Preseason Game #3: Cowboys vs Texans

[Paul]

Alrite, game is a little over an hour away. And if anything this should give us some in-state bragging rights. Not that the Texans have anything to brag about in the first place.

[pocketaces]

tough start but there was a big time clip on that return.

[Paul]

That's my boy Burnett! Nice sack.

[FinChase]

Offense looks out of sync tonight

[FinChase]

First touchdown scored against our first team defense, isn't it?

[Paul]

Spencer and Roy for got how to wrap up a tackle. It's looking horrible.

[Paul]

Martin Gram. just shanked the extra point. Nick Folk must be giddy on the inside.

[pocketaces]

That's my boy Burnett! Nice sack.


well your boys hurt......AGAIN

[Paul]

well your boys hurt......AGAIN

Yeah I saw that. Ankle injury, nothing to serious is what they're reporting. But you never know.

[M.O.T.H.]

I'm just watching the gamecast...what's going on boys? Romo is having a pretty nice night on paper...how's he look? Besides that long run by Ahman...it looks like we have done a fine job stopping the run.

[pocketaces]

I'm just watching the gamecast...what's going on boys? Romo is having a pretty nice night on paper...how's he look? Besides that long run by Ahman...it looks like we have done a fine job stopping the run.

Texans' second-quarter stats
Matt Schaub completed 8 of 10 passes for 71 yards and two TDs.

Ahman Green had seven carries for 71 yards.

Other than that, things went just swell for the Phillips 3-4.

Posted by Tim MacMahon at 8:35 PM

[pocketaces]

Romos looked pretty good but just threw a ugly pick.

[M.O.T.H.]

he has 65 yards on 8 carries...46 on one carry. It's not that bad really. Of course we cant give up runs like that but, you take it out of the equation and Green and Dayne havent done much of anything. What concerns me is Schaub picking apart our secondary.

[M.O.T.H.]

I'm surprised he let Romo come out again...pretty pointless really.

[Paul]

How much you guys want to bet that the only Romo highlight ESPN is going to show, will be the pick he just threw. Then Merrill Hodge will call him a poor decision maker and inconsistent, despite the solid game he's been having.

[M.O.T.H.]

I wouldnt doubt it...

[M.O.T.H.]

Well, it's pretty much Nick Folk's job to lose.

[pocketaces]

boy Sammy hurd looks good. Our S.T.'s have been bad.

[M.O.T.H.]

Sammy is stud...we need to get him some real PT this year.

[Paul]

Yup Hurd seems to get better with each game. The catches and the athleticism is nice, but what really impresses me is his overall effort especially on run blocking.

Nick Folk pulled in the lead for sure this game. A missed extra point didn't help Martin's chances at all.

[Im_a_Romosexual]

What concerns me is Schaub picking apart our secondary.

No Newman= Bad pass defense?

[M.O.T.H.]

No Newman= Bad pass defense?

Def. but, it cant all be because of that.

[M.O.T.H.]

Yup Hurd seems to get better with each game. The catches and the athleticism is nice, but what really impresses me is his overall effort especially on run blocking.

Nick Folk pulled in the lead for sure this game. A missed extra point didn't help Martin's chances at all.

Hurd is a hell of a special teamer as well...I'm not too sure how much time he will see there this year but, he was fantastic last season. great tackler. There is just so much to like.

[M.O.T.H.]

Who was covering on that last td?

[Modano]

Without Newman we lose so much. He shuts down the opposite #1 WR, he's too important for us. By the way, I'm happy we're not goig undefeated, last year we had bad luck after winning 4 out of 4 in the preseason :P

[robert_in_bigd]

How much you guys want to bet that the only Romo highlight ESPN is going to show, will be the pick he just threw. Then Merrill Hodge will call him a poor decision maker and inconsistent, despite the solid game he's been having.

Well, nice to see you are wrong. LOL.

Actually everything was Schaub looking All World and Jacoby Jones.

Woooaaaaaa is us not b/c of ESPN but because we did not address some needs in the draft and are relying on UDFA, Waiver Wire Vets and 33+ Year Old WR to win games.

[robert_in_bigd]

Well, one thing is for sure ... Our Special Teams coverage has been bad overall. Whoever is coaching it needs to work really hard in the next 10 days.

[robert_in_bigd]

>>>>>>> But the defensive line did squat to stop Schaub other than Ferguson's deflection. Ends Marcus Spears and Chris Canty might as well have been invisible after playing well against the Broncos. "Don't put a tag on us," Spears said. "We're in a new defense, and we need to work some things out."

What tag would that be Marcus -- "bust?" Best tag I can think for you Marcus is BUST.

Once again, a perpetual problem with this D's personality, is the excuses. Always excuses. Excuses. Excuses. Excuses..... and of course never "my fault".

And Phillips/Stewart have not fixed the inability of these kids to take ownership of results.

Is it BP's fault that Schaub looked All-World v. the First Team? Was the D too "basic?"

Smoke fire......

[robert_in_bigd]

BTW, look at Romo's INT. TO wide open but .... footwork. Roy Williams on the Green 40 yard run..... blew a tackle trying to be supah star. OLine back to 2006 form killing drives with penalties.... including our new new new guard savior Bigg.

But hey, it is preseason.

Anyone see Peterman is a starter in Detroit? So we took Kosier and they got Peterman. NICE!

[Gribble]

I don't think we should overreact to this game. There were several fluke aspects to it:

1. 91 yard punt return (with the clip block)

2. Green's 46 yard run. If you take that run away he averages less than 3 yards a carry.

3. Schaub's good play I feel was more a of result of the height advantage that Andre Johnson (6'3'') has over Aaron Glenn (5'9") then it was our fault. The Texans put that in their gameplan and it's something that won't work when Newman comes back.

I hope the team plays better next time and gets in a good performance before the season starts.

[Gribble]

Well, nice to see you are wrong. LOL.

Actually everything was Schaub looking All World and Jacoby Jones.

Woooaaaaaa is us not b/c of ESPN but because we did not address some needs in the draft and are relying on UDFA, Waiver Wire Vets and 33+ Year Old WR to win games.

He's just saying that the coverage will be spun to show that it was all Romo's fault when it really wasn't. It's called reading.

[robert_in_bigd]

He's just saying that the coverage will be spun to show that it was all Romo's fault when it really wasn't. It's called reading.

Uh .... no ... it is called reading comprehension. Retype and rethink ....

>>>>>>Originally Posted by Paul How much you guys want to bet that the only Romo highlight ESPN is going to show, will be the pick he just threw. Then Merrill Hodge will call him a poor decision maker and inconsistent, despite the solid game he's been having.

None of what Paul forecasted has happened.

In fact, that is why I pointed out the highlights showed (spun in your words) the D and Special Teams getting toasted. NOT Romo.

