DAVETROLL: COWBOYS FAN 4 LIFE

Cowboys at Packers: When Dallas Has The Ball

2009-11-12T09:33:00.005-06:00

Dallas Cowboys will look to extend their win streak to five games when they travel to Green Bay. The Cowboys are coming off a spectacular win over the division rival Philadelphia Eagles, 20-16, while the Packers are reeling with a loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 38-28.

The Cowboys will need to get their running game going sometime. We saw the Razorback offense run well last week against the Eagles. Maybe we could see more of it this week. It would give Tashard Choice an opportunity to contribute more and it may allow Felix Jones to break a long run like he did last year against the Packers. If we have three good running backs, let's use them.

Packers run defense is ranked 9th in the league right now, holding opponents to 97.1 yards per game. Cowboys run offense is ranked 8th in the league, getting 138.6 yards per game. The Cowboys should be effective with all three backs in this game. They will have to get it established early in the game with Barber pounding away at the defense wearing them down. Throw in a little speed with Felix, and mix it up with Choice.

I expect Miles Austin to be able to provide a reliable target once again for Tony Romo. If things are improving with Romo and Roy Williams, then the passing game could improve for all targets. It could help open up the middle to allow Jason Witten to get downfield more often.

Packers pass defense is ranked 8th in the league allowing 185.8 yards per game, while Cowboys pass offense is ranked 6th with 265.9 yards per game. This will be the Packers highest ranked passing team they will have faced so far.

The Cowboys will need to continue to mix up the plays and have a balanced attack.

Limit the self-defeating penalties, especially the pre-snap penalties, and it should be a good game for the Cowboys offense.

Cowboys Defeat Eagles, 20-16; Take Lead In NFC East

2009-11-08T23:48:00.003-06:00

How about that win over the Eagles!! That Eagles defense is still an aggressive defense, but the Cowboys were able to overcome that and pull out a hard fought victory, 20-16!

I believe the Eagles are still a very good football team and the Cowboys may have finally proven they can beat a quality team. They came in confident, and they played their hearts out against a division rival and now sit atop the NFC East.

I was impressed with the Cowboys defense preventing the Eagles the chance for big plays they have been winning with. Only big play was a screen pass to LeSean McCoy for 45 yards. No pass plays over 50 yards.

The Cowboys offense was led by Roy Williams with five receptions for 75 yards and Jason Witten with seven receptions for 43 yards. But the big play was Miles Austin's single reception for 49 yards for a game clinching touchdown.

Tony Romo went 21/34 with 307 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Played a good game against a very aggressive defense.

This game was a hard fought game and the Cowboys came out on top. This team has a new attitude and it is showing on the field. I was down about this team as with any fan of the Cowboys when they were inconsistent, but they have shown me that they are working hard to put them in a good position at the end of the season.

They still have a way to go, but they are on their way if they keep playing like this! Cowboys fans, it is time to back this team all the way!!

GO COWBOYS!!

Cowboys Defeat Seahawks 38-17; Three Game Win Streak

2009-11-01T18:27:00.004-06:00

The Dallas Cowboys cruised to a 38-17 victory over the Seattle Seahawks today. The Cowboys have extended their win streak to three games. As a team, they played very well and disciplined ball.

Tony Romo for the first time in his career, went three straight games without an interception. He completed passes to ten different receivers in this game, spreading the ball around the field. He did have one fumble late in the fourth quarter, and I am curious as to why he was still on the field when it appeared the game was in hand, or even throwing the ball. Play calling by Jason Garrett in question if you ask me. Run the ball, take time off the clock, and let the defense take control at the end.

Leading the receivers again this week was Miles Austin with five receptions for 61 yards and one touchdown. Another undrafted wide receiver, Sam Hurd, made his mark in this game with a 36 yard touchdown reception. You have to start liking this receiver corps providing so many weapons to go to. I believe it is definitely better than having one superstar receiver. The Cowboys just have to hope that this success continues throughout the rest of the season.

Only disappointing receiver is our "supposedly" number one receiver, Roy Williams. He may be a good receiver, but why can't he and Romo get at least on the same book, let alone the same page? Some of the throws looks to be Romo's fault, high and low throws, some behind Roy. They can't even get it together for a fade route in the end zone. Luckily, there was a pass interference call. Instead of going to the fade route, Roy goes inside, huh? I just don't know if they are not seeing the same coverage, or what. But I do know they need to get it going soon.

The defense has been consistent during this winning streak and they continued that today. They forced two fumbles, three sacks from Ware, Brooking, and Carpenter (one each). Yes, Bobby Carpenter even got a sack! No interceptions today, but the secondary played a great game covering the receivers.

Special teams was great as well, except for one missed field goal by Nick Folk. Can you believe Patrick Crayton with another punt return for a touchdown? Believe it, two games in a row with a touchdown return! He did fumble one, but he more than made up for it with the touchdown.

Next week, it is the Philadelphia Eagles. Both teams at 5-2, division rivals. Should be a great game. The Cowboys need to continue playing like they have, because division games, just throw out the record. Cowboys will have to play some of their best football next week. Can they win a big game? They had a chance against the Giants earlier this season, can they do it now?

Cowboys News and Information

2009-10-29T10:46:00.005-05:00

I have been away moving to a new home and didn't have any internet, so now I am back.

What a great game the Cowboys played last Sunday against the Falcons! Cowboys finally played a complete game and won two games in a row!

The Cowboys defense stepped up and got pressure on Matt Ryan and stopped their running game. The defense was led by DeMarcus Ware's two sacks and the defensive line. The secondary is even showing some toughness with some big hits and interception by Mike Jenkins! Great job, D!!

