First of all, all of the elite, NFL tough-as-hell, 3-4 Defenses (
Steelers,
Ravens,
Patriots) have a mammoth NT to push the pocket (to allow their Outside LBers to get to the QB or to allow their DE’s to get to the QB if he steps up into the pocket or slides left or right as Eli and Brady and Rogers and Brees always do) and to stop middle draws (which is our weak spot since teams are successfully converting 3rd& Short, 1st and Goal, and gashing us up-the-middle for 4-6yds on 1st down)!!!
Jerrah ‘The Fool’ Jones has it in his power again (this year) to either sign or draft a mammoth NT but he’s too dumb (like Michael Jordan as GM of the NBA Bobcats) to make it happen. His comments ‘speak’ for themselves!!! He can easily sign Free Agent, Pro-Bowl, NT
Paul Soliai (who’s 6’4"& 355 lbs) from the
Dolphins. This FA signing would be a ‘watershed moment’ much like trading for Charles Haley in the early years of our Super Bowl runs!!! Signing Soliai would improve our Pash Rush, Run Defense, and Secondary (who would NOW a fierce Pash Rush to help Rob Ryan and his DBs to anticipate HOT routes and HOT throws)!!!
Jerrah "The Fool" Jones could then go into the DRAFT and get us another stud OT or OG in the 1st Rd, a stud CB in the 2nd RD (who could compete with DB
Mario Butler for a starting spot either at Right CB or Nickel CB if Scandrick takes T-New’s old spot), and a stud RB in the 3rd Rd (who could move into the starting lineup if Demarco Murray goes down again…..and go review RB T. Ganaway’s size, speed, and incredible stats of 21 rushing TDs and 1,547 rushing yds last year)!!!
Sounds easy……but…..NOT….if your name is Jerrah Jones!!!!
Another user-created commentary provided by a BTB reader.
dude seriously
First off if this guy is so good he isn’t going to come cheap.
Second Off unless Dallas fixes the Secondary then you will simply see teams go 3 step drop then pass, which completely negates even the best pass rush.
Third Off the Enter button is your friend.
Fourth you could have put this in any one of numerous draft threads(which you already have) there was no need to make yet Another fanpost about it….
I am Ironman!!! - February 21, 2012
If you fix the pass rush
that in turn makes the secondary better. We dont need first round CB’s all around to be a real good defense.. ie., the Giants. Fix the darn pass rush and that will help with alot of what this teams problems are right now.
Boyzfan94 - February 21, 2012
HOLD ON THERE GUY
Giants DBs drafted in the first round are as follows:
Prince Amukamara
Aaron Ross
Kenny Phillips
Antrel Rolle
2nd rounders:
Deon Grant
Terrell Thomas
Corey Webster
Dallas first rounders:
Newman
Jenkins
I believe sensi and scandrick were 5th rounders and everybody else is below that and most likely an UDFA.
Perhaps we do need some legit talent in the secondary, buddy.
DavidLaFleur - February 24, 2012
I AM SERIOUS.....
First of all….rookie, Jerrah and staff need to wake up and get a damn mammoth NT…either Soliai or in THS DRAFT for the reasons mentioned….period….end of sentence.
Secondly….rookie, 3-step drops (pass plays) by opposing QBs are NOT killing us. That being said, a fierce Pass Rush would allow Rob Ryan to make defensive calls anticipating those 3-step drop pass plays (which opposing teams would HAVE to use to counter a fierce pass rush) which would result in more ‘picks’ and earlier hits on the WR would break up more passes or cause fumbles!!!
Thirdly, have YOU ever played contact Football and coached at any level….even peewee??
Pacerman - February 21, 2012
actually yes I have played Football
Though it was many moons ago
a “mammoth NT” isn’t going to help Dallas’s Pass rush…..
the reason those 3 step drops aren’t killing us is because teams know that thay don’t have to use them…you block Ratliff and Ware, and you can go 5-7 step drops all day…. the idea behind a good pass rush is to force teams to go to those 3 step drops which allows your secondary to play press coverage which in turn disrupts those type of throws, which thus allows your pass rush to get to the QB….
Given that Dallas had a top ten pass rush in terms of sacks, the next step would to be get a secondary that can actually cover a WR for 3-4 secs…..which in turn would allow our Pass rush to get to the QB with more frequency….
it is a symbiotic relationship Pacer..a good Secondary can make your pass rush look better(see Jets and Philly)
a great pass rush can make your Secondary look better(see Giants)
If a team is in the top ten in terms of Sacks, yet is still in the bottom of the league in terms of Pass Defense, which is area of the relationship isn’t doing is job?….I await your response
I am Ironman!!! - February 21, 2012
Here's my response.....
You obviously don’t understand YET (as does Jerrah) what an elite NT brings to an elite 3-4 Defense….especially a 2-gap NT like Soliai nor the advantages of moving RAT to a DE spot to NOT only get single blocking vs double and triple teams; i.e. C & OG & RB, but to also be in position for when the QB steps up and slides right or left.
You also must NOT have seen the big chunks of yards given up on middle running plays on 1st down or the way-to-easy conversions on 3rd&short or 1st& goal or even goaline sneeks against the Giants and Eagles and Patriots and other elite NFL teams with a big stud RB for the past few YEARS??? It’s been ugly and will continue to be ugly until Jerrah fixes this problem. I don’t think most of you cowboy fans in texas understand this concept because you’re all still wanting a repeat of the same or ya’ll think an elite CB or DE will fix your problem.
Most OCs are NOT stupid and they all know that they can score on Dallas by being physical in their own Run game and in their Run Defense. Once they catch us having to bring an extra man into the box to help stop the middle or OT runs or we show blitz on passing downs, they hit us over the top with with the pass. There will always a weak-spot in the secondary if your Defense is soft or weak in the middle of the Defensive Line. You can’t sign 3 elite CBs or have 2 elite Safeties in your Secondary.
I’m not really impressed with the Giants or Dolphins or Patriots secondary but their front seven is a tough bunch and their NT’s are top-notch which raises the play of everyone else. NT Soliai was franchised last year despite whatever ignorant scouting report that exists on him. D. Poe will be snatched up this year NLT 2d RD for the same reason. If we whiff on signing Soliai, Jerrah had better have his sights on drafting Poe (although he’s still basically a crap shoot and Soliai is an established player with known results, i.e. Pro-Bowler!!! By signing Soliai, Jerrah can further improve his Pass Rush….drastically improve his Rush Defense….and help the Secondary in a intangible way.