No one focused on bashing Romo or blaming Romo for the loss. It was the D they "highlighted."

REGARDLESS, Romo (once again) threw up a duck because he does not set his feet properly. Happend on the Austin INT last week by Bly.

[Gribble]

Uh .... no ... it is called reading comprehension. Retype and rethink ....

>>>>>>Originally Posted by Paul How much you guys want to bet that the only Romo highlight ESPN is going to show, will be the pick he just threw. Then Merrill Hodge will call him a poor decision maker and inconsistent, despite the solid game he's been having.

None of what Paul forecasted has happened.

In fact, that is why I pointed out the highlights showed (spun in your words) the D and Special Teams getting toasted. NOT Romo.

No one focused on bashing Romo or blaming Romo for the loss. It was the D they "highlighted."

REGARDLESS, Romo (once again) threw up a duck because he does not set his feet properly. Happend on the Austin INT last week by Bly.

Seriously, do you have to have the last word all the time? Could you take in other people's opinions for one second? You call out people all the time for a lack of "reading comprehension" and you snap at me for calling you out on when you totally miss the point of what someone else is saying. That's pretty hypocritical if you ask me.

Anyway, we should be discussing the game instead. Thanks for taking the whole discussion off the tracks.

[Modano]

1. 91 yard punt return (with the clip block)



Yeah I think too that there was an illegal block during the return...
By the way, it's preseason, it means barely nothing, the player are not gonna play with all of their energy. Indianapolis went 0-4 last year...
We've seen good things from some player this preseason, on both offense and defense the players seem to be comfortable with the scheme.

And robert, I don't understand yoru comment as how we're tyring to win games. There's nothing bad in using 33+ WR to win, when these receivers are very good, and one of them is arguably the biggest playmaker at his postion. And UDFA can turn into good players, like Tony Romo, Tyson Thompson or Sam Hurd, to name a few. A guy called Jeff Saturday went undrafted, I'm sure the Colts are complaining about that.
The only complainment for me is that we didn't adress CB in the draft, but with Newman coming back for the RS we should be ok.

Next week will be boring, the final game of the PS is when most of the starters rest and when the play they're not playing full speed.

[robert_in_bigd]

Anyway, we should be discussing the game instead. Thanks for taking the whole discussion off the tracks.

Off-track is what Paul did by doing a "woaaaaa is us b/c ESPB hates the Cowboys and over evaluate their flaws"

So, Gribble, instead of saying "Paul, you are incorrect," you decide to pursue my post by saying I did not understand what Paul wrote.

I 100% understood what Paul wrote and meant. And he is incorrect.

Tks.

[robert_in_bigd]

Yeah I think too that there was an illegal block during the return...
By the way, it's preseason, it means barely nothing, the player are not gonna play with all of their energy. Indianapolis went 0-4 last year...
We've seen good things from some player this preseason, on both offense and defense the players seem to be comfortable with the scheme.

And robert, I don't understand yoru comment as how we're tyring to win games. There's nothing bad in using 33+ WR to win, when these receivers are very good, and one of them is arguably the biggest playmaker at his postion. And UDFA can turn into good players, like Tony Romo, Tyson Thompson or Sam Hurd, to name a few. A guy called Jeff Saturday went undrafted, I'm sure the Colts are complaining about that.
The only complainment for me is that we didn't adress CB in the draft, but with Newman coming back for the RS we should be ok.

Next week will be boring, the final game of the PS is when most of the starters rest and when the play they're not playing full speed.

Modano, I love UDFA. Sometimes you get very very very lucky (Romo). Wouldn't want to build a roster with UDFA and Vet Retreads.

And BTW, the 3rd game is the MOST improtant game of the preseason. We came out flat and played poorly in all phases of the game. No emotion. Poor execution and now the EXCUSES..........

Just compare the Colts last night v. the Cowboys. Colts played excellent in spite of bad pre-season play and the Cowboys........

This team does not get it -- anywhere in the ogranization. Not yet anyway.

[robert_in_bigd]

And the worst part is I have to hear from the Texan fans ... at least until they are in last place again.

[Gribble]

Off-track is what Paul did by doing a "woaaaaa is us b/c ESPB hates the Cowboys and over evaluate their flaws"

So, Gribble, instead of saying "Paul, you are incorrect," you decide to pursue my post by saying I did not understand what Paul wrote.

I 100% understood what Paul wrote and meant. And he is incorrect.

Tks.

You know what... whatever. You have your own little world.

[robert_in_bigd]

You didn't understand that he was just joking...

That is sheer BS and you are making that up to back off your post.

He was dead serious. Not the first, or last time, kids here "feel" that ESPN is "prejudice" versus the Cowboys.

Fact is the media made Romo a star last year, sent him to the Pro-Bowl and got him laid more time than the sheets at the (Paris) Hilton.

The media did not play horrid QB in Seattle and did not fumble the game winning FG snap.

Romo (and Cowboy fans) should be quite happy over the relatively positive coverage we still get.

[robert_in_bigd]

You know what... whatever. You have your own little world.

Yeah, me, ESPN and the facts are in our "little" world.

But Cowboy fannies on this website are "well rounded and balanced."

ROTLFMAO.

Like denying the NY Times does not slant left and FoxNews right.

[Gribble]

That is sheer BS and you are making that up to back off your post.

He was dead serious. Not the first, or last time, kids here "feel" that ESPN is "prejudice" versus the Cowboys.

Fact is the media made Romo a star last year, sent him to the Pro-Bowl and got him laid more time than the sheets at the (Paris) Hilton.

The media did not play horrid QB in Seattle and did not fumble the game winning FG snap.

Romo (and Cowboy fans) should be quite happy over the relatively positive coverage we still get.

Then the media crucified him when he wasn't throwing for 300 yards and 3 TDs a game.

I just don't care about what you say anymore. It's like arguing with Skip Bayless: pointless and you feel a little dumber afterward.

[robert_in_bigd]

Then the media crucified him when he wasn't throwing for 300 yards and 3 TDs a game.

I just don't care about what you say anymore. It's like arguing with Skip Bayless.

Oh grow up. Romo was over hyped on the way up so of course they are going to pay attention on the way down ... particularly given the Parcells sub-plot trying to ride a novice UDFA to playoffs wins and a SB shot on a marquee NFL team.

How soon we forget there was a 2 week period last year every guy in ESPN thought the Cowboys were going to the the SB with Romo. To unravel the way they did left the team and the ex-coach with a black mark on their record.

You sound like one of the million winey babies who want gold stars in school for C level work. This is Barney thinking.

ESPN hypes to sell what is hot. That Cowboys collapse was "hot" news last year and Romo was dead center ..... and this year it will be "Which Romo shows up?" and "Can Romo over come the heart break of the fumble?"

