I don't want to dwell on Tony Romo's bobbled hold from last January ... in the playoffs ... on a potential game-winning field goal. As a Cowboys fan, however, I'm stuck with it.
And I certainly don't want to hear about how "had he made it into the end zone..." because if you look at all the if only's in the history of the Dallas Cowboys, they would have seven or eight Super Bowl titles, not five.
But when ESPN reported Tony Romo will not be the holder next season for the Cowboys, I was forced to revisit this painful memory of the past NFL postseason.
Romo did a great job this past season stepping into the starting quarterback role for America's Team. He stuggled at times, but for his first full season as a starter, the future looks bright in Big D. More importantly, he didn't bobble any other snaps all season.
So on a rainy night in Seattle (then again, every night in Seattle is a rainy night), he dropped one ball. And I don't think the Cowboys should hold that against him. I know the club is reportedly saying that the move is because he is now the starter (Romo began the season as a backup, thus the role as a holder). But I think everyone knows what this is really about.
One bad hold.
Regardless, the Cowboys should keep Romo as the holder because he is the quarterback. He's the one guy the organization trusts with every snap of the game. Well, okay, it used to be every snap, but next year it'll be just most of the snaps.
Not only does having your QB hold open up the possibility of well-executed fake field goals, but it puts the ball in what should be the most consistent hands on the team.
In regards to this new "Romo rule" where ball-boys cannot hold onto the balls used for field goals - allegedly a ball-boy gave the refs a slicker ball for that final field goal attempt - I don't think that's the reason they lost. I like the new rule, but I'm not pointing fingers at a ball boy.
The Cowboys should hold on to Romo as their holder ... as long as he can hold onto the ball.
Showing posts with label Cowboys 2006. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Cowboys 2006. Show all posts
Friday, March 30, 2007
Monday, January 08, 2007
The Bobble
So a playoff win slipped past the Cowboys and through the fingers of Tony Romo. I'm not gonna lie. It hurt. It hurt a lot. Not just for Romo, but for the entire Cowboys fan base.
We've been waiting for a decade for our next playoff win, and after "the bobble" we must wait at least one more year.
But while many analysts were quick to point to that play as Romo's defining moment this season, I have to disagree.
This year, Romo proved that he has what it takes to be the quarterback in Dallas. Without him, the 'Boys may not have even made the playoffs. Making the Pro Bowl was no fluke; the final five games of the season were.
The Bobble will not be as catastrophic as "The Catch," which not only launched a dynasty but crumbled another at once. Instead, it will most likely be looked back at as Romo's humble beginnings after a career of success.
Will he ever win a Super Bowl? Who knows. That can never be predicted. After all, , Fran Tarkenton, Warren Moon and Dan Marino don't have championship rings while Brad Johnson, Trent Dilfer and Ben Roethlisberger do.
But Dallasites will be able to look back and - perhaps not laugh, but at least - stomach the pain of The Bobble.
Romo has his entire career ahead of him. Cowboys fans can only hope he can hang on for the ride.
We've been waiting for a decade for our next playoff win, and after "the bobble" we must wait at least one more year.
But while many analysts were quick to point to that play as Romo's defining moment this season, I have to disagree.
This year, Romo proved that he has what it takes to be the quarterback in Dallas. Without him, the 'Boys may not have even made the playoffs. Making the Pro Bowl was no fluke; the final five games of the season were.
The Bobble will not be as catastrophic as "The Catch," which not only launched a dynasty but crumbled another at once. Instead, it will most likely be looked back at as Romo's humble beginnings after a career of success.
Will he ever win a Super Bowl? Who knows. That can never be predicted. After all, , Fran Tarkenton, Warren Moon and Dan Marino don't have championship rings while Brad Johnson, Trent Dilfer and Ben Roethlisberger do.
But Dallasites will be able to look back and - perhaps not laugh, but at least - stomach the pain of The Bobble.
Romo has his entire career ahead of him. Cowboys fans can only hope he can hang on for the ride.