Miles Austin, what can you say? There was always some hope he would step up to the challenge, and he did against Kansas City and Atlanta. This is what Jerry was hoping for when he let TO go. A receiver to stretch the field and make the big play. Tony definitely has a lot of trust in him, now just need to get it going with Roy Williams.

It was great to see DeMarcus Ware to finally get paid with a new contract. This is well deserved, and I know he will not let up. He will continue to be the beast he has been. He is a great athlete, but even better as a person.

The next game is against the Seattle Seahawks. Last year, the Seahawks were bad and injured when they came to Texas Stadium last Thanksgiving. The Cowboys won 34-9. This year, they are injured on the offensive line, Lofa Tatupu will be out with a torn pectoral. They have blown away the St Louis Rams and the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The Cowboys must take advantage of the weakened offensive front and go after Matt Hasselback. The way the defense is playing now, I don't see a problem for them to do that. They will be facing their old teammate, Julius Jones, but he really hasn't been a factor for that team yet.

This should come down a victory for the Cowboys, but this could be a trap game. The attitude seems different now, so I don't think the Cowboys are looking ahead to next week against the Philadelphia Eagles.

They need to take one game at a time, establish some consistency through these next few games. The Cowboys have a tough schedule here on out, they need to finish strong. This season seems to be different already. The Cowboys have struggled the beginning of the season this year, they usually start strong and finish weak. Let's hope they are turning it around and finish strong this year.

Bad News: Cowboys Defeat The Kansas City Chiefs

2009-10-12T23:50:00.003-05:00

Did you hear the bad news? Dallas Cowboys beat the Kansas City Chiefs in overtime, 26-20, on a game winning 60-yard touchdown pass to Miles Austin! The season's over. Such humiliation to win a game. Can't believe the Cowboys found a victory.

It is time to clean house, can't lose with this team. I can't play with winners, I want losers! Time to give Jon Kitna a chance. Get out of here Miles Austin, you look like a winner. Tony Romo, you threw no interceptions, can't have that. Plus, no fumbles??

DeMarcus Ware, calm down, can't have any sacks. The would help the team. You got two, that's enough. Jay Ratliff, isn't it time for you to just lay down?

Especially you Tashard Choice, take it easy. No need to prove anything. Felix and Barber hurt will help the Cowboys lose.

Hey, the season isn't over. Yes, the Cowboys looked pathetic at times. The bye week, the Cowboys do need to work on a lot of things and play so much better than they have. Can the Boys do it? I do hope so, but it's all on them from this point on. I will take an ugly win, just as though as it is a win. Give Kansas City some credit, they fought harder than you thought they would. Any Given Sunday, right? We are 3-2, not 0-5.

To: Jerry Jones...Wanted....

2009-10-05T11:22:00.003-05:00

A sharp, intelligent head coach with a heart and desire of an intense champion. Must be able to get in a players face when things go wrong and give high praise when done right. Confidence, accountability and consistency are traits required for this job. Strengths in offense and defense are highly recommended.

Also, hiring a general manager with a football mind and intelligence that can scout the best players and turn them into a team player. Not looking for a Yes man. Must work at high levels of the organization, but will also be required to give the right tools for the head coach to win games.

If there is a wide receiver who is fast and can stretch the field available, please bring them as well. Must have good hands and run good routes. They must think of the team over themselves.

If it isn't too much to ask, bring the running game with you as well.

Thank you,

One of many Dallas Cowboys fans

Week 4: Dallas At Denver Preview

2009-10-01T12:23:00.006-05:00

This Sunday, the Dallas Cowboys will travel to Denver for a 3:15 pm game. Dallas is coming off a short week after claiming victory over the Carolina Panthers on Monday night. Denver won against the Oakland Raiders.

The Cowboys will bring in their league leading rushing attack into Invesco Field. However, Felix Jones will not be playing in this game and it is unsure if Marion Barber will be available as well. I do feel that Barber will go, but it may come to a game time decision. Tashard Choice will be fully capable to fill in as the starter or for Felix. Depending whatever decision is made, the Cowboys might have to call up Chauncey Washington off the practice squad. I don't know much about this back, so we will have to see how it goes.

Denver's rush defense is ranked seventh in the NFL. This is the highest ranked run defense the Cowboys will have faced so far. So, do you establish the run game with the pass game to loosen up the defense? Or, do you just try and pound the ball and hope the running game gets going? I would try to get the running game going a series or two and if it don't work, use a few screens and passes out in the flats. How effective will the receivers be? Roy Williams admitted that he has never played in Denver and he has asthma. How will the high altitude affect his play?

Broncos pass defense is ranked second in the NFL behind the New York Giants. The Cowboys will have to get everyone involved in the passing game. The Broncos will try and take Witten out of the game and force Tony to use other players to beat them. It will be time for them to step up and help out. Of course, Tony has to be careful and make no mistakes.

Flozell might have a hard time against Elvis Dumervil, he is having is best season so far with six sacks. The Broncos now use the 3-4 as their base defense.

The Cowboys will face a couple of good running backs in Correll Buckhalter and rookie Knowshon Moreno. The Cowboys has improved their run defense in the last two games, hopefully, that will continue. The pass defense is a better as well in getting two interceptions, three sacks, and a fumble recovery, something desperately needed by this team. Stop the run and don't give Kyle Orton time to make passes, the defense can stop this team.