So please, grow a pair.

PS, On Bayless -- personally it is not that he argues points. It is that they are stupid analyses he present to argue his point. Like Gosselin saying Romo is the 22nd QB or that we don't have one Top 50 OLinemen. Or dumb ass Eric Allen saying Rex Grossman is a "franchise QB" based on the 3rd pre-season game results inspite of the regular season results.

Stupid is stupid..

[pocketaces]

PS, On RobertinbigD-- personally it is not that he argues points. It is that they are stupid analyses he present to argue his point. Like Gosselin saying Romo is the 22nd QB or that we don't have one Top 50 OLinemen. Or dumb ass Eric Allen saying Rex Grossman is a "franchise QB" based on the 3rd pre-season game results inspite of the regular season results.

Stupid is stupid.. Here Here

But were still going 11-5 right?

[Gribble]

Oh grow up. Romo was over hyped on the way up so of course they are going to pay attention on the way down ... particularly given the Parcells sub-plot trying to ride a novice UDFA to playoffs wins and a SB shot on a marquee NFL team.

How soon we forget there was a 2 week period last year every guy in ESPN thought the Cowboys were going to the the SB with Romo. To unravel the way they did left the team and the ex-coach with a black mark on their record.

You sound like one of the million winey babies who want gold stars in school for C level work. This is Barney thinking.

ESPN hypes to sell what is hot. That Cowboys collapse was "hot" news last year and Romo was dead center ..... and this year it will be "Which Romo shows up?" and "Can Romo over come the heart break of the fumble?"

So please, grow a pair.

PS, On Bayless -- personally it is not that he argues points. It is that they are stupid analyses he present to argue his point. Like Gosselin saying Romo is the 22nd QB or that we don't have one Top 50 OLinemen. Or dumb ass Eric Allen saying Rex Grossman is a "franchise QB" based on the 3rd pre-season game results inspite of the regular season results.

Stupid is stupid..

The thing I have with Bayless is how his opinions become jaded and trite even when new evidence proves otherwise. Plus, he argues his arguments to such an absolute level that he is just exasperating. It reminds me of what you're doing here in that it's not about coming up with the best information and getting all the evidence and opinion you can, it's about "winning' the argument and that's just puts people the wrong way. Just to ask: Do you think that calling people "whiny babies" and telling them their arguments are "Barney level" is productive to good discussion?

Cowboy fans... Have fun without me posting in this forum.

[Modano]

And BTW, the 3rd game is the MOST improtant game of the preseason. We came out flat and played poorly in all phases of the game. No emotion. Poor execution and now the EXCUSES..........

They played with no emotion probably because it's a meaningless preseason game? Last year when we played the Texans - with Bledsoe starting - we dominate them, because that was a regular season game. There's no way the Texans can beat us in a real game, zero chances. I still don't care about preseason or our player showing no emotion, they don't have to show emotion during the preseason.
I will start to say if a player is performing well or no when the regular season starts.
San Diego almost lost to the Cardinals, Baltimore lost to the Redskins without registering a single sack, Denver lost to Cleveland, the Raiders won against the Rams.
Even if the 3rd game is the most important of the preseason, for me it means nothing. I don't blame player for playing without emotion during the PS, yu don't want to get hurt and you don't want to hurt other players.

[fryman]

lol who would have guessed this thread would turn into Rob in BigD thinking he has more NFL knowledge than people in the NFL?

Robert for your sake I hope you are either pretty young or this is only how you act on the internet.

[pocketaces]

They played with no emotion probably because it's a meaningless preseason game? Last year when we played the Texans - with Bledsoe starting - we dominate them, because that was a regular season game. There's no way the Texans can beat us in a real game, zero chances. I still don't care about preseason or our player showing no emotion, they don't have to show emotion during the preseason.
I will start to say if a player is performing well or no when the regular season starts.
San Diego almost lost to the Cardinals, Baltimore lost to the Redskins without registering a single sack, Denver lost to Cleveland, the Raiders won against the Rams.
Even if the 3rd game is the most important of the preseason, for me it means nothing. I don't blame player for playing without emotion during the PS, yu don't want to get hurt and you don't want to hurt other players.

How dare you try to make perfect sense to a hater.

[pocketaces]

lol who would have guessed this thread would turn into Rob in BigD thinking he has more NFL knowledge than people in the NFL?

Robert for your sake I hope you are either pretty young or this is only how you act on the internet.


I don't know why he's not a N.F.L. G.M. He has all the answers.

[Paul]

Well, I did not expect that one post would do all that, Ha. I didn't happen to catch the ESPN highlights, but if they didn't do what I thought, then fine good. I was more referencing Merrill Hodges statement a week earlier after the Broncos game, when he called Romo inconsistent and erratic, when he saw the one pick he threw. It was obvious to me, he did not watch the whole game, since Romo did play well and made his passes throughout. It seemed he saw one highlight and made his judgments based on that. Now that I don't understand. There is no animosity towards ESPN from me. They give cowboys plenty of love, sometimes even overrating them a bit. But the likes of Merill Hodge, Sean "I hate TO" Salisbury, and Skip "The Anti-Christ" Bayless, do make it hard watch at times.

[LSUALUM99]

I don't fault Robert in Big D. If I recall correctly he's 15 or maybe 16 years old now. If that recollection is correct it makes perfect sense. I knew everything at 16 also. In fact, I think I knew everything up until the age 20 or so. So, he's got 4 or 5 more years of infinite knowledge. I don't blame him for berrating everyone, given that he has infinite knowledge about everything for the next half decade.

[bigbluedefense]

How did Carpenter do? I didnt get to see the game.

How about Okeye? And Mario? I think Schaub is gonna do big things in Houston. Theyre 2 to 3 years away from being legit.

[FinChase]

How did Carpenter do? I didnt get to see the game.

How about Okeye? And Mario? I think Schaub is gonna do big things in Houston. Theyre 2 to 3 years away from being legit.

Carpenter didn't do much on the outside. He looked more active when they played him on the inside in the second half, but that may be due to the fact that most of Houston's running plays went inside.

I didn't notice Okaye much, but Mario got some pressure and I believe he had a sack.

I must admit Schaub did look good. If they can give him some protection he may do well. Of course, five years ago I thought David Carr looked like the real deal also, so who knows?

[LSUALUM99]

How did Carpenter do? I didnt get to see the game.

How about Okeye? And Mario? I think Schaub is gonna do big things in Houston. Theyre 2 to 3 years away from being legit.

Okoye didn't have his name called the entire game (he played into the third quarter) but Mario looked pretty active. He had 1 sack and almost had 1 more. Ryans looked pretty good. All in all, the front seven for Houston looks pretty decent with Mario, Travis Johnson, DeMeco Ryans and now Okoye also. I think they'll have a pretty good defense this year or next.