HOLDING ON
Anyone who says Romo shouldn't have been holding because he's the starting quarterback is simply wrong. As radical an idea as it was to change quarterbacks in mid-season, and as radical as it was to change kickers, it would have been more radical to switch holders as well.Romo had not had a holding miscue all season long. Next season, I think he should be seven yards behind center to hold again. Having the starting quarterback as the holding always leaves the option for creative and high-probability fakes.
Romo dropped one ball. It was magnified because it was in the playoffs for the most widely known football franchise in America. I would expect him to have the same dual-role next season. He'll once again prove the doubters wrong, and hold on for victory in Dallas.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Aloha America's Team
Pro Bowl selections were announced today, and while Cowboys' quarterback Tony Romo is considered a big surprise by some experts, he is a legit choice.
The biggest knock against Romo is that he didn't start a game until almost half-way through the season (week 8 to be exact). But these same experts say that Romo is the catalyst for the Cowboys sudden take off. They've gone 6-2 with him at the helm (including one wacky loss in Washington - Romo's only road loss).
It seems odd that experts on ESPN and around the country are quick to point out that Romo has only started eight games this year, but no one remembers that Larry Johnson started only nine games last season and still made the Pro Bowl. (Note: Romo will have started 10 regular season games this year if he stays healthy)
No one disagreed with LJ's selection last year despite not coming in as a start until Week 10, so what is the problem with Romo's selection? There isn't one.
Since taking over, however, Romo has put up Pro Bowl numbers:
---183/276 (66%), 2440 yards, 16 TDs, 10 INTs for a QB rating of 98.4 (second best in the NFL)
Also, if you were to multiply Romo's numbers from this season to match if he had played since Week 1, he'd currently have 28 TDs (19 INTs) and 4270 yards, which would lead the league in both catagories (Peyton Manning has 26 TDs, and Drew Brees has 4240 yards).
To put that in perspective of the other Pro Bowl quarterback selections in the NFC:
---Drew Brees: 4240 yards, 25 TDs, 11 INTs for a rating of 98.2
---Marc Bulger: 3665 yards, 19 TDs, 8 INTs for a rating of 89.5
Tony Romo is a Pro Bowl quarterback. He isn't a league MVP, a Hall of Famer or even the next superstar quarterback ... yet, but he's taken the first step this season and deserves this selection.
The other Cowboys' Pro Bowl picks included:
Roy Williams, safety - It's not the big blue star that makes receivers think twice about going over the middle at Texas Stadium. It's the fact that the now-four-time Pro Bowler can make any pass-catcher see stars with one bone-crushing hit.
DeMarcus Ware, linebacker - If you saw his interception of Michael Vick and the touchdown return that ensued, you know why Ware is going to Honolulu.
Mat McBriar, punter - When the Cowboys offense has stalled, McBriar has put opponents' backs to the wall all season. His 48.3 yards per punt is tops in the league.
Stars staying home
Some Dallas Cowboys could arguably be with their four teammates in Hawai'i on Feb. 10, but unless other selections drop out, they won't be making the trip. He's a look at some Cowboys who could have been considered:
Terrell Owens, wide receiver
I know, I know, he's a "big headache," a "distraction," "had an accidental overdose," yada yada yada. The bottom line is that TO is a game-changing receiver. Romo's success is directly related to the flamboyant flanker.
Owens has 11 touchdowns on the season, more than any other NFC Pro Bowl receiver: Torry Holt (10), Donald Driver (7), Steve Smith (6) and Anquan Boldin (4). While Owens has fewer yards than all except Boldin, he's not far behind.
Marion Barber III, running back
He is the NFC's leader in touchdowns with 15. Overall he's tied with Kansas City's LJ for second behind LaDainian Tomlinson (31). He may not get a lot of carries, but when there is dirty work to be done, Big Bill gives the rock to MB3.
The running backs ahead of him are having good seasons. Frank Gore leads the NFC with 1491 rushing yards, and Tiki Barder is on his tail with 1357. Steven Jackson has 1236 yards, but has managed to find the end zone 10 times this season. All three have been called upon to carry the load for their respective teams in crunch time.