Broncos are 3-0 so far this season. No matter what they say, they got lucky against the Bengals. That is the best team they have beaten so far. They have beaten a 1-2 Raiders team and a 0-3 Chiefs team. Doesn't sound too impressive.

The Cowboys are 2-1 this season. They have beaten a 0-3 Buccaneers and a 0-3 Panthers team. Cowboys lost to the 3-0 Giants. You would think based on level of competition the Cowboys would have no problem. But let's not take that for granted.

I believe the Cowboys can go in there for a win, 34-24.

Cowboys, WIN This Game, Shut The Naysayers Up

2009-09-26T17:05:00.002-05:00

I am so sick of a lot of Cowboys fans!! Get the damn loss to the Giants out of your system!! It's over!!! So, Romo has one bad game this season!!! The defense sucked ass defending the pass!!! Get over it!! It was one game, it is not the end of the world.

Romo will come back strong, he never has a had two bad games in a row. Give the Giants some credit, they beat the Cowboys.

Here it is almost a week and people still crying over it. Grow up and get a pair!! Yes, there are deficiencies on the team. The Cowboys will overcome.

Damn, been a Cowboys fan over 30 years, there have been worse.

Get a grip people!!

Week 3: Carolina Panthers at Dallas Cowboys Preview

2009-09-23T08:34:00.004-05:00

The Cowboys will welcome Jake Delhomme and the Carolina Panthers to Cowboys Stadium for a Monday night game to be televised on ESPN.

This game has some interesting twists to it. The first one being, which quarterback can throw less interceptions. The other, which secondary is more vulnerable.

Jake Delhomme has thrown five interceptions and lost one fumble. He has been sacked four times. As you remember, Jake had five interceptions against the Cardinals in the playoffs last year. He has a tendency to throw some mistakes probably more than what Romo does. It is a must that the Cowboys get pressure on him to force these mistakes and cause turnovers.

His leading receiver is Steve Smith with eleven receptions for 152 yards. He maybe small, but he is not afraid to play like a big man. He can be a quick receiver and may cause trouble for our secondary. At this point, I would not want to cover him man-to-man with any of our cornerbacks. I just don't trust them right now.

The possession receiver is Muhsin Muhammad, he has reliable hands and is a bigger receiver.

Carolina's running game consists of DeAngelo Williams and Jonathon Stewart. They are very capable to busting out big runs if given the chance. Now if the Cowboys run defense plays like they did against the Giants, I believe they can be limited.

Will Marion Barber be back for this game? Last news I heard is that there is a 50/50 chance that he maybe ready. But if he isn't, Tashard Choice is more than capable to step in and do a good job. Cowboys can run the ball no matter who they have in the game. Maybe even if Barber is ready to go, it maybe possible to see more carries for Felix Jones and Choice. I would like to see Barber being more used between the tackles, get Felix stretching it outside with some sweeps and screens, and Choice a good mixture of both.

Romo will have to get EVERYONE involved in the passing game. As much as I love Witten, we can't have all the passes going to him. The other receivers and tight ends will need to be involved. I still believe in Romo, but he will need to show that he is capable of not throwing needless interceptions.

I want a more aggressive defense this week. I want to see a more balanced offense. All around, I need to see this team have the determination to go all out for a win. They are saying the right things now, but let's put it in action now!!!!

Week 2: Romo Throws Win Away From The Cowboys

2009-09-21T11:00:00.003-05:00

I don't usually get too critical of Tony Romo, but this loss is completely on him. His interceptions that he threw last night was not being smart. Other than the interception off Witten's foot, the other two interceptions seemed to go right to the defenders.

The first interception is clearly New York Giants being smarter and changing the coverage. Romo didn't read it and either tried to throw to Roy Williams and threw too high or to Patrick Crayton and didn't get it there. The defender caught it and ran the ball back for a touchdown. Tony would have enough time to read it and just throw the ball away or find another option.

The long bomb interception was just stupid!! This is not only on Romo, but I also put this one on Jason Garrett. The Cowboys were moving the ball with the run on that drive and all night. Why throw a deep pass??? The running game takes time off the clock and a plus if we score a TD or FG.

Romo took the blame and the responsibility for the loss and it is good to see that. It still doesn't win the game. He put the defense on the field too much in critical field positions.

Speaking of the defense, the run defense definitely improved over last week. Anytime that you can shut down the Giants running game, you are doing a good job. Unfortunately, the Cowboys still not getting sacks or turnovers. Eli Manning was completing passes to Manningham and Smith like they were just playing catch in the back yard. The Cowboys' secondary wasn't covering them, only following them around the field.

Newman got punked by Manningham. Has he lost it? Are Jenkins and Scandrick all that they were advertised? I am beginning to believe that they are not ready. Zero interceptions?!?!

Pass rush?? I understand that you don't necessarily have to sack the quarterback all the time, but zero sacks in two games from a team that led the league in team sacks? Why let Greg Ellis go when we were unsure in what we had in Spencer? Ellis has three sacks in two games with the Raiders this season so far.

The Cowboys had a chance take a lead in the NFC East and show they are the best. I want this team to develop some heart and desire. I don't see it, what I see is that they feel they are winners only by the star on their helmet. They can't be like that, they need to earn the right by winning and finishing teams off.

Get your heads up and out of your asses, Cowboys. Get ready for the Carolina Panthers, I need you to win big!!

Week 2: New York Giants Vs Dallas Cowboys

2009-09-17T07:56:00.005-05:00

First game in Cowboys Stadium, first game against a division rival. Doesn't get much better than this! Cowboys will be wanting to christen the new stadium with a win and the Giants will want to spoil the evening. What scares me about this game, is that each time Jerry is honoring something Cowboys the team finds a way to lose. Let's hope it won't be this one.