Carpenter looked very pedestrian. I wasn't overly impressed with him.

[robert_in_bigd]

PS, On RobertinbigD-- personally it is not that he argues points. It is that they are stupid analyses he present to argue his point. Like Gosselin saying Romo is the 22nd QB or that we don't have one Top 50 OLinemen. Or dumb ass Eric Allen saying Rex Grossman is a "franchise QB" based on the 3rd pre-season game results inspite of the regular season results.

Stupid is stupid.. Here Here

But were still going 11-5 right?

What does 11-5 have to do with anything with my post? Please elaborate.

Regardless, after last night and unfortunately seeing some of the same issues on D from last year .... 9-7.

[robert_in_bigd]

The thing I have with Bayless is how his opinions become jaded and trite even when new evidence proves otherwise. Plus, he argues his arguments to such an absolute level that he is just exasperating. It reminds me of what you're doing here in that it's not about coming up with the best information and getting all the evidence and opinion you can, it's about "winning' the argument and that's just puts people the wrong way. Just to ask: Do you think that calling people "whiny babies" and telling them their arguments are "Barney level" is productive to good discussion?

Cowboy fans... Have fun without me posting in this forum.

Bye, CYA, Anything else I can add?

[robert_in_bigd]

Okoye didn't have his name called the entire game (he played into the third quarter) but Mario looked pretty active. He had 1 sack and almost had 1 more. Ryans looked pretty good. All in all, the front seven for Houston looks pretty decent with Mario, Travis Johnson, DeMeco Ryans and now Okoye also. I think they'll have a pretty good defense this year or next.

Carpenter looked very pedestrian. I wasn't overly impressed with him.

Ditto. Burnett however is turning some heads.

[robert_in_bigd]

They played with no emotion probably because it's a meaningless preseason game? Last year when we played the Texans - with Bledsoe starting - we dominate them, because that was a regular season game. There's no way the Texans can beat us in a real game, zero chances. I still don't care about preseason or our player showing no emotion, they don't have to show emotion during the preseason.
I will start to say if a player is performing well or no when the regular season starts.
San Diego almost lost to the Cardinals, Baltimore lost to the Redskins without registering a single sack, Denver lost to Cleveland, the Raiders won against the Rams.
Even if the 3rd game is the most important of the preseason, for me it means nothing. I don't blame player for playing without emotion during the PS, yu don't want to get hurt and you don't want to hurt other players.

It goes without saying Preseason is what it is. But you use it to solve issues. We may still have many of the same as last year.

[robert_in_bigd]

I don't fault Robert in Big D. If I recall correctly he's 15 or maybe 16 years old now. If that recollection is correct it makes perfect sense. I knew everything at 16 also. In fact, I think I knew everything up until the age 20 or so. So, he's got 4 or 5 more years of infinite knowledge. I don't blame him for berrating everyone, given that he has infinite knowledge about everything for the next half decade.

Just not a rah rah homer as most are. Here is the sample of rah-rah puke

1) Romo is having a very good preseason in spite of the fact that in the pocket he trhows off his back foot way too much .... those passes get knocked down or pick off.

2) Romo is picked on by the media. No need to go further given all the positive press he gets.

3) Roy Williams is great in the box -- but can't tackle Ahman Green

.... and so on.

[pocketaces]

What does 11-5 have to do with anything with my post? Please elaborate.

Regardless, after last night and unfortunately seeing some of the same issues on D from last year .... 9-7.


Man I hope we dont lose to Minn. Thursday or we'll be 6-10 again

[pocketaces]

What does 11-5 have to do with anything with my post? Please elaborate.

Regardless, after last night and unfortunately seeing some of the same issues on D from last year .... 9-7.


I'll make a wager with you... I am a homer and proud of it. I also have bigger expectations than you do. So here's the bet... If Dallas wins 9 games or less I'll never post on this site again, but if they win 10 or more then you leave never to be heard from again. Deal?

[LonghornsLegend]

Hurd is a complete stud, but as far as schaub picking our D apart, i wouldnt worry too much about it...


one td was andre johnson one on one with glenn, in the red zone on a slant, he just man handled him in the end zone, without newman things like that are expected and it doesnt really bother me, what does bother me is seeing roy come into the play like a wrecking ball and not wrap up, he's been playing too long to not know better then that...also crayton looked impressive again, our WR group is very solid

[M.O.T.H.]

Roy rarely wraps up...I've yet to see this game...I completely forgot it was on again today.

[robert_in_bigd]

Man I hope we dont lose to Minn. Thursday or we'll be 6-10 again

No pocket, game 4 is not a big deal normally. Usually only backups play.

But hey, still think 9-7. Sorry. (*hoping for 19-0*)

[robert_in_bigd]

I'll make a wager with you... I am a homer and proud of it. I also have bigger expectations than you do. So here's the bet... If Dallas wins 9 games or less I'll never post on this site again, but if they win 10 or more then you leave never to be heard from again. Deal?

Dynamic IP makes that a stupid bet at best. Good luck. We both want the same thing.

[robert_in_bigd]

Hurd is a complete stud, but as far as schaub picking our D apart, i wouldnt worry too much about it...


one td was andre johnson one on one with glenn, in the red zone on a slant, he just man handled him in the end zone, without newman things like that are expected and it doesnt really bother me, what does bother me is seeing roy come into the play like a wrecking ball and not wrap up, he's been playing too long to not know better then that...also crayton looked impressive again, our WR group is very solid

Johnson will do that all day to every team in the NFL. Have to just avoid being in that situation. I think he is the best WR in the NFL personally. Runs all the ***** ass routes and has home run skills.

BTW, in addition to Roy Williams usual silliness, Bradie James (while active and quicker) gave up some big plays by not being in the right place -- evidence the Ahman Green run where he did not play contain and at least one scream pass where he was 5 yards behind the play because he over pursued.

I guess this is the downside to all the "freedom" BS the players love to talk about in the Wade 3-4. Plus what happened to Spears and Canty ...... mucho talk and little results.

[Modano]

I think that even if we start the season 5-0 you'll have something to complain about..

By the way, PS is what it is and is not a good way to judge how a team will play in the RS. It's a good thing too see the rookies play and something like that, but it doesn't show much about what a team is going to do on sundays. First, you use very little part of the playbook because you don't want to show your best plays to your opponents, second, you don't have ANY reason to play with emotion. Ladainian Tomlinson doesn't play in the preseason, is this an indication of the fact that he doesn't want to get hit or tire his legs in a meaningless game, or that he shows no emotion?
A veteran player knows that the season is at least 16 weeks long, they know the season is hard, why the should play hard in the preseason when they are going to suffer pain and sacrifice their body for all that time? Why should they show emotion, you're not motivated to play against the freacking Texans in the preseason, and motivation is very important in football. You're not gonna sacrifice your body if you're not motivated.
That's the reason why a guy like LT doesn't play in the PS but he's the guy with the most heart on sundays.

