M - January 25, 2012
Lee is better than Bowman
Terry - January 24, 2012
Mario Williams, Michael Griffin, and a center.
Lissyyyyy - January 24, 2012
If Mqrio doesnt re-sign with Houston
He will go to a 4-3 team
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
Mario*
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
I think he fits
in nicely here because of Garretts love of the strech play in the running game. We are going to more athletic Offensive linemen and Williams could definately be here if JJ wants to spend the money, because I think Garrett would love to have him.
CoachGary - January 24, 2012
Oops, I was thinking
about Meyers from Houston, but I would rather have Ryan Kalil from the Panthers instead.
CoachGary - January 24, 2012
That would be a nice haul!!
NVCowboy4Life - January 24, 2012
Need a center
Next to OT is the most important position on an offensive line and probably one of the most important on an entire team. Probably #3 behind QB and OT…
ProBowlFactory - January 24, 2012
I want us to sign
Ryan Kalil from the Panthers. He is only 25 and he is the best out there in FA….IMHO!
I hope we get him in Free Agency and then DeCastro in the Draft!
Now, if Jerry could only find a way to get Nicks as well, I would be estatic!!!!!!!!!!!!
CoachGary - January 24, 2012
Are you really only fixing the O-line?
Because part of the point of having so many holes is you have to prioritize. And now that we have two studs at guards and a lot of young guys (Arkin, Nagy, Kowalski) to churn in the interior, I’d worry more about the D-line.
Not saying O-line isn’t important; it definitely deserves one draft pick (1st 4 rounds) and one FA acquisition. But to spend essentially all our FA money, AND our 1st round pick, AND another draft pick on the O-line feels like overkill to me.
boyman - January 24, 2012
Kalil signed for 6/49 million August of 2011.
According to Wikipedia.
Nickthegrip - January 24, 2012
needs
interior O-line
everywhere on D-line
corner
safety
pass rushing OLB
Instead of falling in love with particular players, they need to formulate a plan on which positions are valued more in free agency vs the draft and how to allocate resources. Also, at which positions are rookies more likely to make an impact?
kumizi - January 24, 2012
In our glory days we had Stepnowski
we haven’t had a good C since then.I don’t care if Geroude went to the pro bowl or not.He didn’t give us the quality play we need.
Also we have to find a backup QB.Unless we are real lucky it will probably be one of our FAs.
So many holes, so little time and money.
TCB Orange Dino - January 24, 2012
Just focus on both lines and secondary, we’re set when it’s skill players.
Kevin L - January 24, 2012
+1
boyman - January 24, 2012
a few good men
If we could find elite piece in free agency. Then 2 or 3 more in the draft, we will be better. Carter should be an upgrade. Murray for the year. May be og from new Orleans. An edge rusher. A CB. It’s already better.
jdg4660 - January 24, 2012 via mobile
a few good men
If we could find elite piece in free agency. Then 2 or 3 more in the draft, we will be better. Carter should be an upgrade. Murray for the year. May be og from new Orleans. An edge rusher. A CB. It’s already better.
jdg4660 - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Penalties
Who is going to coach the Cowboys to stop making soo many penalties. You know your coach is no good when the team makes so many penalties. Also, I hope all you Cowboys were watching the playoffs this year and noticed as I did the stark contrasts between your play and the play of these players. Very few penalties…I hate a sloppy team!! And you will never win with mental errors. This goes for you too Markus DeWare!!
noFBexpert7 - January 24, 2012
Cowboys need 5-6 new starters
at center, guard, DE, OLB, CB and safety. If Spencer is re-signed, then only 5. Newman and Elam have to be replaced as does Coleman, Costa and either guard, Holland or Kosier. Costa, Nagy and Arkin are really backups.
We get those starters as well as some legit backups at tackle, qb, ILB, and some good ST players then we can say this team is talented enough.
As currently constructed, it can’t win a SB no matter how good the skill position players are.