For the Cowboys to come up victorious, they need to improve on the run defense. Last week, Tampa Bay gashed the Cowboys. They can't let that happen against the good running teams. The Giants are a running team with Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw. They will pound it with Jacobs and spread it with Bradshaw. The Cowboys need stuff it at the line and stay in their lanes.

The defense overall will have to play a lot better than they did last week. Stop the run and force Eli into passing the ball. Anthony Spencer seems to get sacks against Eli, maybe he will get some sacks this game. If we can get some sacks and turnovers, I will be happy.

If Romo gets good protection and has time to pick his weapon, he should be able capitalize on the the Giants secondary that will be missing Aaron Ross and Kenny Phillips. I liked how Jason Garrett created mismatches against Tampa Bay.

This is a division rival and we need to see if this Cowboys team has the heart and determination to defeat them. Do not let Jacobs intimidate with his trash talk, just let your play do your talking. If you get into trash talking with Jacobs, he will bait you into a penalty. Keep your mouth SHUT and SHUT his mouth with your play!!

Week 1 Review: Cowboys Pull Off Win Against The Buccaneers

2009-09-13T19:48:00.004-05:00

The Cowboys have started on the right track with a win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 34-21. I wasn't sure how the game would go, because of all the changes the Cowboys were going through and how the Buccaneers would play with a new offensive coordinator. I will not put out the statistical analysis of the game, but if you click the Week 1 graphic at the top of my blog, it will take you to the NFL.com analysis.

I am pleased the Cowboys came out with a win and I don't want to take too much out of it. There were good moments and some bad moments. These are strictly my opinion, if you differ, that is fine with me.

Let's take the bad moments first:

Defense: I took for granted that this defense would be one of the best. It might be some time this season, however, today it didn't even look like a great college defense.

The run defense looked like a sieve for almost all the first half. Olshansky, Ratliff, and Spears were supposed to be run stuffers on the line, but it seemed they were being stuffed by the Buccaneers offensive line. The Buccaneers running backs are pretty good, but I thought the Cowboys would do better.

In my opinion, there wasn't much pressure put on Byron Leftwich. His line seemed to block long enough to get the ball to a receiver. There may have been some pressures and hurries, but all we heard was getting sacks and turnovers. This game we came with zero in both categories. There should have been one interception but it was nullified by a penalty when Gerald Sensabaugh supposedly illegally used his hand on the receiver. It looked to me that he just touched the jersey, I call it a "home-grown" penalty.

Offense: The run to pass ratio was 24 to 27. I thought there should be more running plays than passing. Marion Barber to me doesn't look as "Barbarian" as he used to be. I saw more dancing than running players over.

Here are some of the good moments I saw.

Special Teams: After the past few years, this unit has been the weak point. Well, today it was evident why David Buehler was drafted this season. His kicks went in the end zone majority of the time today, causing three touchbacks out of seven kicks!! When the Buccaneers ran it out, the coverage team stopped them with minimal gains.

Nick Folk was impressive going for two for two with the longest at 51 yards.

Offense: Tony Romo had zero turnovers! He played smart, but still tried a couple times to just throw an errant throw. Romo didn't take advantage of height mismatches with Martellus Bennett against Ronde Barber. He threw the ball low and behind him. If Romo throws that higher, Bennett out-jumps Barber for a touchdown. He did it one other time with Roy Williams.

The wide receivers took advantage of blown coverages and Roy Williams looked pretty much in sync with Romo.

Also, penalties were kept to a minimum. Four penalties for 41 yards, with two taking away big plays. You won't believe that Flozell Adams did not have a false start penalty all game. For that matter, I don't think there was even one called on the Cowboys in the game.

One other good moment, Romo had a career high, and didn't need the production of TO (at least for this game).

What Jersey Are You Wearing For The Game?

2009-09-10T13:10:00.000-05:00

My game day "ritual" as you may call it, is to wear the color of jersey the team is playing for the week. It is assumed that the Buccaneers will put the Cowboys in their dark color to deal with the Florida heat and humidity.

I am going with 24 Marion Barber Blue Jersey!! I was going to go with the 82 Jason Witten, but I can't find that one.

So, what are you sporting for the game? If not a jersey, a Cowboys T-Shirt?

Week 1: Dallas Cowboys at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

2009-09-07T13:03:00.003-05:00

The NFL regular season officially starts this week. The Cowboys first opponent is the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, September 13, 2009 at 12 PM Central.

Tampa Bay is going through some changes compared to last year. They have a new head coach Raheem Morris after firing Jon Gruden. Monte Kiffin moved on as the defensive coordinator at University of Tennessee. The Bucs preseason was kind of shook up with the firing of their offensive coordinator, Jeff Jagodzinski, last week. Quarterbacks coach, Greg Olson, has moved up to replace him.

They nearly made the playoffs last year at 9-7, but lost to Oakland Raiders in the last game that could have helped the Cowboys make the playoffs. The Cowboys blew their chance by terribly losing their last game to the Philadelphia Eagles. How will each team come back this year? Well, Sunday, we will find out.

Tampa Bay will still use the defense and a good running game to overpower the Cowboys' 3-4 defense. They acquired Derrick Ward from the New York Giants (remember Mike Jenkins missed tackle last year ole') to go with Carnell Williams and Earnest Graham. They will probably use Ward and Williams as the change up guys and have Graham tire the middle of the defense up.