Only the Redskins from our division won their game in "the most important week of the preseason". Is that indicative of something? Hell no. Kyle Orton seemed good in the PS and was absolutely crap when the RS started.

And even supposing that you're right and that we should understand we some of the same problems of last year, our offense is good enough to win a lot of games, and our defense is better than the majority of the defense of last year's playoffs teams.

[robert_in_bigd]

I think that even if we start the season 5-0 you'll have something to complain about...

And if we start 2-3????

By the way, PS is what it is and is not a good way to judge how a team will play in the RS. It's a good thing too see the rookies play and something like that, but it doesn't show much about what a team is going to do on sundays. ...

Looked to me like starters getting wupped on Saturday.

First, you use very little part of the playbook because you don't want to show your best plays to your opponents,

Not when you are installing a new Passing system and D system.

second, you don't have ANY reason to play with emotion.

Like against the Lions last year? Fact is this team is lazy and needs the push to get going.

Ladainian Tomlinson doesn't play in the preseason, is this an indication of the fact that he doesn't want to get hit or tire his legs in a meaningless game, or that he shows no emotion?

LT is a proven star, other than TO, not one player on our roster deserves that "benefit of the doubt." Particularly guys like Spears, Roy and Bradie....

A veteran player knows that the season is at least 16 weeks long, they know the season is hard, why the should play hard in the preseason when they are going to suffer pain and sacrifice their body for all that time? Why should they show emotion, you're not motivated to play against the freacking Texans in the preseason, and motivation is very important in football. You're not gonna sacrifice your body if you're not motivated.

We have a young team. We should play hard all the time. We are not the New England Patriots yet. Cruise control not an option.

That's the reason why a guy like LT doesn't play in the PS but he's the guy with the most heart on sundays.

Who knows and who cares. He is the best player in football and produces.

Only the Redskins from our division won their game in "the most important week of the preseason".

And this bodes well for us how? What does their performance have to do with us playing to potential?? They suck worse than us?? leave Eagles out -- they go to the playoffs and win regularly. This group of Cowboy clowns do not.

Is that indicative of something? Hell no. Kyle Orton seemed good in the PS and was absolutely crap when the RS started.

Kyle Orton is not a team. I am talking about the fact (as the DMN media is now saying) this TEAM falls flat in anything that counts. Most important preseason game -- failure on Offense, Special Teams and D, Most important game last year in Seattle-- failure on Offense and failure by Ryy to cover Stevens. Most important regular season game last year v. Philly -- we got killed.

So ........ this team is filled with under achievers. I want this changed.

And even supposing that you're right and that we should understand we some of the same problems of last year, our offense is good enough to win a lot of games, and our defense is better than the majority of the defense of last year's playoffs teams.

I hope so. I think we have the PHYSICAL talent to win it all. The character and brains our this team however are in question.

[duckseason]

Looked to me like starters getting wupped on Saturday.
You're right. Terence Newman, Terry Glenn and Greg Ellis all got whupped pretty bad out there Saturday. Knowing that these are 3 of our best players and team leaders, this has me very concerned. Despite their ineptitude, imagine how bad we'd have looked had they not played!

Give it a rest man. Your whole post just reeks of far too much unwarranted pessimism. Do you expect perfection? Hell, the current Super Bowl Champs had a lot more to be concerned about last year than we do now, or likely will at any point in the upcoming season. That team was far from perfect. Looked downright horrible at times on defense. One of the most feeble single game performances I've ever seen. And that was in the middle of the playoff race. But, they showed up when it counted, which in the end, is all that matters in this game. This is the PRE-season. Had this been opening week at home vs the Giants, then your concerns would hold a bit of merit. As it is, you're crying wolf at the site of a field mouse.

[M.O.T.H.]

okay...so, this game is on again at 4 ET. NFL Network.

[Burns336]

**Dark Spots**

Sadly, I am beggining to listen and agree with some of the things being said about roy being overrated. He just hasn't been the same since we switched into this 3-4 when parcells took over and the loss of darren woodson hindered his development.

One of the main reasons I have lost faith in roy is that he wasn't able to lead the secondary. You would think if a player is as great as we think roy is, we wouldnt have to bring in ken hamlin to run the secondary... you would think roy could step up and handle it himself. After all, he is supposed to be one of the best right?

Marcus spears is a bust, he's lost his confidence (not sure if he had any to begin with) and this is evident with him now telling reporters to "dont label us yet, dont put a tag on us" referring to the bust tag. Our starting DE's are poor and dont generate half of the pressure that is expected of them -- and dont tell me its pre-season and they aren't trying because Jason Ferguson seems to have adapted just fine and is showing what this defense can do with the proper players inserted into it. I would like to see Canty/Hatcher/Ratliff getting a majority of the snaps with spears on the bench. its time for us to just eat his contract and let him rot unless someone else wants him. Spear's also told reporters to give him time because this is a new defense and he isn't used to it yet --- What? I thought we just got done listening to spears rave about how this defense plays to his strengths all through mini camps, training camp, and preseason and now that he hasnt done anything he needs more time? yeah ok spears, you need time on the bench to go cry about how parcells broke you down.

We will not survive this season unless we have T-new at 100%. Our secondary is below average without him and only has the ability to cover #2's at best. We need him back, lets keep our fingers crossed.

Burnett was injured again. They said he wont miss any practice and is isn't a big deal but I just dont like hearing those words in the same sentance. Lets keep our fingers crossed on that as well.

I still see our pass rush as being a problem. The cowbys apparently went back to playing a vanilla defense against houston and it showed. Let's hope spencer pans out and gives defenses something to worry about other than ware because it doesn't look like ellis is going to be back and wade said flat our that Carp cant rush the passer.

**Bright spots**

I happen to like Romo alot and it will take a little more real game evidence for robert to get me to begin to listen about Romo's problem with his feet. I like what he's done and I think we need to remember he hasn't even had full season starting yet. I expect big things from him.

Just like I called for Romo last year, and took alot of heat from most of you on this board who were banking on bledsoe, I am calling for Burnett this year. If he can stay healthy, there is no reason for him to not be in the game. I want everyone to remember me predicting him to be a great player. (and if im wrong ill take my beating like a man). Burnett is a play maker and is someone who can actually generate a pass rush, cover the middle of the field, and just make plays. The dude is just a play maker.

with the exception of the houston game, i think the 3 headed monster of Jones-Barber-Thompson have looked good and i expect production to exceed last years numbers. JJ needs to step up big time, especially in this contract year and barber just needs to keep doing what he is doing. I am rooting for these guys to make an impact so jerry wont have to draft mcfadden next year. i would love to have him, but i would also love to have a CB/LT or DE in the first round.