Terrance Newman, cornerback
He is emerging as a shut down corner in the NFL. While is not yet at the Champ Bailey level, he has been improving ever since he came into the league. As dallascowboys.com's Mickey Spagnola pointed out, Newman got shafted this season. Look for T-New to make the trip to Hawai'i next February. The guy can play.
The biggest knock against Romo is that he didn't start a game until almost half-way through the season (week 8 to be exact). But these same experts say that Romo is the catalyst for the Cowboys sudden take off. They've gone 6-2 with him at the helm (including one wacky loss in Washington - Romo's only road loss).
It seems odd that experts on ESPN and around the country are quick to point out that Romo has only started eight games this year, but no one remembers that Larry Johnson started only nine games last season and still made the Pro Bowl. (Note: Romo will have started 10 regular season games this year if he stays healthy)
No one disagreed with LJ's selection last year despite not coming in as a start until Week 10, so what is the problem with Romo's selection? There isn't one.
Since taking over, however, Romo has put up Pro Bowl numbers:
---183/276 (66%), 2440 yards, 16 TDs, 10 INTs for a QB rating of 98.4 (second best in the NFL)
Also, if you were to multiply Romo's numbers from this season to match if he had played since Week 1, he'd currently have 28 TDs (19 INTs) and 4270 yards, which would lead the league in both catagories (Peyton Manning has 26 TDs, and Drew Brees has 4240 yards).
To put that in perspective of the other Pro Bowl quarterback selections in the NFC:
---Drew Brees: 4240 yards, 25 TDs, 11 INTs for a rating of 98.2
---Marc Bulger: 3665 yards, 19 TDs, 8 INTs for a rating of 89.5
As far as other potential NFC quarterback candidates, it would be difficult to make a case for any of them:
--Brett Favre: 3315 yards, 17 TDs with 15 INTs (74.8 rating)
--Donovan McNabb: 2647 yards, 18 TDs, 6 INTs and was an early MVP candidate - has the stats, but because he's injured it would be a waste of a pick because the Pro Bowl committee would have to select an alternate anyway
--Michael Vick: 2284 yards, over 1000 rushing yards, 19 TDs, 11 INTs - had Vick not lost the head-to-head match up versus Romo when the Cowboys beat the Falcons 38-28 Saturday, Vick probably would have been selected
Tony Romo is a Pro Bowl quarterback. He isn't a league MVP, a Hall of Famer or even the next superstar quarterback ... yet, but he's taken the first step this season and deserves this selection.
The other Cowboys' Pro Bowl picks included:
Roy Williams, safety - It's not the big blue star that makes receivers think twice about going over the middle at Texas Stadium. It's the fact that the now-four-time Pro Bowler can make any pass-catcher see stars with one bone-crushing hit.
DeMarcus Ware, linebacker - If you saw his interception of Michael Vick and the touchdown return that ensued, you know why Ware is going to Honolulu.
Mat McBriar, punter - When the Cowboys offense has stalled, McBriar has put opponents' backs to the wall all season. His 48.3 yards per punt is tops in the league.
Stars staying home
Some Dallas Cowboys could arguably be with their four teammates in Hawai'i on Feb. 10, but unless other selections drop out, they won't be making the trip. He's a look at some Cowboys who could have been considered:
Terrell Owens, wide receiver
I know, I know, he's a "big headache," a "distraction," "had an accidental overdose," yada yada yada. The bottom line is that TO is a game-changing receiver. Romo's success is directly related to the flamboyant flanker.
Owens has 11 touchdowns on the season, more than any other NFC Pro Bowl receiver: Torry Holt (10), Donald Driver (7), Steve Smith (6) and Anquan Boldin (4). While Owens has fewer yards than all except Boldin, he's not far behind.