Another new addition to Tampa is Kellen Winslow, Jr from the Cleveland Browns. Last year, the Cowboys used Greg Ellis to cover him because they couldn't trust Roy Williams. I doubt they will do that with Anthony Spencer. The Cowboys will trust Gerald Sensabaugh to do a better job in covering the Tight End this year.

I believe that Terrence Newman and Mike Jenkins will have no problems with the Tampa Bay wideouts of Antonio Bryant and Michael Clayton.

The starting quarterback for the Buccaneers will be Byron Leftwich, he is not a very mobile quarterback, but he is a serviceable quarterback and effective. The key, which I preach a lot about, is getting pressure and forcing mistakes. Get the sacks, but the Cowboys need to improve in takeaways this season.

Offensively, the Cowboys need to spread the ball, but more importantly, get the ground game established with Marion Barber and Felix Jones. Put in a few carries for Tashard Choice as well. If they have to pass, use Roy Williams, Patrick Crayton, Jason Witten, Martellus Bennett, and all the weapons to spread the ball around. Keep the defense guessing.

The top of the list, Tony Romo needs to play smart and protect the ball. Carry the ball firmly and be smart about throwing the ball. I want Jason Garrett to call a balanced game plan.

I expect the Buccaneers to have the Cowboys wear their blue jerseys in the Florida weather. There is a chance of rain forecasted for the game. In my schedule bar, you can click the banner for this game and it will take you to the ESPN preview of this game.

Also, if you check my blog on Wednesday, I will have a link up that will show what games will be televised in your area. I already know that it will not be shown where I am so I may try and go somewhere to watch it.

Sorry Guys, Cowboys Can't Use You

2009-09-05T17:21:00.004-05:00

Here’s a list of the cuts and roster moves made on Saturday. Only undrafted rookie free agent to make team, Kevin Ogletree:

Injured Reserve:
Stephen Hodge - Part of the Injury Draft Class of 2009. Never fully recovered from off season knee surgery.

Waived:
Travis Bright
Courtney Brown - Too many mistakes, got burned too many times
Rudy Carpenter
Scott Chandler
Julius Crosslin
Marcus Dixon
Tearrius George - Picks him up on waivers this past week, and already gone. Despite depth problems at the linebacker position.
Ryan Gibbons
Jeremy Haynes
Jesse Holley - I thought he did better than Stanback.
Mike Jefferson
Manuel Johnson
Keon Lattimore (waived/injured)
Mike Mickens
Willie Reid
Derreck Robinson
Asaph Schwapp
Jonas Seawright
DeAngelo Smith
Isaiah Stanback - Didn't see this one coming! Laughs
Matt Stewart
DeAngelo Willingham

Video Screen: Is This Such A Big Deal?

2009-08-26T12:06:00.006-05:00

I have been way too quiet on things about the Cowboys recently. It is finally time for me to get back on here.

First things first...LEAVE THE VIDEOTRON WHERE IT IS!! The NFL requirement is 85', Jerry had his installed at 90'. I am pretty sure the NFL had to approve plans for this stadium to be built for NFL specifications. If they want it moved, then the NFL should fit the bill to do it. If anyone is at fault it is the NFL. Does Jerry deserve some blame? To a degree, I believe he should have listened to Mat McBriar when he said that 100' would be sufficient. Read Here

“One hundred feet would be the right height,” McBriar said afterward. “It would be close, but I don't think someone would hit it.”

Jones, however, didn't hang the scoreboard at 100 feet in Cowboys Stadium. He put it at 90.

Asked last spring if 90 feet might be too low, Jones shook his head. “This is higher than (San Antonio), so we're in good shape there.”

Jones didn't forget what happened that day in the Alamodome. He simply wanted the scoreboard at a lower position because, well, he thought it looked better that way.

This is being hyped up just because it is the Cowboys, that's all. Teams have to adjust to different stadiums. Teams can adjust how they punt in Cowboys Stadium.

Trapasso was trying to hit the scoreboard, he was doing it pregame. That tells me that he was intentionally trying to hit it just for this purpose. Maybe he was told by his coach, Jeff Fisher, to hit it. Think about it, Fisher is the head of the competition committee. This committee just made a recommendation to Roger Goodell about this. Hmm, conspiracy??

I don't really believe that every punt will hit the scoreboard. This is not a competitive edge for any team.

Stand your ground, keep the video board where it is. You don't force anyone to move it when it is within standards. If you have to move it NFL, look at yourself in who is to blame. You knew what the requirement was, Jerry went 5' higher than the standard. Change your own rule.

Dallas Cowboys Training Camp

2009-07-12T14:24:00.002-05:00

The Dallas Cowboys will start their training camp on July 29, 2009 in San Antonio, Texas. I personally can not wait for it to get started. It signals the start of the season will be upon us soon.

Listed below is the schedule:

Wednesday, July 29: 2:15 PM
Thursday, July 30: 8:50 AM and 3:15 PM
Friday, July 31: 2:15 PM
Saturday, August 1: 8:50 AM and 3:15 PM
Sunday, August 2: 8:50 AM and 3:15 PM
Monday, August 3: 8:50 AM and 3:15 PM
Tuesday, August 4: 2:15 PM
Wednesday, August 5: 8:50 AM and 3:15 PM
Thursday, August 6: 2:15 PM
Friday, August 7: 2:15 PM
Saturday, August 8: 8:50 AM and 3:15 PM
Sunday, August 9: 8:50 AM and 3:15 PM
Monday, August 10: 8:50 AM and 3:15 PM
Tuesday, August 11: 2:15 PM
Wednesday, August 12: 10:45 AM
Thursday, August 13: No Practice / Away Game vs. Oakland Raiders
Friday, August 14: No Practice
Saturday, August 15: 8:50 AM and 3:15 PM
Sunday, August 16: 8:50 AM and 3:15 PM
Monday, August 17: 2:15 PM
Tuesday, August 18: 8:50 AM and 3:15 PM
Wednesday, August 19: 10:45 AM

I am going to make an attempt in attending one of days when they will have practice twice. I just want to be able to experience it in person and share it with you.