I like the oline with the exception of kosier. I never understood this move and probably never will. I wish we would have held onto allen. I dont care about his so called diminishing skills -- what i care about is him not getting blown off the line and dominated like kosier does. We do need to cut down on mistakes. We had no penalties in the first few games, then houston applies a little pressure, and we start creating problems for ourselves. This needs to stop.

Love the Wr's. These guys are the strongest and deepest position on the team.

[DSlay4]

I dont think its time to panic yet, but there are a few things Im concerned about.


1.Tony Romo - Still looks shaky in the pocket, but he looks excellent of play actions, so getting the running game going is a must for us

2. Julius Jones - Despite his comments still runs like a robot...and a girl

3. Marcus Spears - Im giving up on him. Hes a bust.

4. Phillips 3/4 - Although it gets tremendous pressure against the QB it is susceptible in the run game. Mainly because players are not required to fill there gaps.

5. D Ware - I think he is better suited for the Parcells 3/4. One reason for this is that he is the OLB against the run and knows how to keep containment. Also he is our best LB in coverage, so i certainly dont wanna see him blitzing every down

But honestly, i think we'll be fine as long we get the running game going, as it seems like our offense is going to be a bit methodical. And TNew must come back at 100% for us to win

[M.O.T.H.]

Marcus Spears is under more pressure to produce this season than any other...he may wine but, he does need to be given a little time. How about we actually wait until we see him play in a meaningful game before, we start declaring him this or that. We still have to be patient...if he doesnt produce this year...call him what you will but, atleast give him atleast the actually season not the preseason ro prove himself as a legitimate player in this league.

Julius is hitting holes much harder than he did last season...he's been going down easy again at times...arm tackles and single player hits but, he is hitting the holes harder...we have a different O-Line in every week...we cant blame everything on Julius. I expect to see a better player this season.

We're going to be fine...there is no reason to panic after a preseason loss. We didnt have T-New and we have yet to see Wade's defense in it's entirety...we've seen a different piece in every game. I think it's funny how people are already pushing the panic button after one subpar shpwing in a meaningless game. This is where the little kinks get corrected...no need to worry just yet.

[LonghornsLegend]

well the whole spears being a bust thing....least we can say is we hit the jackpot with almost ALL of our first rd defensive picks, bust come in this league by the plenty, spears has talent just hasnt showed it...

sad thing is, if we could actually have a consistent pass rusher at DE it would create alot more qb hurries, i like hatcher but im pretty upset IF spears doesnt do something this season, im giving him one last season, not preseason, but this season seeing what he can do...if he bust, it happens and it always stings...

but like modano said, our offense should have no problem scoring points, and our defense is alot better then alot of offensive minded teams in the NFC like the saints for instance, so if we can bring pressure i think we will be ok

[Burns336]

Marcus Spears is under more pressure to produce this season than any other...he may wine but, he does need to be given a little time. How about we actually wait until we see him play in a meaningful game before, we start declaring him this or that. We still have to be patient...if he doesnt produce this year...call him what you will but, atleast give him atleast the actually season not the preseason ro prove himself as a legitimate player in this league.

Julius is hitting holes much harder than he did last season...he's been going down easy again at times...arm tackles and single player hits but, he is hitting the holes harder...we have a different O-Line in every week...we cant blame everything on Julius. I expect to see a better player this season.

We're going to be fine...there is no reason to panic after a preseason loss. We didnt have T-New and we have yet to see Wade's defense in it's entirety...we've seen a different piece in every game. I think it's funny how people are already pushing the panic button after one subpar shpwing in a meaningless game. This is where the little kinks get corrected...no need to worry just yet.


it would be easier for me if spears had done something of note, but all I can think of is recoving a fumble that cutler dropped in front of him. He isnt like Julius or Carp who I am willing to give some time to because they have shown signs and had flashes of being good in the past. Spears has done nothing in the past, nothing now, and is constantly dominated. Everything that I have read said that spears has been getting blown off the line, isn't getting pressure, and isnt containing the RB on his side. -- Translation: spears takes up space and does absolutely nothing.

Like ive said before, id love for him to show up sometime soon but I dont think its going to happen.

[M.O.T.H.]

Just give it some time...if there is one player I'm actually concerned about...outside of T-New of course, that would be Bobby Carpenter. The man had one good game and just seems to disappear at times. He is raw...not the polished product I thought we would be getting. He may be covering our TEs well in practice but, on gameday he looks like our slowest LB...he's very indecisive at times...he needs a lot of work still.

[Burns336]

Just give it some time...if there is one player I'm actually concerned about...outside of T-New of course, that would be Bobby Carpenter. The man had one good game and just seems to disappear at times. He is raw...not the polished product I thought we would be getting. He may be covering our TEs well in practice but, on gameday he looks like our slowest LB...he's very indecisive at times...he needs a lot of work still.

Another player that I pointed out as a guy who I think will not live up to his draft status, but am willing to reserve my judgement on because he has been shifted around so much. Personally I feel like Carpenter needed to be with Parcells to succeed. He was drafted by parcells and was a parcells guy. Tough worker, willing to do the small things, and play parcells 3-4... I dont really think he fits into wade's scheme to be quite honest. Either way, im willing to give carp time to settle in to 1 position before i judge him, but I'd like for us to figure out where that is soon.

[M.O.T.H.]

So, I'm watching the game right now...still in the 1st.

Ken Hamlin having problems covering Owen Daniels...he had a good three steps on him both times...

Julius has looked great.

[Burns336]

So, I'm watching the game right now...still in the 1st.

Ken Hamlin having problems covering Owen Daniels...he had a good three steps on him both times...

Julius has looked great.

Hadn't heard anything good or bad of hamlin yet, but that is discouraging

[M.O.T.H.]

Somebody no one is talking about is Bradie James...wow, he's been laying the wood in this game and has been performing at a very high level in each pre season game.

Edit: 1st half almost over. Bradie has been making plays all over the field, he's looking fast out there, I def. like what I see. He should have two sacks, instead he has none but, he's been in the backfield a couple of times in this game.

[M.O.T.H.]

More observations...1st half.

Texans run defense was great in this game.

Aaron Glenn looked old, hesitant, and slow at times.

It was more better QB play by Schaub than bad secondary play on our part. (Schaub was great) Reeves was just flat out beat by Jacoby Jones on Schaub's 2nd TD.

Our pass blocking was alright, they've been better...run blocking...meh.

Julius Jones looked solid...Marion had no where to run.

Sam Hurd could have been mistaken for T.O. in this game...Hurd also played well on ST.