Come DRaFT night, Jerrah is in perfect position to grab his stud OL, stud CB, and stud RB to provide the necessary depth to finally COMPETE in December and possibly win the whole damn thing as a Wild Card a la the Giants if they don’t win the Division!!! I can see this happening in one year if he’s proactive instead of constantly being reactive.
Pacerman - February 21, 2012
I AM A BILLIONARE......
I did type it in all caps so it must be true…..all joking aside
IM was just giving a constructive advice on the look of the piece (the lack of spacing does make it difficult to read) and why he does not agree with your discussion point, no need to get excited over it.
the “rookie” thing is kind not needed, dont ya think
btw I do think we need a NT, but part of that is moving Rat to where he should be playing at DE. But if you cant get a cheap one in FA, they we will have to wait and see if one falls to us in the draft
BigBad Joe - February 21, 2012
You do realize that Soliai ahd ZERO sacks in 2011 right? He may push the middle
and improve the ruin defense, but it would be FAR from a watershed signing. Here is a scouting report I found on him.
A real run-stopper up the middle and can occupy more than one blocker. His speed and overall athleticism are exceptional for a guy with his bulk. A converted guard who’s blessed with rare size and strength for a defensive tackle.
Flaws
Somewhat a one-dimensional defender. Could improve against the pass with better instincts. Took some time to fully get his game together at the top level. I dont get where you see the “WATERSHED” moment.
Coakey - February 21, 2012
Read my reply to Ironman......IT WOULD BE A WATERSHED MOMENT....if Jerrah doesn't HYPED IT UP .....
Like he’s the SMARTEST man west of the Mississippi!!!
Pacerman - February 21, 2012
O and BTW the "Jerrah" stuff is really stupid and annoying
Coakey - February 21, 2012
It really is
BrickTop - February 21, 2012 via mobile
That's Jerry's nickname to everyone OUTSIDE of TEXAS....my man!!!
Among other names like dumbest GM on the planet or Michael Jordan GM clone or vice versa….LOL!!! Go back to the early 1990’s….it was Jimmy Johnson calling the shots on the players that he wanted…..Jerrah only got involved AFTER JJ was fired. Jerrah’s tremedous EGO is what made the Cowboys the ‘laughing stock’ of the NFL for 16yrs!!! YOu may NOT want to admit it but we all know better….up North!!!!
Pacerman - February 21, 2012
Yeah...
The “Jerrah” and “The Fool” stuff is annoying to say the least. Let’s focus the analysis, contributions, and comments on the contents and leave out the other BS…
And I do like the idea of a big agile NT…maybe in the 3rd or 4th. We need OG/C and S/CB in the 1st two rounds. Don’t care to invest big bucks on Soliai though…too expensive for what he brings.
Pasipple - February 21, 2012
Until Jerrah proves otherwise.....the nicknames will stick!!!!!
Pacerman - February 21, 2012
I like the fact you said expensive.
You can’t pay a free agent nt cause we have Ratliff eating up so much money in the middle.of the line. There has to be a balance of the amount of money each group can get you know say 30 million a year on d line blah blah blah. So paying Ratliff top money means we only draft a nt end of story.
Sado44 - February 28, 2012 via Android app
I couldn't agree with you more about Jerruh but not sure if the named DTs will bring that
type of impace. A dominant front-7 is an awesome force, like a carrier fleet in your back yard. Either a dominant DT or DE would bring the Boy’z front-7 to new heights. Problem is Jerruh thinks he’s a football man again, scouting news prospects and talking to college coaches and recruiter. Now he thinks the front 7 are an elite bunch. In April I have to watch the humilating draft day comedy as Jerruh trades down then trades up because that’s what makes him wake up in the morning.
Is it loss on Jerruh that he couldn’t land a football job except to buy his way in? His rose colored glasses
sees All-Pro potential in every low round draft pick, free agent and aging veteran has destroy this team.
I’m sorry my football brethren but after discovering the Cowboys in 1977, this is the lowest point of my fanship. The last two years’ All Hype team have deflated any optimism going into the new season. What’s the one commonality of all those losing and pathetic seasons between 1995 and 2011? Jerruh Jones.
bresson - February 21, 2012
I agree that we need a true NT
and I think the staff is finally realizing that now. Its not going to solve our pass rush problems, but its a start. What this team really needs is 2 solid pass rushing DE’s and a OLB to make this really go IMO. Alot of parts I know, the reason I think this team is 2 or 3 years away from really contending.
Boyzfan94 - February 21, 2012
After 8 years the Dallas f.o. realizes we need a big nt.
SMH
football mensa - February 22, 2012
I agree we need....
More pressure from up front, particularly on early downs. There are a few candidates I would like to see added. But, it’s gonna take even more than that! As an example, recall the TD pass that Mario Manningham dropped on a little sideline route in I believe the 2nd Giants game. Took less than 2 seconds for Manningham to have a rather sizeable seam for Eli. Even safety help was a good 10 yds from decent position. Yep, gonna take a bit more than DL.
stargazer33 - February 21, 2012
Manningham's sizeable lead was because .........
The GINTS have a great running game that our anemic Cowoys Defense HAS to respect on running downs (and passing downs unfortunately)!!! Eli has become as good as his brother Peyton on play-action passes (and managing plays and audibles). It wouldn’t take Manningham long to get any sizeable lead IF our Free and/or Strong Safety has to constantly stay near the freakin box because we’re getting gashed by Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw. Since our Free Safety (Gerald Sensabaugh) doesn’t have the elite speed (of the Steelers Troy Polamalu) and had to constantly provide ‘help’ to our Inside Linebackers, Eli had basically the entire field to at HIS disposal and Eli could and did easily ‘looked off’ Sensabaugh (and Elam) to make any throw that his OC called or Eli ‘audibled’ to !!!!