The biggest things holding TO back are: 1. his league-high 15 drops, and 2. the fact that he's TO. Any other receiver with his numbers would be Hawai'i-bound, and if any of the four NFC receivers drop out, TO should be the first one called. There's no way around it: he's helped more than he's hurt Dallas this year.NFC receiving yards leaders
Donald Driver (GB) .............. 80 rec / 1173 yards
Roy Williams (DET) ............. 70 rec / 1127 yards
Steve Smith (CAR) ............... 76 rec / 1081 yards
Torry Holt (STL) .................. 80 rec / 1044 yards
Terrell Owens (DAL) ..... 77 rec / 1040 yards
Anquan Boldin (ARI) ............ 75 rec / 1027 yards
Marion Barber III, running back
He is the NFC's leader in touchdowns with 15. Overall he's tied with Kansas City's LJ for second behind LaDainian Tomlinson (31). He may not get a lot of carries, but when there is dirty work to be done, Big Bill gives the rock to MB3.
The running backs ahead of him are having good seasons. Frank Gore leads the NFC with 1491 rushing yards, and Tiki Barder is on his tail with 1357. Steven Jackson has 1236 yards, but has managed to find the end zone 10 times this season. All three have been called upon to carry the load for their respective teams in crunch time.
Terrance Newman, cornerback
He is emerging as a shut down corner in the NFL. While is not yet at the Champ Bailey level, he has been improving ever since he came into the league. As dallascowboys.com's Mickey Spagnola pointed out, Newman got shafted this season. Look for T-New to make the trip to Hawai'i next February. The guy can play.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Welcome back
Welcome back to the post-season, Dallas. It's been a while - since 2003 - but it's good to have you back. The playoffs just aren't the same without you.
Dallas Cowboys, you really do make the NFL playoffs a better viewing experience for everyone. Whether someone is a Cowboys fan or if they're anti-America's Team, viewers all across the country don't miss a playoff game when you are involved.
You are a premier NFL franchise. No one has as many Super Bowl appearances (eight) or Super Bowl MVPs (seven) as the Dallas Cowboys. Facing Dallas in the post-season is akin to facing the New York Yankees in October: you know you're in trouble. And you know it's a bigger game because it's the Yankees.
Well, when teams play the Cowboys, especially in January, it's trouble. This season looks to be no different. So just remember, Dallas, that while it may have felt like an eternity since your last playoff berth, it's felt even longer for everyone around the nation.
As you advance in the playoffs, the more hype the playoffs generate. Whether someone wants to see you win or lose, the playoffs are better off with you in than with you out. Can that be said about any other franchise in the league?
No. No, it can't.
Does anyone outside of Minnesota notice if the Vikings are in the playoffs in a given year? No. But fans remember when their team had to play the Cowboys in the playoffs. That's where all those "we came so close, until we had to play Dallas" stories come from.
January should be a interesting month, especially with you back. How 'bout them Cowboys!
Dallas Cowboys, you really do make the NFL playoffs a better viewing experience for everyone. Whether someone is a Cowboys fan or if they're anti-America's Team, viewers all across the country don't miss a playoff game when you are involved.
You are a premier NFL franchise. No one has as many Super Bowl appearances (eight) or Super Bowl MVPs (seven) as the Dallas Cowboys. Facing Dallas in the post-season is akin to facing the New York Yankees in October: you know you're in trouble. And you know it's a bigger game because it's the Yankees.
Well, when teams play the Cowboys, especially in January, it's trouble. This season looks to be no different. So just remember, Dallas, that while it may have felt like an eternity since your last playoff berth, it's felt even longer for everyone around the nation.
As you advance in the playoffs, the more hype the playoffs generate. Whether someone wants to see you win or lose, the playoffs are better off with you in than with you out. Can that be said about any other franchise in the league?
No. No, it can't.
Does anyone outside of Minnesota notice if the Vikings are in the playoffs in a given year? No. But fans remember when their team had to play the Cowboys in the playoffs. That's where all those "we came so close, until we had to play Dallas" stories come from.
January should be a interesting month, especially with you back. How 'bout them Cowboys!
Monday, December 11, 2006
Time to Cowboy up
The following was written as a comment to another blog posting, but will still make sense standing alone. The post I'm responding to is about
The fall of Romo? Not likely. Perhaps the stumble of Romo. Maybe the misstep of Romo. But the "fall" of Romo? No.