Terry - January 24, 2012
i wouldn't count Costa out as a starting Guard if they find a better Center
DCNation73 - January 24, 2012
I would, he wouldn't be any better at guard than at center
Gets pushed around way too much
Terry - January 24, 2012
4-3 Defense
Tom Landry invented the 4-3 defense. It is blasphemy for the Cowboys to run anything else, even though he invented it as the Giants defensive coordinator. If David DeCastro isn’t available, take Luke Kuechly. The Cowboys then got a monster linebacker core along with Sean Lee and Bruce Carter.
Mighty Blue Star - January 24, 2012
Right on. Let's run the Flex too, despite it being outmoded. Anything less would be blasphemy
Seanrude - January 24, 2012
and the OL standing up on shifts as well...that was pretty cool back in the day
Terry - January 24, 2012
That was cool! It was a Cowboys trademark as much as the star itself.
staubachfan - January 24, 2012
I think you missed some sarcasm.
Altho with Terry it IS hard to tell
Realist Larry - January 24, 2012
It's not outmoded, no one understands it enough to teach it.
DIRE WOLF - January 24, 2012
That's why in a copycat NFL nobody copied it.
DIRE WOLF - January 24, 2012
In a passing league, the flex is outmoded
Seanrude - January 24, 2012
actually it started becoming outmoded in the 80s
Terry - January 24, 2012
Exactly, as more and more teams started passing on what were traditionally 'rushing' downs
Seanrude - January 24, 2012
Dallas considered switching to 3-4 in the 1980s
The defensive players wanted to do it. Landry was against it. He ws set in his ways and that cost Dallas in the later part of the decade.
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
like a 3-4 would have made a difference in those years!
Realist Larry - January 24, 2012
Two pro bowlers! Enough said...
This is not a talented team and never will be with a clown running the team. This team had an extremely easy schedule this year and was one of the healthiest teams in the league when evaluating games missed by starters. Next year the team will be lucky to win 9 games and will not make the playoffs.
jerry_jones_killed_our_cowboys - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Pro Bowl
A Quarterback with an 84.5 QB Rating, 21 TDs, and 17 Ints was just named to the Pro Bowl for this year. Nine guys had better QB ratings than him and better TD/INT ratios. Thats what the Pro Bowl means anymore. God that 92 Dallas defense absolutely sucked, they had no one on that defense voted to the Pro Bowl. This team is not as talented as we have been lead to believe though. Just disagreeing with your use of Pro Bowl players as an evaluator.
Jace M - January 24, 2012
Fans wanted to see the rookie QB from Carolina who had the best rookie season statistically. His rookie season was better than Manning-Archie, Peyton, or Eli
Romo put up Pro Bowl #s but ppl weren’t going to vote for him who weren’t Cowboys fans, and kost of his NfL peers think he’s overratwd anyway, as evidenced by the players poll. Romo’s between a rock amd a hard place, underr appreciated by his fans, as well as the rst of the NFL.
If Romo and the Boys make the playoffs nexr year, he’ll make the pro bowl.
Newton making the Pro Bowl is more an example of the recency effect. Fans got excited by the wayNewton played as a rookie. Stop hating on Cam Newton. It’s not an insult to Tony Romo to say Cam Newton had an exceptional rookie season.
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
Nowhere in my post did I hate on Cam.
I quite liked watching the guy play. Where you got that I was hating on Cam, I have no clue. I simply stated his passing numbers. A little touchy, no?
P.S., I thought Rookie of the Year Award was awarded for best rookie. I suppose it happens though in other ways. There are guys that get it for lifetime achievement awards even if they’ve had a bad year.
Jace M - January 25, 2012
Oh and where did you think it had anything to do with Romo?
Matthew Stafford——-97.2 QB Rating, 5038 yds, 41 TDs, 16 Ints
That’s who I think earned it. And it has nothing to do with being a fan of his.
Jace M - January 25, 2012
Newton had 35 total TDs
Baked Potato Soup - January 24, 2012
Sorry, didn't take into.....
consideration rushing TD’s. Should have.
Jace M - January 25, 2012
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