I still believe HAS a great opportunity to make a couple of moves in Free Agency and (especially in the Draft) to really IMPACT this team in the right way for the upcoming 2010 season. Last year, we were $20M over the CAP and this year we’re $20M under the cap. Jerrah can’t afford to miss on a NT (IMHO) in the Draft so he must go after big stud free agent ProBowler NT Soliai. In the draft with pick#14, he has a choice of going stud OT or OG or stud DE or OLB!!! Either pick automatically IMPROVES our team although our biggest need (after NT) should probably be OL (OT or OG) unless OT David Arkin or OG Nagy have made dramatic improvements to their body in the off-season!!! And then he can pick his choice of CB AND RB for depth purposes because we can MUST have quality depth at both of these positions (especially RB) to avoid the disastrous repeat of the past few years!!!!
Pacerman - February 21, 2012
"The GINTS have a great running game"
Is this the same Giants running game that was dead last in the league?
http://espn.go.com/nfl/statistics/team/_/stat/rushing
BuckyWaters - February 21, 2012
Our safety was back....
3 steps, 2 seconds. Wide open.
stargazer33 - February 21, 2012
Correction
Eli may have been in shotgun on that play….still, 2 seconds.
stargazer33 - February 21, 2012
this is garbage
and i’m not pro jerry, he’s the only thing preventing this organization from greatness, but again this is garbage
ratware - February 21, 2012
One Man's Garbage is another man's TREASURE......i've addressed most of our glaring needs...
Feel FREE to articulate your own vision…..we’re ALL waiting with bells on…
Pacerman - February 21, 2012
If you're waiting with bells on.....
They wouldn’t be making any noise.
BuckyWaters - February 21, 2012
The NT in the 3-4 is primarily to plug the middle and stuff the run.
Does very little in passing downs.But you have to have a big,strong body at NT for the 3-4 scheme to work.
Crimsoncaller - February 21, 2012
at first I was unsure about your stance,
But given the plethora of run-on sentences, refusal to divide seperate thoughts with paragraphs, and of course PLACING SUPER IMPORTANT WORDS IN ALL CAPS, you must be onto something.
matt575 - February 22, 2012 via mobile
Jeez....cowboys fans are NOT only sensitive but SLOW....
The entire point WAS that we need a mammoth 2-gap NT so RAT can be moved to DE. If you don’t see HOW our Rush Defense and Pass Rush improves with a mammoth NT, you’re as HOPELESS as Jerrah and Stephen. Even the Secondary gets a benefit because opposing QBs can’t hold the ball as long and can’t step up into the pocket and sliding right or left without getting sack by RAT or the other DEs. If they stay at their 5-step or 7-step drop zone, then WARE and Spence will sack or strip the ball. I’d say that’s alot more than just ‘plugging the middle and stuff the run’.
Jeez, you guys are dumber than hell in Texas. Is this better for you….Matt575…and Crimsoncaller…..LOL!!!
Pacerman - February 22, 2012
If you want a more mature response to your stance you need to take some notes from the other fanpost writers. Or just writers in general.
1. No need to call names.
2. Use proper sentence structure, that includes capitals!
3. Use proper composition.
4. Above apply to your title too.
5. Expand your topics, so far all your post are “Jerrys a fool blah blah”
6. Read this and memorize it. There will be a test tomorrow.
http://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2011/2/4/1969818/btb-101-extended-guide-to-creating-killer-fanposts
thebigham - February 22, 2012
Here's my excuse.....LOL!!!
1. I normally write my posts with paragraphs to expound on each of my points, however, I had changed my settings to HTML and I could NOT get my Post to stay in paragraph format (for whatever reason).
2. And, I only ‘call names’ when insulted first… sorry…only human!!!
3. I’m blasting Jerrah because I STILL haven’t forgave him for FIRING Coach Tom Landry and Coach Jimmy Johnson (especially trying to take credit for Coach Johnson’s incredible personnel decisions and coaching prowess). Later, when Jerrah announced that he was assuming operational control as GM, he proved how totally inept he really was as a GM. What is it, no playoff wins in the PAST 16 YEARS along with mediocre regular season records except for our 2007 season (13-3) when he was beaten by 3rd yr Pro….Eli Manning!!! Therefore, I don’t see how real Texans haven’t run this (Arkansas) carpet-bagger outta town. New Yorkers or Philadephians would have forced this bum to sell this storied Franchise back in 1998 (when it was obvious that he was NO football GM).
4-6. And shove your own insults and TEST where the sun don’t shine.
Pacerman - February 22, 2012
Honestly you could "tone it down" a hair
Nobody is insulting you, yet you feel the need to call everyone “slow”. Just because someone doesn’t agree with you doesn’t mean that. It means they have a different viewpoint. Nothing wrong with that. That being said:
Your contention that Dallas Has to have a big NT isn’t really true as it has been pointed out that Dallas doesn’t run a “true 3-4” it is closer to a 4-3 which will be true as long as Ware is a Dallas Cowboy. To that end why take a player that isn’t a good fit for the style that we run? Another thing is Dallas Has a “wide body” already on the roster in Josh Brent who is 6-2 320(according to NFL.com)….Why should we bring in a player that is going to cost 3-4 million at least, when we have one on the roster that is making less than $500,000, and can provide everything that Solial would give?
One last point:
I would highly recommend reading the link that bigham provided, as it is full of really good information…
I am Ironman!!! - February 22, 2012
Pacerman no true Dallas fan likes the way Landry was let go.
However it was time for the ledgend to retire. He wouldn’t and Jerry had to do what he had to do. And just in case you didn’t notice I am not a real warm guy when it comes to Jerry.
No doubt he isn’t a real gm. I am as tired of it as you are. However if the firing of Landry is your orgin of anger it’s time to move on .
football mensa - February 22, 2012
To expand on that point
Jerry didn’t fire Landry, Bum would only sell the team if the new owner agreed to fire Landry. And it was time to move on.
Jimmy was leaving Dallas regardless what Jerry said. It was a pride thing, you can’t quit you are fired type thing.
thebigham - February 23, 2012
Jimmy admitted in the 1993 America's Game
That he had planned all along to leave the Cowboys after the 1993 season. He had a 5 year plan, and he fulfilled it. The controversy between him and Jerry Jones was probably a little manufactured because Jimmy was probably getting the itch to leave and needed his grand exit. If you don’t believe me, why these two men who were college teammates and roommates (if I’m not mistaken) still friends till today? Ironically, their former college coach, Barry Switzer became the head coach after Jimmy left.