This was a crushing loss for the Cowboys, no doubt about it. Instead of a two-game division lead and the inside track to a bye, they are left with a one-game lead and lots of wounds to lick.
More importantly, the Cowboys - if they do lock up the division - will most likely play a division foe in the first round (either NYG or PHI), depending who which, if not both, make the dance.
It's true, there's a lot of hype on ESPN, where a quarterback can go from ontop of the world and dating Jessica Simpson to getting crushed by the Saints at home and being shot at in South Dallas. Tony Romo is no exception. He is definitely in the dog house this week. But so is the entire organization.
That's one of the worst home losses the Cowboys have had in recent memory, but it also provides something - if anything - to bounce back from.
You brought up a great point, that Romo had not yet been tested by a tough defense. Well, now he has. Now he knows what to expect. Now he can be better prepared the next time around.
The Cowboys schedule the rest of the way (@ATL, PHI, DET) should allow them to take two out of three at least, giving them a 10-6 record at a playoff berth. If they win all three, it's a division title.
If they rebound next week against a shakey Falcons team, they'll be in prime position to finish the season strong and head to the playoffs with a lot of momentum.
The last time the Cowboys won the Super Bowl (1995), they dropped two games in December (home vs. WAS, and @PHI), but still finished the season with consecutive wins and went unchallenged through the NFC playoffs. I'm not saying they could go unchallenged in this year's NFC playoff picture, but they have the talent to do it.
The "analysts" do create a lot of hype, but they do have some foundation for an argument. Romo has had the numbers. The Cowboys have had the defense. The biggest test will be seeing their ability to bounce back, shake off this loss, and refocus on the schedule that lies ahead.
If they do that, then I'll have only four words for you:
HOW 'BOUT THEM COWBOYS!
This is a Brees
Ouch.
What can you say about Sunday night? The "Debacle in Dallas." the "Implosion in Irving," or the "Fall of Romo" as some have termed it. Whatever it was, one thing was for certain:
The Saints could go marchin' in, all the way to the Super Bowl.
Last night was nothing short of a good old fashion beat-down. The Saints' 42-17 Cowboy-killing gave them an inside track to a bye and - Rex Grossman pending - a shot at home field throughout the playoffs.
The Saints put up two 21-point quarters to put the country - and the AFC - on alert. New Orleans is here, and they're ready to take on anyone. This win could very well be the springboard for the Saints to finish the season on a six-game winning streak and a 12-4 record that will guarantee at least a bye, if not home field (it's highly unlikely, but we'll see about that tonight after the Bears game).
New Orleans has come out of nowhere this season. They have the inside track to a bye, and quarterback Drew Brees has a shot at breaking Dan Marino's season passing record (5,084 yards). Not since Kurt Warner in 2001 has anyone come close.
With their remaining schedule, Mardi Gras could come early for the Big Easy.
Let's break down the Saints remaining schedule:
The Saints most likely won't earn home-field advantage throughout. Chicago is undefeated in conference play (8-0) with a cupcake schedule the rest of the way. Even with their problems at quarterback, the defensive Monsters of the Midway (and some special special teams production) should allow the Bears to lock up the top seed.
Chicago would have to loss three of its final four games (@St. Louis, Tampa Bay, @Detroit, Green Bay) to allow New Orleans the top seed. Who cares who Rex Grossman is playing with that schedule! They have two home losses in the last two years. I know it gets pretty cold in Chicago in January, but that hasn't bothered the last two playoff teams that visisted.
So enjoy last night's win, New Orleans. You marched in to Dallas and marched over the Cowboys. Keep it up and you might just march yourselves into Miami for Super Bowl XLI.
What can you say about Sunday night? The "Debacle in Dallas." the "Implosion in Irving," or the "Fall of Romo" as some have termed it. Whatever it was, one thing was for certain:
The Saints could go marchin' in, all the way to the Super Bowl.
Last night was nothing short of a good old fashion beat-down. The Saints' 42-17 Cowboy-killing gave them an inside track to a bye and - Rex Grossman pending - a shot at home field throughout the playoffs.