Dallas Cowboys Expectations Up Or Down?

2009-06-25T17:13:00.006-05:00

In 2007, the Dallas Cowboys had an amazing season completing a season at 13-3 as the NFC East Division Champions. Unfortunately, they didn't have the will power or drive to win a playoff game that season.

During the off season prior to that, no one had any expectations of how well the Cowboys would do.

They come into the season in 2008 with many experts predicting that the Cowboys were the hands on favorite to win the Super Bowl. There were so many expectations of the team to accomplish that. They put pressure on themselves, the fans as well have expectations.

We all know what happened last season, they didn't meet those expectations.

So, what are the expectations of the team this season? What are your expectations?

I think for the team, they always have expectations to make it to the Super Bowl. I think what hurt the Cowboys in '07 and '08, they didn't have good leadership to harness the team and push them forward.

Do the Cowboys now have the leadership in place now? Can they take the right road and take it one game at a time? What should be on their minds right now, is Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Don't worry about the rest of the schedule.

My expectations of the Cowboys is low right now. I believe they have the talent and the ability to push further this season. So many unknowns, will the wide receivers do what they need to do? Can the offensive line stay intact and provide better blocking? Will the secondary really show what they are capable of?

Don't get me wrong, I have not lost hope in the Cowboys. I am just saying that it will be so much sweeter if the Cowboys do go all the way.

The Long Wait To Dallas Cowboys Training Camp

2009-06-19T14:51:00.003-05:00

The Dallas Cowboys have completed their Organized Team Activities (OTA) and mini camp. The next thing on their schedule will be Training Camp at San Antonio, Texas starting July 28 and go through August 19.

For more details, go here.

I am personally hoping that I can make it to one of the training camp practices myself. It should be an interesting to see it myself in person and I can blog about it here.

Here are my thoughts and issues heading into training camp:

1. Wide Receivers. Can Austin, Hurd, Stanback, and Travis Wilson be healthy? Austin and Hurd will make the team. Stanback seems fragile with injuries every year he has been in the league. Wilson will be fighting along with Manuel Johnson and Mike Jefferson for the fifth wide receiver spot.

I feel the Cowboys will only keep five receivers on the roster this season. So that final spot is up for grabs.

2. Tony Romo To Roy Williams Connection. This is my concern, during the minicamp these two were hit and miss. I realize it is early, but for the offense, it is crucial they have the timing down. If not, you might see a lot of broken plays, turnovers, and more double teams on the tight ends.

Williams has to be seen as a threat to open the offense up. He is a possession receiver, but with his height and leaping ability, he could outjump the cornerbacks defending against him.

3. The Running Game. Can Jason Garrett effectively run the offense to get Marion Barber, Felix Jones, and Tashard Choice involved in the game.

I personally don't care who starts the game, just as though that all three backs are used in the game. It would sweet to see different rotations in there and have two or all three on the field at the same time.

4. Defense. This unit is the most intriguing and improved team with the personnel changes and draft. It should allow for more of an attacking defense and should result in more turnovers than years past.

In 2007, it seemed the Cowboys relied on the offense to win the games. In 2008, I saw some improvement on the defensive side of the ball. This has to be the year that both offense and defense actually work together to win the games.

5. Special Teams. This unit has been disastrous in the last two years. With the coaching change and personnel, I believe they will actually supplement the team's effort in a good way this season.

The Dallas Cowboys have every opportunity to be successful this season. It is time for them to maintain their chemistry and do everything for the team.

Dallas Cowboys' 2009 Position Battle: Wide Receiver

2009-06-17T13:00:00.003-05:00

With the release of Terrell Owens, the Cowboys are confident that they could move on with Roy Williams and Patrick Crayton as the leading receivers. They are also just as confident with the younger receivers currently on the team.

I like Miles Austin as a receiver and I feel he has the qualities to make it. He has the quickness, size and has improved in catching the ball. He runs good routes. Many people feel that he could challenge Patrick Crayton as the number two wide receiver. That could be the case but we won't find out until training camp. During the OTAs, Austin injured his hamstring and was held out of practice during this week's mini camp.

His injuries are what's holding him back. He was injured two years ago and again last year. You can't challenge for playing time if you are always injured. Hopefully, by training camp, everything will be better.

Sam Hurd, came to the Cowboys at the same time as Austin. He has great speed and hands, but as with Austin, injuries seem to be a plague for him. He could see significant playing time if he can stay away from the injuries. He was held out of mini camp practice this week due to a quad injury.

Both players should be ready to by training camp. By then, maybe we can see these two challenge Crayton for his position.

Crayton probably is better to start in the slot position. Compared to Austin and Hurd, he has the better hands and yards after catch. He will probably maintain his spot.

This bunch of receivers is not instilling any confidence in me. Isaiah Stanback, Travis Wilson, and Kevin Ogletree are all injured as well. Reports are they all should be ready by training camp. Manuel Johnson and Mike Jefferson are trying their best to compete for a roster spot as other receivers are injured.

The Cowboys better hope they made the right decision, or if Roy and these other receivers can't pick it up, the offense could suffer. The opposing defenses will be able to double up on Witten and not worry about the receivers. It could hurt the running game as well. They will put eight men up on the line to stuff the run.