Rohpuri - February 23, 2012
meant to use coincidentally instead of ironically
Rohpuri - February 23, 2012
Sorry to say this bro
but your article was poorly written, You can’t expect anyone to take you seriously when you write like that.
Antonio S - February 22, 2012
Pacerman
I get what you’re saying. However, the reason you’re not getting more reads, comments and recs:
1) The formatting of your posts needs to get better. It’s really difficult to follow. Spacing in key.
2) There’s nothing inherently different from this post and your other two posts.
3) While I find the Jerrah/Jerruh thing funny, I do think you need to stop the name calling/attacking of people willing to comment. They’re being nice enough to give you feedback, just cause there’s a difference of opinion doesn’t mean you need to lose civility in the discourse.
Rohpuri - February 22, 2012 via mobile
Sorry...I'm still venting
I’ve NEVER had time to write posts before nor really cared to. Since I’m JUST now having more time (in LIFE) to finally get on-line; i.e. no more Regular Army, Army Reserves, or other Govt job to worry about 12-15hrs per day, I’m trying to write stuff as fast as I can and then go back to whatever I’m working on at work (software testing) or home (when the wife whines about me spending ANY freakin time online)….the old bitty……LOL!!!!
Pacerman - February 22, 2012
Well if that is the case you should take my approach to fanposts.
You don’t have to write it out in one sitting. You can save it and comeback to it later. Also use the preview button. it is a great tool for seeing the issues that may come up in the HTML.
Lastly, I appreciate the passion, but when writing you have to put aside that. It can interfer with the point you are trying to make. Research your point, before and during the writing process. Case in point: During my Position Outlook Series I had as many as 4 Sites going at once so that I could bring the most Accurate information available at the time.
If you need some help with anything the FP writers here are more than Willing. I my self have had OCC help me with numerous projects, and the other FP writers are equally willing to help. Their Emails are in their Profiles, so if you need it, all you have to do is ask.
I am Ironman!!! - February 22, 2012
Ironman
gives good advice Pacerman. I second what he says above.
Tennessee_Jed - February 22, 2012
Well said Ironman
Rohpuri - February 22, 2012
Ironman....regarding your post about.....
“Your contention that Dallas Has to have a big NT isn’t really true as it has been pointed out that Dallas doesn’t run a "true 3-4" it is closer to a 4-3 which will be true as long as Ware is a Dallas Cowboy. To that end why take a player that isn’t a good fit for the style that we run? Another thing is Dallas Has a "wide body" already on the roster in Josh Brent who is 6-2 320(according to NFL.com)….Why should we bring in a player that is going to cost 3-4 million at least, when we have one on the roster that is making less than $500,000, and can provide everything that Solial would give?”
Most posters SHOULD totally disagree to this ludicrous statement that Dallas doesn’t run a ‘true’ 3-4 Defense. Their roster positions (size and weight) exactly FIT a TRUE 3-4 Defense EXCEPT for their crop of undersized NT’s on the roster (to include Josh Brent) unless he’s gained some additional ‘good’ weight because he got ‘tossed back’ pretty easily last year when double teamed on 3rd and short or goal-lineine defense..
Why do YOU think our middle Rush Defense (not to mention Pash Rush & Secondary) has been so freakin soft over the years? Because opposing QBs can easily step UP into the pocket and then slide left or right for that extra second or two? Until we find someone that can push the pocket like Paul Soliai (who’s 6’4" 355lbs).
There are ONLY a few of these studs NT’s around….hence….why they’re SO hard to find. Now, there IS a stud prototypical NT in this DRAFT named D. Poe who’s 6’5" & 350lbs that Jerrah should TARGET with Pick #14 if signing Soliai would be too costly to our Salary Cap!! Poe will NOT be there in the 2nd Rd but I doubt very very seriously that Jerrah would use Pick #14 on D. Poe. I think a real GM (Ravens or Patriots or Steelers) would pull the trigger on a stud NT because these guys don’t grow on trees and good ones IMPACT your Rush Defense, Pass Defense, and Secondary play.
Note: Even Alameda Ta’amu (another Samoan who’s 6’3" & 341lbs) may be gone before we pick in Rd 2. And both of these guys are unproven while Soliai is a Pro-bowler!!
Pacerman - February 23, 2012
Two names
James and Brooking
I’m working on a fan post that analyzes the last 10 years of the draft (just the first round). I’ll give you a little preview at what I discovered. Besides DEs, DTs have the highest “bust” rate (i.e., they don’t perform commensurate with their draft status). Put simply — like you, many GMs fall in love with the big defensive guys up front. As a result, they reach and take DTs and DEs much higher than where they should have gone.
Conn Cowboy - February 23, 2012
just to point out something
NO Dallas Doesn’t run a “true 3-4”, because 90% of the time Ware is rushing the passer….the objective of using a 3-4 is that you DON"T rush the SAME 4 People EVERY TIME.
The issue is that because Ware is SO good at it, you want him to rushing the passer as often as you can. To be clear on any given play here will be the “Pass Rushers”(I use that term liberally as you will see)
ROLB-Ware
RDE-HAtcher/Spears
NT-Ratliff
LDE-Coleman/Lissemore/Spencer
I put Spencer because on 3rd and long he moves to the LDE spot.
that is why I say Dallas doesn’t run a “true 3-4” because again with Ware,
A. you only want 4 man rush
and B. You want Ware rushing as much as possible.
Thus most of the Time you are going to be rushing the passer from the same positions/same people. I tried to show this in my “Dark Side of Talent” posts. The issue is that BEcause Ware is so good, you have Two Choices, use him as a Pass rusher and though that will increase your Passrush, it will decrease you ability to “Disguise” your Pass rush.
OR you can drop Ware more Often which Decreases your PAss rush, but increases your ability to “disgiuse” it….Given that Ware Pass rushed for almost 470+ times(and that is with sitting out ~60 snaps) out of ~600 I imagine that Ryan chose the first option.
So if the “4th Rusher” is basically Ware from either OLB position, Doesn’t that mean that basically Dallas runs a 4-3? rather than a 3-4?