As for the Cowboys, no, they are not done. They still lead the Giants and Eagles by one game in the NFC East, with a semi-forgiving schedule left (@Atlanta, Philadelphia, Detroit). They should, should, win two out of three, getting them in the playoffs. If one of those wins is against Philly, that should be enough to lock up the division crown.
The Saints put up two 21-point quarters to put the country - and the AFC - on alert. New Orleans is here, and they're ready to take on anyone. This win could very well be the springboard for the Saints to finish the season on a six-game winning streak and a 12-4 record that will guarantee at least a bye, if not home field (it's highly unlikely, but we'll see about that tonight after the Bears game).
New Orleans has come out of nowhere this season. They have the inside track to a bye, and quarterback Drew Brees has a shot at breaking Dan Marino's season passing record (5,084 yards). Not since Kurt Warner in 2001 has anyone come close.
With their remaining schedule, Mardi Gras could come early for the Big Easy.
Let's break down the Saints remaining schedule:
Dec. 17, Washington Redskins (4-9)
There's no excuse not to win this game. Gibbs and Co. are reeling after a narrow loss to Philly, and New Orleans has been sensational in the Super Dome this season.
If they want, the Saints can go ahead and look at film for the New York game. Let the back ups play this one.
Dec. 24, @ New York Giants (7-6)
After a four-game, potentially-season-crushing losing streak, the Giants are once again the best team in East Rutherford, N.J. Congratulations. Their win at Carolina helped give this free-falling franchise some semblance of a parachute. The Giants will need great production from their running backs (Tiki Barber and Brandon Jacobs) to take the pressure off Eli Manning.
On paper, the Saints are a better all-around team, but let's wait to see just how high the G-men bounce back.
Dec. 31, Carolina Panthers (6-7)
In the Saints' closest (and first) loss of the season, Carolina pounded the ball, outgaining New Orleans on the ground, 167-63. Jake Delhomme played an efficient game (19/29, 169 yards, 2 TDs). If Delhomme is back for this game (and I don't mean back from the injury, I mean back from whatever planet he's been on for the last three weeks),
the Panthers will be a tough team to beat.
The Saints kept it close the first time, and the Panthers keep finding new ways to lose games in the fourth quarter. And what better way to celebrate a win against division-rival Carolina than with a bye week.
The Saints most likely won't earn home-field advantage throughout. Chicago is undefeated in conference play (8-0) with a cupcake schedule the rest of the way. Even with their problems at quarterback, the defensive Monsters of the Midway (and some special special teams production) should allow the Bears to lock up the top seed.
Chicago would have to loss three of its final four games (@St. Louis, Tampa Bay, @Detroit, Green Bay) to allow New Orleans the top seed. Who cares who Rex Grossman is playing with that schedule! They have two home losses in the last two years. I know it gets pretty cold in Chicago in January, but that hasn't bothered the last two playoff teams that visisted.
So enjoy last night's win, New Orleans. You marched in to Dallas and marched over the Cowboys. Keep it up and you might just march yourselves into Miami for Super Bowl XLI.
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Giant problems in NY
The New York Giants are in trouble. If they have any chance to repeat as division champions, they are going to need to make an abrupt about-face. Now.
They have now lost three straight games after giving away Sunday’s game to a team that’s too Young (as in Vince) for its own good. No matter. The Giants let the Tennessee Titans creep back into the ball game.
The G-men held a commanding 21-0 lead five minutes into the fourth quarter. If Tiki Barber was still complaining about getting the ball, surely he’d have an opportunity to shine in a run-out-the-clock situation.
Barber’s fourth quarter line: six carries for 13 yards, and don’t call me Shirley!
The defense the Giants faced in the fourth quarter seemed like they’d been flown in from Baltimore. New York’s four fourth-quarter drives ended with an interception, punt, punt and interception. They ran a grand total of 16 plays in the final period. The Titans essentially averaged a three-and-out.