Not much of a battle now, but maybe during training camp the intensity will rise.

Dallas Cowboys' 2009 Position Battle: Nickel Inside Linebacker

2009-06-16T09:08:00.011-05:00

This position battle is not for a starting position, but who will become Kevin Burnett's replacement in the Dallas Cowboys' nickel linebacker package.

Bobby Carpenter, a first round pick in the 2006 NFL Draft, has not made the impact for the Cowboys as they thought he would. It is hard for me to understand why after all these years he still hasn't made it as a starting linebacker. You would think that by now he could prove himself capable to get on the field.

It just hasn't happened yet.

I don't think Carpenter is capable to fill this position. I think he is too slow to defend the pass and can't take on the blockers or a ball carrier. This position is not his to keep, it will be up to him to fight for it. If he wants this position, he must really step it up during mini camp and next month's training camp.

The Cowboys picked Jason Williams from Western Illinois in the third round this year. The coaches so far have like what they have seen from him. He wasn't invited to the NFL Combine, and he had to prove himself at his workout for the scouts at his pro day.

The Cowboys liked his speed and he could really make an impact on special teams, but they feel he could play in the nickel. I believe he will not only challenge Carpenter, but he will take that position from him.

Jason Williams even has his eyes on the starting inside linebacker position and may push for a starting position in the future.

I don't see that in Carpenter. If Carpenter can't beat out Williams here, I don't see him being a Cowboy. It was rumored that the Cowboys were shopping him for a trade earlier before the draft and then they pick up some more linebackers in the draft?

I think his days are numbered.

Dallas Cowboys Morning Mini Camp Notes

2009-06-15T15:11:00.002-05:00

Here are some notes concerning today's morning practice at Standridge Stadium. These updates are courtesy of the Dallas Morning News.

11:09 -- They're doing position drills now. With picks a priority for DBs, they're putting in a lot of work catching passes. Safeties coach Brett Maxie, a QB during his days a Dallas' Madison High, is firing balls from short range after the DBs do various drops. There's a fairly high drop ratio, with Terence Newman, Ken Hamlin and Courtney Brown among the clankers.

11:15 -- Team drills just started. First-team O vs. second-team D. ... Believe it or not, Tony Romo's first pass went to Jason Witten in traffic. CB Orlando Scandrick broke it up.

11:19 -- Lots of running plays, and you really can't tell a whole lot from those, considering the Cowboys aren't wearing pads. ... Stephen McGee is getting some reps with the third-team O. He eluded pressure and threw a knuckleball strike to sixth-round TE John Phillips for a 10-yard completion.

11:22 -- OLB Anthony Spencer just got his end turned on a neat sweep play to Marion Barber. Can't describe it in detail, per the Cowboys' new minicamp media policy.

11:25 -- Team drills ended with third-round LB Jason Williams getting to Jon Kitna on a blitz. ... Break for water and orange slices.

11:28 -- 7-on-7 starts with a Romo throwaway. It appears that WR Roy Williams, who takes coaching well, thought he was open on the play. .... Romo threw an out to Williams the next play. Williams was open, but Romo's throw was high and outside. Williams couldn't make what would have been a spectacular one-hand grab. ... Next play: A fade to Williams, who was blanketed by CB Mike Jenkins, who broke up the pass.

11:30 -- Undrafted WR Kevin Ogletree and Romo aren't having trouble clicking. The Virginia product had catches on consecutive plays: a short out and a deep slant about 18 yards downfield.

11:33 -- Jon Kitna can still wing it, but he had too much confidence in his arm when he tried to zip a skinny post to undrafted WR Julian Hawkins. S Jerome Carter, a roster long shot, should have picked it off but had the ball clank off his hands.

11:35 -- Undrafted QB Rudy Carpenter is getting some 7-on-7 reps. His first pass was a completed hitch to seventh-round WR Manny Johnson in front of Terence Newman. ... Carpenter to Johnson again, this one a completion across the middle in front of SS Gerald Sensabaugh. ... Those guys really shouldn't be able to complete passes against the starting D.

11:37 -- Great catch by Roy Williams on a deep ball from Tony Romo!! Williams got wide open behind CB Mike Mickens and S Pat Watkins on a pump-and-go. If Romo hits Williams in stride, it's an easy touchdown. But Williams had to make a great adjustment to catch the pass over his outside shoulder.

11:38 -- Dropped INT by Mike Mickens on a Romo-to-Crayton crossing route. None of the starters got open against the third-team secondary on the play, and Romo patted the ball in the pocket several times before trying to thread the needle across the middle. ... TE John Phillips caught a ball near the sideline about 20 yards downfield. Kitna threw a strike between rookie LB Brandon Williams and rookie S Mike Hamlin.

11:43 -- 7-on-7 is over. Team drills again.

11:45 -- TE Martellus Bennett ran a 10-yard out. Romo threw a 20-yard out. ... Incompletion on a slant to Roy Williams, who barely got his fingertips on the high pass and would have gotten laid out by a safety in a game.

11:47 -- Drop by Jason Witten on a slant. A Witten apologist in the press box points out that the ball was slightly behind him, but he got both hands on it.

11:48 -- Another Romo-to-Ogletree connection. This one was on a drag route with Courtney Brown all over Ogletree, but Romo squeezed the ball in a small window. ... Another nice catch by Roy Williams. This one was on a 15-yard out, with Williams snatching a pass over his head while making sure he got both feet in bounds.