What Dallas needs is a 4-3 DT that is athletic enough to play as a DE. A MArio Williams or Quinton Coples sized player.
Or they need to allow Spencer to move to the DE spot And get an actual OLB….
Either way that would force teams to “respect” that position as a pass rushing threat and block accordingly.
I am Ironman!!! - February 25, 2012
According to stats...
This is overall stats… Dallas ran a true 3-4 … 49.3% of the time in 2011. This they assume will drop a little as Rob has a full off-season. Still that’s better then half the time. I agree we need a true NT and have been saying that for three years. If you run a 3-4 your primary anchor is a BIG A$$ NT that can seal and push the middle giving the QB no pocket to step up into and forcing him into the lane for both your LOLB and ROLB to close on. That being said, do I agree that it is Soliai is the guy to fill that spot. I don’t know and I’m not willing to go on record to say I do, because I really haven’t watched enough of his play.
Rex Pfister - March 9, 2012
Let's rile you up some more ...
Let’s look at these so-called “elite” 3-4 defenses as compared to the Cowboys.
Sacks (Ranking):
Baltimore: 48 (3)
Dallas: 42 (T7)
Patriots: 40 (14)
Steelers: 35 (17)
Rush defense ranking (yards allowed)
Baltimore: 2
Dallas: 7
Pittsburgh: 8
Patriots: 17
Rush TDs allowed (ranking):
Pittsburgh: 7 (2)
Baltimore: 10 (T6)
Dallas: 10 (T6)
Patriots: 13 (19)
It seems to me that your observation that Dallas (as compared to these “elite” 3-4 defenses) is an inferior pass rushing team that cannot stop the run is full of holes.
Don’t get me wrong, it would be nice to get a big nose tackle. However, Dallas defense has been doing alright without one. People forget that Dallas was not a bad defense when compared to the rest of the league (i.e., there is a disconnect between perception and reality). They were an good defense that looked average because they had a terrible secondary. Dallas does have a very good front 7, which was let down by a bad secondary.
Much more easily said than done. You do know that although Dallas has some money to spend in free agency, they don’t have a lot of money? Besides, I’m not sure I want to pay a lot of money for a guy that has had 2 sacks in 68 NFL games. A NT capable of “collapsing” the pocket should have more than 2 sacks in his entire career.
Conn Cowboy - February 23, 2012
Jamal Williams one of the best NTs the past decade
In his first 71 games from 1998-2002, had 5.5 sacks
Rohpuri - February 23, 2012
Harrison and Woodley both missed a substantial amount of games last season.
No denying that the Steelers d is better than the Dallas d all things being equal.
So with Baltimore at 3 and Dallas tied for 7th does that mean the 4-3 is better ? LOL
Ro , Jammal beasted centers and guards. He made the Bolts d.
football mensa - February 23, 2012
Well, at least.....I'm glad that you AGREED with my MOST basic premise.....
That we SHOULD try to sign Pro-Bowler, NT, Paul Soliai because he IS a proven product (and relatively YOUNG at age 28) versus drafting unproven rookies D. Poe or Alameda Ta’amu . And, NO, pushing the pocket NTs do NOT normally have Sacks because their JOB is to CREATE sacks for others by pushing the pocket so the pass rushing DEs, pass rushing Outside LB’ers, and Secondary can make the BIG PLAYS!!!
Additionally, by signing Soliai, this would allow Dallas to draft the best available OL or DL prospect at Pick #14. I don’t SEE an elite CB with 4.3 speed that would be available at Pick #14 but I do SEE top-notch OTs/OGs that would have cost Jerrah a small fortune in previous drafts or what did cost him when he resigned Doug Free or what will cost him when Tyron Smith’s rookie deal is expired!!!
I also SEE pretty good CBs in the 2nd Rd that could compete with practice squad CB Mario Butler for a starting job either at T-New’s old spot or Scandrick’s spot (if he moves to T-New’s spot).
In Rd 3, I see a stud RB named Terrance Ganaway who’s 6’1" & 241lbs with speed and power. This RB ran for 1,547 yds and scored 21 TDs last year at Baylor. Need a first down on 3rd and short or TD on goal-line or someone to step-in if Demarco Murray goess down again……he’s your MAN!!!
In Rds 4-6, we grab the BPA to fill our KEY depth positions.
Again, thank you for making my EXACT point (for me) on my previous post.
Pacerman - February 23, 2012
Not so much ...
I didn’t say that we SHOULD try to sign a Pro-Bowler NT. Correct me if I’m wrong, hasn’t Ratcliff been to the Pro-Bowl and doesn’t he play NT?
If a NT can push the pocket then he should be able to get more than 2 sacks in a 68 game NFL career. I haven’t seen Soliai play, so I don’t what he really can do for the Cowboys. However, stopping the run or rushing the passer are not problems for Dallas. First and foremost, they need to protect Romo. A top-notch offensive line with give our RBs plenty of room to run and give Romo time to take shots downfield to Dez, Myles, and (hopefully) Laurent. Keep Romo upright and we have a top-5 offense — this is where I think you’ll see immediate returns for your free agency dollar. Second, they need to get some guys on the defensive backfield that will (i) make a play on the ball; (ii) hit somebody who has the ball; and (iii) be close enough to the WR that if they do catch the ball, they can do (ii) before the guy runs 10 yards down the field.
Frankly, based upon how teams over-reach for D-lineman, I would rather take the best available OL (i.e., DeCastro). This draft is deep in CBs so let’s get one in the 2nd or 3rd rounds.
As for drafting a RB in the 3rd round, it would be a collosal waste. Your 3rd rounder is the kind of guy you hope could mature into a starter in a year or two. We already have enough RBs on this team. Spend your 3rd round pick on a D-lineman or O-lineman.
hardly …..
Conn Cowboy - February 23, 2012
Ratliff no Ratcliff
football mensa - February 23, 2012
I think you really do still agree with me.....
RAT is a good player for us but he doesn’t have the prototypical NT body (weight especially) to be very effective on running downs…..especially 3rd and short or goal-line since double teams destroy him…..although at times he can SPLIT them…..especially when rushing the passer.