Gramatica lost the kicking job.

Hamlin was having coverage problems.

Outside of Ahman's long run (Roy didnt wrap up), run defense was good.

Our kickoff team is garbage...KR/PR we got nothing either.

Bradie James should have a huge year.

[bigbluedefense]

I think Bobby Carpenter's development is gonna be ruined. I think, like many of you say, that he was a specific player for the BP 3-4. I don't think he can play 3-4 ILB very well, I just don't see it. He really has no fit in this scheme.

And now, his SAM abilities have dropped off because of his weight loss. Yeah, of course he can't rush the passer this year Wade, he weighs 240. I felt he shouldve packed on another 5 to 8 pounds in the offseason and continued his development as a SAM in the BP 3-4. Thats when he was at his best. But now, with all this moving around, and scheme change, I don't think he's gonna work in Dallas. And drafting a pass rusher in this draft all but assures that he's not moving back to SAM, so youre pretty much stuck.

If Im Dallas, Id try to trade him to the Jets or Browns while he still has value. Because he has no fit in Dallas.

[Burns336]

I think Bobby Carpenter's development is gonna be ruined. I think, like many of you say, that he was a specific player for the BP 3-4. I don't think he can play 3-4 ILB very well, I just don't see it. He really has no fit in this scheme.

And now, his SAM abilities have dropped off because of his weight loss. Yeah, of course he can't rush the passer this year Wade, he weighs 240. I felt he shouldve packed on another 5 to 8 pounds in the offseason and continued his development as a SAM in the BP 3-4. Thats when he was at his best. But now, with all this moving around, and scheme change, I don't think he's gonna work in Dallas. And drafting a pass rusher in this draft all but assures that he's not moving back to SAM, so youre pretty much stuck.

If Im Dallas, Id try to trade him to the Jets or Browns while he still has value. Because he has no fit in Dallas.

Im leaning towards thinking he doesn't fit the scheme. he was parcells guy

[Burns336]

These are some Q&A's from wade's press conf. today... Sounds like Burnett is getting noticed and may actually be making a run at Ayodeles spot. Very good to hear.




Burnett an injury-prone player?
He’s been banged up with a concussion, now the bone chip, be he’ll be back in a couple of days ... or maybe a week. (Laughter) He’ll have surgery tomorrow. (Injury-problem label?) I had a guy before, he had two knee operations in one year, then another the next year, but he came back to have a good career. Guys get banged-up, I don’t know the reason.

Was he pushing Akin Ayodele?
He’s played well, had some big hits, he covers in our dime package. He’s done a good job moving from the outside to the inside.

What do you lose with Burnett out?
Man-to-man skills, we can put him on a TE or a back. We utilize what he can do, he got a sack in game rushing from the outside because he's so fast. Helps us do a lot of things, we didn’t do quite as well on 3rd down after he went out, we didn’t rush as well.

[M.O.T.H.]

Urban's first punt return was awful...he ran sideways. ugh. He sure has seen a lot of time back there. Hasnt been impressive at all this preseason.

Romo's int was a very poor decision...threw it deep into double coverage. Romo has great accuracy but, he doesnt need to force a stupid throw like that...that's the biggest knock on him. When he learns how to protect the ball a little better, that's when I believe he becomes one of the elite QB's in this league. Other than the pick, he had a nice game...completed over 60%...he was a little off at the beginning but, he settled in.

[robert_in_bigd]

Im leaning towards thinking he doesn't fit the scheme. he was parcells guy

We should cut all the Parcells guys or make them switch positions to see if they are better there.

[robert_in_bigd]

You're right. Terence Newman, Terry Glenn and Greg Ellis all got whupped pretty bad out there Saturday.

Love the sarcasm but .....

Better get used to not having them around smarty pants. Plus, all teams have injuries.

[robert_in_bigd]

Somebody no one is talking about is Bradie James...wow, he's been laying the wood in this game and has been performing at a very high level in each pre season game.

Edit: 1st half almost over. Bradie has been making plays all over the field, he's looking fast out there, I def. like what I see. He should have two sacks, instead he has none but, he's been in the backfield a couple of times in this game.


How about the 46 yard run to Green cuz he did not play contain?

[robert_in_bigd]

1.Tony Romo - Still looks shaky in the pocket, but he looks excellent of play actions, so getting the running game going is a must for us

THrowing off his back foot too much. Seems bothered by pressure up the middle.... like Bledsoe.

2. Julius Jones - Despite his comments still runs like a robot...and a girl

3. Marcus Spears - Im giving up on him. Hes a bust.

4. Phillips 3/4 - Although it gets tremendous pressure against the QB it is susceptible in the run game. Mainly because players are not required to fill there gaps.

5. D Ware - I think he is better suited for the Parcells 3/4. One reason for this is that he is the OLB against the run and knows how to keep containment. Also he is our best LB in coverage, so i certainly dont wanna see him blitzing every down

But honestly, i think we'll be fine as long we get the running game going, as it seems like our offense is going to be a bit methodical. And TNew must come back at 100% for us to win

Great points. Honest too.

[M.O.T.H.]

How about the 46 yard run to Green cuz he did not play contain?

That was the only bad thing Bradie did this preseason...he read the play wrong....hey, it happens. Roy Williams should have had him wrapped up, Ahman ran right into him...the run was Roy's fault more than any others. Roy looking to lay the big hit instead of wrapping up the ball carrier.

[M.O.T.H.]

You obiviously didnt watch the Texans game if you think Julius runs like a robot or a "girl"...he hit holes real hard and was making fantastic cuts...he was taking shots too...he wasnt going down on arm tackles in this game. He played very well...like i said the stats may not reflect it yet but, he should play well this year.

[thule]

You obiviously didnt watch the Texans game if you think Julius runs like a robot or a "girl"...he hit holes real hard and was making fantastic cuts...he was taking shots too...he wasnt going down on arm tackles in this game. He played very well...like i said the stats may not reflect it yet but, he should play well this year.

I still think JJ is one of the worst starting backs in the league for yards after contact...

[thule]

My thoughts on the game.

For some reason I loved this game. I thought we played great football. Erase a couple of plays and this game is a blowout the other way. I just felt that this was a game we weren't going to win. We played well just had things go the other way.