11:51 -- Ogletree couldn't get open against Terence Newman, who broke up Kitna's pass on a slant route. ... Orlando Scandrick picked off the next pass across the middle. Kitna and Ogletree didn't appear to be on the same page on the crossing route.

11:54 -- Manny Johnson got good separation from Scandrick on a corner route. Kitna was able to complete the pass for a 30-plus-yard gain despite throwing off his back foot due to pressure.

11:58 -- The defense is working a little on its "Cowboy" package -- the 3-3 variation of the nickel. Wade Phillips found a way to get Anthony Spencer involved, but I can't be more specific ... A hurried Stephen McGee hit Terence Newman in the numbers for an easy pick six.

12:01 -- Third-team offense ain't exactly sharp. C Matt Spanos rolled a shotgun snap to McGee. And that's it for the morning session. Back with much more later.

Some other news of interest:

Greg Ellis has signed with the Oakland Raiders. It is reported to be a 3-year deal.

Felix Jones was added to the injury list with a contusion to his calf. He will not attend the practice this afternoon.

Other injuries of note:

Miles Austin (hamstring) - out for entire minicamp
Sam Hurd (quad) - out for entire minicamp
DE Igor Olshansky (back) - out for entire minicamp

On the positive side, paralyzed scout Rich Behm watched the practice from the press box. Wade Phillips thinks he will be able to return to limited duties.

Sports Blog Network

2009-06-14T16:12:00.006-05:00

I have joined the Sports Blog Network to help drive my blog traffic. I am sure this will help broaden my traffic.

Sports Blog Net is currently built on the principal of making all blogs in the network as successful as possible. Both in terms of money and traffic. We want sports fans to Discover, Read, Write, and Build.

Read all the quality blogs in the network
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Join the network as an additional revenue and traffic source for your sports blog

Our goals are to get all the small blogs out to the masses, give new bloggers the ability to get the exposure they are looking for, and give sports fans a destination that they want to visit everyday.

I am looking forward to the opportunity!

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Dallas Cowboys' 2009 Position Battle: Cornerback

2009-06-13T12:08:00.005-05:00

This starts a series of articles in which I will look the position battles within the Dallas Cowboys. The first article I will look at will probably be one of the most intriguing to me, Mike Jenkins and Orlando Scandrick.

Last year, the Cowboys picked Mike Jenkins in the first round. When he got to play last year, he did a decent job, except for doing the ole' in the bull ring with Derrick Ward. He had one interception returned for a touchdown.

The Cowboys probably got the steal of the draft last year with Orlando Scandrick in the fifth round. Some teams said there were character issues and that probably was the reason that he dropped. June Jones, former University of Hawaii told Wade that he got probably the best cornerback he ever faced.

Both players are young and have the speed to play man to man coverage. They are both equally capable to start on the opposite corner of Terence Newman. Who would you start? Based on where they were picked in the draft, I believe Scandrick actually made better progress. The coaches feel that either one could fit in.

You would expect that being a first round pick that it should be Jenkins. I would go with Jenkins and that is not necessarily a knock against Scandrick. My point is that Scandrick played the slot cornerback in the nickle and dime packages last year and he did an outstanding job. The team could also rotate each player and keep them fresh.

I like both players, they have been receiving high praise from the coaches, teammates, and media. They are both competing fiercely to be the starter. This bodes well for the Cowboys. Sometime in the future, these two will probably be the Cowboys starting cornerbacks.

There may be some smaller battles for spots on the team between Courtney Brown, who played safety last year. That experiment failed, and Cowboys brought him back to cornerback this off season. He has had good practices during these Organized Team Activities (OTAs).

Mike Mickens, rookie picked in the seventh round, could be this years version of Orlando Scandrick. Unfortunately, he hasn't been able to attend these workouts because he hasn't graduated from University of Cincinnati and school is still in session. It will be interesting how he will learn the Cowboys plays.

To be able to make the team, some of these players may have to be able to play safety as well and special teams.

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Pacman Jones Coming Back?

2009-06-08T11:33:00.004-05:00

It has been reported by Star-Telegram reporter, Clarence Hill, that Jerry Jones is considering bringing back Adam "Pacman" Jones to the Cowboys.

Apparently the door has not been completely closed on cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones’ career with the Dallas Cowboys.

A giddy Jerry Jones, reached in his private suite after the George Strait concert Saturday night to open the new Cowboys Stadium, asked a reporter, "Would you beat me up too bad if I brought back Adam?"

The Cowboys’ owner said he is considering the move even though it’s a long shot.

I do hope that Jerry Jones was under the influence of alcohol or so excited about the first event in Cowboys stadium that he became delirious. I do not want him back on the team. I can't see how he was rated as the best defensive back and he surely didn't help the punt return team any.

This makes no sense to me! Jerry Jones was cleaning the team up by releasing Tank Johnson, Terrell Owens, and Pacman. I was on board for these changes. If I had the choice among these three, I surely wouldn't pick Pacman to come back to the team.

We don't need a troublemaker on this team. I don't like this move because even though he has some talent, he is not very reliable. He has stayed out trouble so far, but can he be trusted to be there when the Cowboys need him? Jerry has been making moves this off season to have better team chemistry. Why bring back someone of such bad character?

Considering his play, he had two fumbles on punt return and only averaged 4.5 yard per return?! No interceptions and seven pass defenses? This is worth bringing him back? I don't think it is!

The only reason I would think this is being considered is that Terence Newman has been injured the last two or three seasons. I would still trust him to be able to play. There is still time before the season and Newman should be fine.

Don't do it, Jerry!!