Quoting the Sun Sentiel: "Heading into Dec 18th’s game against Buffalo, the Dolphins Defense had held the past seven opponents to a 2.9 yards per carry average. THey held Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs to only 58 rushing yards for the Giants. Buffalo’s Fred Jackson managed 17 of Buffalo’s 41 rushing yards in a 35-8 loss the Bills suffered last month. Dallas’ DeMarco Murray was the hottest rookie runner, but he produced 87 yards.
Yes, they used the old Dallas strategy of rotating their Defensive LInemen but Paul Soliai was FRANCHISED last year for a reason….my man. He won’t be this year and Jerrah may get lucky and get him at a reasonable FA cost. In any event, I, too, want Jerrah to get the best OL (OT or OG) with the Pick #14 and then go CB in Rd 2.
Our basic disagreement is that you obviously underestimate the IMPACT of having two stud RBs on your roster (especially if your starter goes down). Felix Jones is NOT starter material as we found out the past three years. Drafting a stud RB like Terrance Ganaway will give Dallas our own version of Ahmad Bradshaw (Demarco Murray) and Brandon Jacobs (T. Ganaway) for years to come.
Pacerman - February 23, 2012
Not really ..
Why not? He has a career 5.1 yards/carry average. Those kinds of backs aren’t a dime a dozen.
FYI — the Giants had the WORST rushing attack in the entire league last year — comparing your hoped for running back duo to Bradshaw and Jacobs doesn’t help your case.
Another FYI — don’t make DeMarco out to be the next coming of Emmitt Smith just becase he had a good four game stretch against some putrid rush defenses.
Conn Cowboy - February 23, 2012
Sorry...you're unbelievably misguided and wrong again......
C’mon, we’ve all known that Felix is a situational player since college. He’s injury prone and will NEVER be anyone’s LEAD runningback. His stats are skewed as his your argument. Yes, he can take it to the house with his speed but the entire Defense knows that he’s getting the damn ball whenever he comes into the game!!!!
FYI—-The Giant’s rushing attack of Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw is dynamic and very physical. It’s what ALLOWS Eli the time and space to make the necessary big plays at key points in their biggest games. You obviously haven’t watched to many Giants football games to SEE the ‘oh crap’ look on the faces of the Defense knowing that they will have to deal with these two physical tough RBs for the entire game.
FYI—-We ALL agree that Demarco Murray is not Emmitt Smith but he’s smart, physical,savvy, and he finishes running plays like a stud RB is supposed to….. going forward!!! BUT….and a very big BUT……even YOU have to admit that Emmitt Smith had ‘MOOSE’ as his leading FB for most of his career (and we ALL saw what happened to Emmitt when Moose retired…..opposing Defenses beat him like a “stepchild gone bad”)!!
More importantly (and to the my point), we ALL saw how effective the Dallas running game can be with a good Lead FB again (Fiametta). Imagine RB Terrance Ganaway at 6’1" and 241lbs running behind a good lead FB…..jeez….that would be a beautiful sight to behold. And, Ganaway has crazy speed for a dude his size…….remember, this tough cat scored 21 TDs and rushed for 1,547 yds playing with RGIII. You give HIM a blocking FB and tougher OG blocking, this cat is taking the rock to the house……six points.
Imagine…..tag-teaming Demarco and Ganaway against our opponents….yes, some tough Defenses may figure out how to stop both of them (as the Dolphins used a 6-man DL rotation to keep them fresh all game long) but in most cases, Demarco and Ganaway would do EXACTLY what the Giants do to you…..control the ball, control the clock, score-score-score, and wear you down….into complete submission!!!!
Last point: If Jerrah picks a stud OL (OT or OG or Center) with Pick 14, our OL will be much more physical and younger with OG DeCastro or OT Mike Adams or other stud OL pick. If OT Arkin or OG/C Nagy or someone else can be our new left OG, the Boys may even draft Wisconsin (Lineman University) Center Peter Konz. to replace Costa if they (Coach Callahan) came to this conclusion after evaluating Costa and/or is current progression this offseason. If they get a good CB or Safety, we may great strides this year. But to me, the key is signing FA probowler NT Paul Soliai so the abovemention can all unfold.
Pacerman - February 24, 2012
Stop living in the 60s
No … he is a 3 down back that has played with 1 great back in his career (McFadden) and played with another back (MBIII) that was going to play a lot because of his contract.
I’ll give you Felix having some injuries, but you need to take a look at DeMarco’s injury history (FYI — it is worse)
Oh please … you are just making that up. If you are going to argue, at least try to work with some facts.
You have a terrible memory. The end of the triplets came because they didn’t have anybody to stretch the field. A constant refrain from the announcers were that the other team would stack the line with 8 or 9 defenders because they didn’t have anybody to go deep and stretch the field. As a result, Emmitt had no room to run and they blitzed the heck out of Troy.
Bleh … you must be one of those football purist that hasn’t realized that this is PASSING league. Denver led the league in rushing and were 25th in points scored. NYG’s were LAST in the league in rushing and won the Super Bowl. If you want to play losing football, go for your “4 yards and a cloud of dust” offense. Personally, I don’t want the Cowboys to have any part of that.
I see more Giants football games than you do. Jacobs is a one trick pony. Open a hole (in front of him) and let him get some steam and he’ll bowl over a guy or two. However, once he moves laterally, he is a dead duck. Bradshaw is a good RB, but good RBs are a dime a dozen. I also see you are one of those people that don’t understand that the defense isn’t particularly concerned about the prospects of hitting a 240/250lb running back. The D-line and linebackers have to deal with hitting (and being hit by) 300lb+ guards and tackles and 270/280lb TEs all game. Don’t tell me that a 240lb running scares them.
Another person who remembers the Giants of a few years ago, not the Giants of today. The Giants of today are a pass-first team. FYI – this how you win in this league – by passing the ball.
Conn Cowboy - February 24, 2012
You've been sipping too much Sage tea...my man....LOL!!!
You’re really funny….dude.
You are ONLY one of the few people on this planet that actually believe Felix is a 3-down RB. Felix had to bulkup last year just to prepare his body for the beating that he was about to receive and he didn’t last very long….did he….LOL!!!
And, WHO was their ‘field stretcher’ that teamed with Michael Irwin in the 1990’s?? And, don’t tell me Alvin Harper or Kevin Williams….LOL!!! The Boys were a ball-control team who used the POWER running game to setup their play-action passes. Are you sure that you’re really a Cowboy fan or just someone who dresses up as a cowboy on Ladies Night??