The Good

Tony Romo looked sharp...had a bad throw on 3rd and short to Crayton but other than that I liked what I saw....his last pass to TO wasn't great but you take chances over a game...
Running Backs ran hard
TE's got open over the course of the game
WR's ran good routes not many drops
OL gave romo time to get throws off
DL held at the point of attack more often than not
LB's flowed to the ball really well got decent pressure
CB's made plays they were suppose to make....
S kept everything in front of them

The Bad

Romo didn't make it through his progressions a couple of times...locked in occasionally
RB's didn't make plays after contact...
WR's seemed to get lazy on their routes if they knew the ball wasn't coming their way
TE's weren't as active across the middle today
OL failed to get good initial push on run plays..pass blocking was spotty
DL only got pressure up the middle...stunt/slants didn't get upfield
LB's got to the hole fine...just didn't make the plays occasionally
CB seemed to be playing 10 yards off the ball quite a bit which lead to quick slants and shoulder fades on occasion
tackling was spotty

Overall Game Thoughts
The Good

Great pursuit in this game no complaints there.
Came out fired up and made plays

The Bad

Penalties killed a couple drives
Got some bad breaks(ware hold on 3rd down or block in back on punt return)
Special teams coverage overall just need to take better angles

We Win the Game if....

block in the back gets called on the punt return
Flozell and Big Davis don't jump when we have 1st down on the 45
Roy wraps up Green and we have 3rd and short
Romo hits Crayton in stride on 3rd and short

Random Notes
Wade said in his presser had this been a regular season game we would have passed a ton. That was pretty apparent we were efficient through the air. He just wanted to address the running game. We also tended to play a more vanilla defense again today. With a gameplan this game isn't even close. I don't see any reason to push the panic button.

[robert_in_bigd]

BBD,

I watched Carpenter on about every play in the Texans game and he was effective in his ILB role.

1 He knows how to play zone.
2 He has the speed to get to the sideline.
3 He was not killed at the POA -- stood up the Guards most of the time. Had some issues sheding. I think he handles Guards better than Tackle who sometimes overwhelm him
4 He was always in the right place. A good sign of mental acuity.

Now, I am not saying he is Urlacher but I think he will be fine. Regardless, I agree a talented player is being screwed with simply because the Cowboys are overloaded at OLB. I also think the Parcells tag is hurting him. Just like folks complained Parcells did not give Campo's guys a chance ...... a coach sees what he wants to see sometimes and values things differently.

A couple of other notes.

1) Spencer is a better rusher from the weak side
2) Burnett is a starter. Don't think any player has been better.
3) No big pass plays all pre-season-- a good sign in regards to safety play
4) Spears could't shed blocks -- looks like Tackles can locked in easily with their arms and he just can shed. Can not remember how many times the Texans ran to his side with 4-5 yard success.
5) Ware's hand usage is getting better. Good luck Eli if this ever happens.
6) We have three starting caliber TEs. Curtis can play and reminds me of LJ Smith from Philly.
7) Romo is not shifting his weight from plant foot to left foot when throwing. He is under throwing some balls and actually having some issues with accuracy on the timing routes where he needs to eecute in the pocket. The INT to Owens in the Texans game is classic. Upon release of the ball his body is 90Degrees to the turf. His weight is not moving forward. All arm. No legs. Like a pitcher with bad mechanics. This is a problem.
8) Julius Jones is horrid. As Thule said, can't shed a tackle to save his life.
9) Barber is fantastic. Not an ideal starter but just a fantastic player.
10) First time around the NFC East the D will give guys problems. Second time watch out for big plays in the middle of the field. We still have issues protecting the middle on 1st and 2nd Down with James and Ayodele in.

[Burns336]

BBD,

I watched Carpenter on about every play in the Texans game and he was effective in his ILB role.

1 He knows how to play zone.
2 He has the speed to get to the sideline.
3 He was not killed at the POA -- stood up the Guards most of the time. Had some issues sheding. I think he handles Guards better than Tackle who sometimes overwhelm him
4 He was always in the right place. A good sign of mental acuity.

Now, I am not saying he is Urlacher but I think he will be fine. Regardless, I agree a talented player is being screwed with simply because the Cowboys are overloaded at OLB. I also think the Parcells tag is hurting him. Just like folks complained Parcells did not give Campo's guys a chance ...... a coach sees what he wants to see sometimes and values things differently.

A couple of other notes.

1) Spencer is a better rusher from the weak side
2) Burnett is a starter. Don't think any player has been better.
3) No big pass plays all pre-season-- a good sign in regards to safety play
4) Spears could't shed blocks -- looks like Tackles can locked in easily with their arms and he just can shed. Can not remember how many times the Texans ran to his side with 4-5 yard success.
5) Ware's hand usage is getting better. Good luck Eli if this ever happens.
6) We have three starting caliber TEs. Curtis can play and reminds me of LJ Smith from Philly.
7) Romo is not shifting his weight from plant foot to left foot when throwing. He is under throwing some balls and actually having some issues with accuracy on the timing routes where he needs to eecute in the pocket. The INT to Owens in the Texans game is classic. Upon release of the ball his body is 90Degrees to the turf. His weight is not moving forward. All arm. No legs. Like a pitcher with bad mechanics. This is a problem.
8) Julius Jones is horrid. As Thule said, can't shed a tackle to save his life.
9) Barber is fantastic. Not an ideal starter but just a fantastic player.
10) First time around the NFC East the D will give guys problems. Second time watch out for big plays in the middle of the field. We still have issues protecting the middle on 1st and 2nd Down with James and Ayodele in.

Hopefully Ayodele gets pushed into a backup role. Im not sure why we never tried rushing him off the edge. He played OLB in jacksonville and I figured somewhere along the line Wade would maybe want to try him out.

The main reason's I can think of for this not happening is A) Wade has no confidence in Carpenter at ILB as a starter and B) Wade has no confidence in Burnett being able to stay healthy for a full season as a starter at ILB.

However, I dont think he is happy with Ayodele. He has gone unnoticed except for the fact that it has been pointed out that he is poor in coverage vs. the TE.

Spears Blows.

All good points rob, although I still havne't had a chance to evaluate this whole throwing off of the back foot thing.

[robert_in_bigd]

All good points rob, although I still havne't had a chance to evaluate this whole throwing off of the back foot thing.

Take a look at it closely. It is a major problem.

He has a good arm but not Elway/Russell/Favre.

His release point has his mid-section going backwards while his shoulders go forward.

Net net -- he is not following through on his pitches to use a baseball term.

[Burns336]

Take a look at it closely. It is a major problem.

He has a good arm but not Elway/Russell/Favre.

His release point has his mid-section going backwards while his shoulders go forward.

Net net -- he is not following through on his pitches to use a baseball term.


I just haven't even seen the last 2 preseason games. We dont get much DC preseason in SD. The Charger bandwagon is at a highpoint coming off of last season so I'm bombarded with news only regarding the Chargers and Mike Vick. Pretty boring. I wish I could watch game film online or something but Im not aware of any way to do that. Either way, Ill check it out against the G-men.

[M.O.T.H.]

I'm not going to quote Thule's post, it's pretty long...but, yeah...I def. agree, we didnt play a bad game at all. If it's a regualr season game...we would have found a way to come out on top. Good points Thule.