The Giants offense – as bad as it was – did not give the game away alone (although Eli Manning was trying). Their defense simply let the Vince Young and the Titans out of their grasp. Literally.
On fourth-and-10 with 2:44 left in the game, Giants defensive end Mathias Kiwanuka wrapped his arms around Young. The game was very much in Kiwanuka’s hands – or arms. In that play, Kiwanuka became a microcosm for the Giants game: he let Young, and the Titans, go free. He let him go. Vince Young did not perform one of his burnt-orange Houdini routines. Kiwanuka just let him go.
And go Young went, for 19 yards, the first down, and eventually the game-tying touchdown.
“Thank God for letting me loose,” Young told reporters after the game about the play.
In that moment, the Titans were let loose, and on they went to beat the Giants on a 49-yard field goal with six seconds in the game.
And while the win is priceless for the Titans, I wouldn’t have paid a dollar to watch a football team as sloppy as the Giants were in the closing stages of Sunday’s game. Heck, the difference between the New York Giants and a dollar bill: you can still get four quarters out of a dollar.
The same cannot be said for Tom Coughlin’s team. As for Coughlin, he’s about to blow a gasket. Play-makers have been critical of him and the play-calling. Any veteran leadership is nowhere to be found. His big-name quarterback is making terrible decisions. If his last name wasn’t Manning, he’d be thrown under a bus – and knowing the New York media, he might be.
The Giants are now 6-5, second in the NFC East to rival Dallas, whose three-game winning streak are not nearly as scary as the difference in attitude. The Cowboys are full of life after a Thanksgiving Day route of Tampa Bay, 38-10, and quarterback Tony Romo is making a legitimate Pro Bowl bid.
If New York loses next week’s all-important division game to Dallas at the Meadowlands, they can kiss good-bye any dreams of repeating as division champs.
The Giants down-trodden locker room won’t be aided by players and coaches lashing out at the media about one another. Last week Barber complained he wasn’t being utilized enough. After this collapse, it was Coughlin ripping his quarterback for throwing a late interception. Quite a contrast to their division leader.
The Cowboys’ only concern – albeit a big one – is if Bill Parcells can count on his kicker. Dallas has demonstrated an attitude shift under Romo’s guidance erasing any memory of Terrell Owens preseason antics and end zone naps.
While the Giants remaind tightly wound, the Cowboys are just as loose as Vince Young on fourth-and-10.
When New York finishes the season third in the division behind the Cowboys and McNabb-less Eagles, just remember, the Giants’ season did not slip away. They let it go.
They have now lost three straight games after giving away Sunday’s game to a team that’s too Young (as in Vince) for its own good. No matter. The Giants let the Tennessee Titans creep back into the ball game.
The G-men held a commanding 21-0 lead five minutes into the fourth quarter. If Tiki Barber was still complaining about getting the ball, surely he’d have an opportunity to shine in a run-out-the-clock situation.
Barber’s fourth quarter line: six carries for 13 yards, and don’t call me Shirley!
The defense the Giants faced in the fourth quarter seemed like they’d been flown in from Baltimore. New York’s four fourth-quarter drives ended with an interception, punt, punt and interception. They ran a grand total of 16 plays in the final period. The Titans essentially averaged a three-and-out.
The Giants offense – as bad as it was – did not give the game away alone (although Eli Manning was trying). Their defense simply let the Vince Young and the Titans out of their grasp. Literally.
On fourth-and-10 with 2:44 left in the game, Giants defensive end Mathias Kiwanuka wrapped his arms around Young. The game was very much in Kiwanuka’s hands – or arms. In that play, Kiwanuka became a microcosm for the Giants game: he let Young, and the Titans, go free. He let him go. Vince Young did not perform one of his burnt-orange Houdini routines. Kiwanuka just let him go.
And go Young went, for 19 yards, the first down, and eventually the game-tying touchdown.
“Thank God for letting me loose,” Young told reporters after the game about the play.
In that moment, the Titans were let loose, and on they went to beat the Giants on a 49-yard field goal with six seconds in the game.