And, seriously dude, the END of the 1990’s Cowboys dynasty started with the ‘retirement’ of Jay Novacek in 1997. If you don’t know this Cowboy truism, your ENTIRE past-current-future arguments hold absolutley NO water with any real Cowboy fan and you should take the word COWBOY out of your freakin NAME because you’re a POSER!!!
And, yes, there are some elite passing attacks in the league but the current and past NFL Champions all had a balanced Offensive attack and they excelled in all phases of the game…..especially DEFENSE!!! Everyone knew (especially the Patriots) that the Giants were going to beat them in the SuperBowl (maybe except for you)!!! Some teams just have your number but, in reality, the Patriots Defense was not as physical or elite as in past years (probably due to the Salary Cap). Brady still had a shot even without a healthy TE Gronkowski. But, just like the SF game, the Giants pulled it out.
And, the funniest part……is your take that Brandon Jacobs is a one-trick PONY!!!! Jeez, how many times has he GASHED the Cowboys up the middle and/or bounced it outside to score a freakin TD with his crazy speed for a man who’s 6’4" & weighs 264lbs. There are probably 31 NFL Teams who’d LOVE to have Brandon Jacobs on their roster.
Alright dude….I’m done with you.
Pacerman - February 24, 2012
I'm glad you are done ...
I am tired of reading your mangling of facts. The Giants and patriots were some of the worst defenses in the league.
As for Jacobs, we will see if the Giants resign him and for how much. My guess is that they will let him walk.
Conn Cowboy - February 25, 2012
And, I'm tired of your inaccurate assessments......
In both the Tom Coughlin and Bill Bilicek eras, the Giants and Patriots will always put a very competitive Offense and Defense on the field. And it’s their overall physicality that matches Jason Garrett’s vision for the DallasCowboys (as was our 1990’s Cowboy teams). You obvious don’t respect Bill Belichik or Coughlin’s with your flippant comments nor do you really believe that any NFL team can win a Super Bowl using a ball-control type Offense. That’s your opinion but every winning Superbowl team had great balance in their pass and run game. The eventual winner was probably more due to their elite QB (Eli, Brady, Brees, & Big Ben) being able to make great throws to their big play WRs or TEs or RB on key drives late in the game to get the WIN!!!!
Furthermore, I never said that RB Brandon Jacobs is AS good right now as he was seven years ago when drafted in 2005. That being said, he’s still one helluva RB at age 29 (going on 30yrs old this year) and that any ball club missing this key ingredient (or depth) would love to have B. Jacobs at only 85% of his former ability.My simple points to you were that Jason Garrett’s vision of having a physical ball club starts with getting physical players on both sides of the ball.
Therefore, I will continue to state to you (and everyone else on this board) that it starts UP front on the OL and DL. Getting Free Agent NT Soliai to somehow sign with Dallas starts this process and drafting a stud OT or OG with Pick #14 gives the Boys a leg up on this process. Drafting a stud (i.e. very athletic & physical) DE, OLB, CB, or Safety in the 2nd Rd will also makes an immediate impact to our ball club. Yes, drafting a big workhorse stud (i.e. very athletic & physical) RB like Terrance Ganaway (6’1" 241lbs) in Rd 3 is probably reaching since he may be available in the 4th Rd (as was Brandon Jacobs in 2005).
My point was only that the Boys desperatelyneed two (physical) starting caliber RB’s on their roster. You don’t believe that Murray is physical at all but with a full off-season with our Strength Coach, he’ll be even better in the 2nd season. Tag-team him with Terrance Ganaway behind a bigger, tougher, younger, rebuilt OL and our Offense will return it’s 2007 form (when we scored 455 points (28.4/g) / 2nd of 32 in the NFL).
Pacerman - February 26, 2012
Whatever ... I thought you were done?
What is “very competitive”? These teams have not always been one of the best in both offense and defense since they’ve been coaching. If you are going to make that statement, back it up with some facts (that I can rip apart).
What do you mean by “overall physicality”? How does one define that? How do you measure that? How do you know Garrett’s specific vision for the Cowboys? Can you provide some quotes? As for the 90s’ Cowboys, they were a great team, but this is a different NFL today.
I’m sorry to let facts get in the way of your ranting, but I never disrespected Bill Belichick or Tom Coughlin. FYI – neither the Giants nor the Patriots are “ball-control type offenses.” They are both throwing teams – which is what this league has evolved into – a pass-oriented league. You could argue that the Patriots are a somewhat of a ball-control offense because Tom Brady is so accurate, but the Eli is nowhere close to being the type of QB that dinks and dunks his way down the field.
Hardly … what is it about a 32nd ranked run offense (i.e., what the Giants were this year) that you don’t get?
God … another person that parrots “announcer speak” and cannot think for himself. To the extent that Garrett said something to the effect that “we need to be more physical on both sides of the ball,” EVERY NEW COACH says the same thing after they get hired. It is nothing more than “code” (that the media and fans lap up every time) to say that “we need better players that hit/block/tackle harder.”
Unlikely when you are talking about the DE, OLB or CB. Those type of players rarely blossom their first year, and I’m just talking about the first rounders. You might get lucky with a safety. Regardless, what do you think Dallas has been doing – “oh look, there is a stud player … let’s not draft him … let’s draft this weakling over here”?
I didn’t say that – you did (again, sorry to let facts get in the way of you rant). I said he was injury prone and had a great 4 game stretch against putrid run defenses. To me, the jury is still out. Regardless, between Felix and Murray, the Cowboys don’t need any more running backs. Let me refer back to the point I made earlier – this is a PASSING league. Also, you don’t need a great running to win it all.
No … The 2007 Cowboys scored the 3rd best YPG team in the league with the 4th best YPG passing offense and the 17th best rushing attack. The Cowboys had the 2nd most receiving touchdowns and were tied for 10th in rushing touchdowns. The Cowboys kicked butt because Romo was able to chuck the ball at will. The Cowboys gave up 25 sacks that year. This year, the Cowboys gave up 39 sacks.
I’ll agree with you on one thing. The Cowboys need to improve their offensive line. Behind a really good offensive line, both Felix and DeMarco will run for huge yards and Romo will have time to go deep. To me, I would rather fix our offensive line and have a top-4 offense (equal to the Saints, Packers, and Patriots).
Conn Cowboy - February 26, 2012
You're Too Much Into "Meaningless Statistics" To Have A Clue.....
The bottom line is to TAKE what the opposing Defense give you. If opposing Defenses load up the box and/or take away your Intermediate passing game, go over the top. With Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz, Eli took what the defenses gave him all season long. While Brady will dink and dunk his way down the field, Eli made the big plays over the top all season long. And, he and Romo did the same thing in 2007 when the Boys had a 13-3 record but the Giants beat them in the playoffs on their way to the NFL Title.
My point is that you don’t get those big play opportunities down the field unless you have a good running game to bring up the Safeties. While the Giant’s running game ranked dead last for a myriad of reasons, it is freakin meaningless because we ALL saw the Giants running game do ’it’s normal thing’ in the playoffs.
If you want facts, chew on this one for awhile, “the Giants will finish the 2011 season not ranked in the top 10 for only the third time since Tom Coughlin took over as coach in 2004.” It’s mean squat….did it?? I’m sure the Giants (and 31 other NFL Teams) would take an NFL Championship OVER a stupid and meaningless regular season statistic (like rushing rank) that has YOU wrapped up around the axle. The Giant running game came alive in the playoffs and this Offensive balance kept the Packers and 49ers and Patriots Defense honest.
Yes, the 80’s (Bill Walsh) West Coast passing game (dink & dunk version of Sid Gillman’s offenses) has replaced the Power running game for many NFL teams. Even Harbaugh installed it for the 2011 49ers but that Offense works best with a very good RB to keep Defenses honest. So what!!
I still prefer the Cowboys and Giants power running and vertical passing game. And you obviously don’t know what PHYSICAL means yet. You call it parrot speak but if a team doesn’t have physical guys who can dish out and take punishment…..it doesn’t matter what QB or what system is used. The Cowboys did not have thumpers in their secondary or ILBers for the past few years. Other than Marion Barber, their RB’s were average and/or finesse players.
Give me a Brandon Jacobs (Terrance Ganaway) or Ahmad Bradshaw (Demarco Murray) for the 2012 season with a revamped OL (rookie DeCastro) and added toughness on the DL (Paul Soliai & Bruce Carter), and Secondary (2nd Rd CB or Safety), and draft a ‘hidden gem or BPA’ in Rds 3-6, and we may have a competitive team again!!!
Pacerman - February 27, 2012
All yours .....
The Giants thought so much of him that they released him.
Conn Cowboy - March 9, 2012
Inconsistent and a weak grasp of the facts
You are right, they had a great first game and was mediocre for the next 3 games where they average 3.5, 3.3, and 4.1 yards/carry.
So why do you have you panties in a bunch over a running game if it is a “meaningless” statistic? If it is meaningless, why do you care so much?
FYI — Bruce Carter is a linebacker, not DL. Also, your mancrush on Soliai is what got you in the mess in the first place.
Let me guess, you are one of those guys — they guys that kept telling us that MBIII was misunderstood and that he should be getting more touches.
This is a QB league — not a RB league.
Funny that, the Giants value Jacobs so much they are probably going to ask him to take a paycut.
Conn Cowboy - February 28, 2012
Funny....you're still dumb as hell....
FYI…I don’t know of any NFL team that would not take the Giants rushing avg in the playoffs or their two stud RBs despite your total ignorance and stupidity.
FYI….still too dumb to recognize a meaningless regular-season statistic vs a NFL championship. There are always mitigating circumstances that may affect NFL teams ability to run or pass the ball. What counts the most is that the Giants were able to put it together and win another NFL Championship and I give them their due and deserved respect for that great accomplishment.
FYI….I know Bruce Carter is a LBer….turd-face….added tougness to our Defense was the intent of my comment.
FYI…and, no, turd-for-brains, MBIII was just a power RB who had a role in our Offense. He gave us some great games and played a very physical style of running. Of course, you have NO clue what ‘physical’ really means since you think everyone has to have it to play in the NFL…again, you have NO clue!!!
FYI….the Brandon Jacobs (vice Terrance Ganaway @6’1" 241lbs) analogy….turd-for-brains…..was only to reinforce the kind of players that Jason Garrett wants for his Cowboy teams in order to play a very physical style of football like the 1990’s Cowboys and current Giants have played in the Eastern Conference. To play this style of physical (POWER) football, Jason wants more bigger and athletic players (throughout his team) that are less apt to shy away from physical contact like Jenkins and Scandrick in the Secondary or our current crop of undersized Defensive Linemen that play either Nose Tackles (3-4 Defense) or Defensive Tackles (when we go Goal-line defense) who are less likely to make those key stops on 3rd & short or goal-line situations
Again, keep bringing your stupid replies and I will gladly answer all of them for your continuing edification……later…..go back to wearing your QB undies
Pacerman - March 2, 2012
You are a piece of work
Really? You’ve contacted the GMs and put that question to all of them? Let’s just say you are just “talking out of your azz.” I know it is easier for you to back up your arguments with made up facts, but it is painfully obvious when you do.
Mitigating circumstances? For a game, sure, but not a whole season. The Giants won on the arm of Eli — not on the legs of Bradshaw and Jacobs.
Then why did you write he was on the D-line?
DL = defensive line, not defense. Write what you mean next time.
Let’s hear your definition of “toughness” tough guy. FYI — I would say that that almost all players (outside of kickers) that play NFL football are some of the toughness people you will ever meet.
MBIII had some good games, but he was hardly great. 6 seasons with the Cowboys and only 8 100 yard games (a ninth in the playoffs) with a high of 148 yards. He is one of the most over-rated RBs the Cowboys have ever had.
We shall see who Jason brings in at RB. My guess is that the Cowboys won’t bring in anybody like you are suggesting. Time will tell and we’ll see who is right and who is wrong.
FYI — the 1990s is over. That style of football is over. Football is a different game 20 years later. However, too many Cowboy fans are still stuck in the 90s to realize it. I think you are one of them.
One last thing, I was hardly the only one to disagree with your comments here.
Conn Cowboy - March 2, 2012
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