And while the win is priceless for the Titans, I wouldn’t have paid a dollar to watch a football team as sloppy as the Giants were in the closing stages of Sunday’s game. Heck, the difference between the New York Giants and a dollar bill: you can still get four quarters out of a dollar.
The same cannot be said for Tom Coughlin’s team. As for Coughlin, he’s about to blow a gasket. Play-makers have been critical of him and the play-calling. Any veteran leadership is nowhere to be found. His big-name quarterback is making terrible decisions. If his last name wasn’t Manning, he’d be thrown under a bus – and knowing the New York media, he might be.
The Giants are now 6-5, second in the NFC East to rival Dallas, whose three-game winning streak are not nearly as scary as the difference in attitude. The Cowboys are full of life after a Thanksgiving Day route of Tampa Bay, 38-10, and quarterback Tony Romo is making a legitimate Pro Bowl bid.
If New York loses next week’s all-important division game to Dallas at the Meadowlands, they can kiss good-bye any dreams of repeating as division champs.
The Giants down-trodden locker room won’t be aided by players and coaches lashing out at the media about one another. Last week Barber complained he wasn’t being utilized enough. After this collapse, it was Coughlin ripping his quarterback for throwing a late interception. Quite a contrast to their division leader.
The Cowboys’ only concern – albeit a big one – is if Bill Parcells can count on his kicker. Dallas has demonstrated an attitude shift under Romo’s guidance erasing any memory of Terrell Owens preseason antics and end zone naps.
While the Giants remaind tightly wound, the Cowboys are just as loose as Vince Young on fourth-and-10.
When New York finishes the season third in the division behind the Cowboys and McNabb-less Eagles, just remember, the Giants’ season did not slip away. They let it go.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
How 'bout that Cowboy
Coming into the season, I'd be willing to wager that the majority of the nation would have identified Tony Romo as "that restaurant."
And while some might award partial credit for Tony Roma's, whoever it is has been doing a great job of feeding the Dallas Cowboys.
Since Romo took the starting quarterback job from Drew Bledsoe, the atmosphere at Valley Ranch has seemingly come alive. Play-makers Jason Witten and Terrell Owens appear rejuvinated, and how couldn't they be, considering their new quarterback just torched Tampa Bay for five - yes five - touchdowns on Thanksgiving Day.
Just how amazing is that?
Well, other than the fact that Romo is on my fantasy team (I had this week won before finishing Thanksgiving with a slice of pumpkin pie), no Cowboys quarterback had ever thrown five touchdown passes in Texas Stadium. If you want to get technical, yes, others did it at the Cotton Bowl or at away games, but it's still an amazing feat.
The Cowboys are now 7-4, leading division rival New York by a half-game. If Tennessee can take care of business against the Giants, Dallas could be in prime position to separate themselves from the rest of the pack in the NFC East.
While it isn't exactly probably the Giants would continue to slide against Tennessee, the Titans have shown signs of football life in Nashville. The Eagles will most likely fall to the Colts in the RCA Dome, and with McNabb out for the year, they don't pose any threat to the two teams in blue.
Whoever win the division will need to win next week's battle at the Meadowlands. The Giants could enter either tied for the division lead or one game back. Regardless, the winner will have the momentum to carry themselves through December and into January.
If the Cowboys continue that run, it's because of one guy, who may or may not be connected to a large restaurant chain. Romo has given the Cowboys life. He's given the Cowboys hope. He's given the Cowboys a swagger that's been missing since Troy Aikman led this franchise to three Super Bowl wins.
A sign hanging at Texas Stadium Thursday said it best. He's given this team: Ro-momentum.
And while some might award partial credit for Tony Roma's, whoever it is has been doing a great job of feeding the Dallas Cowboys.
Since Romo took the starting quarterback job from Drew Bledsoe, the atmosphere at Valley Ranch has seemingly come alive. Play-makers Jason Witten and Terrell Owens appear rejuvinated, and how couldn't they be, considering their new quarterback just torched Tampa Bay for five - yes five - touchdowns on Thanksgiving Day.
Just how amazing is that?
Well, other than the fact that Romo is on my fantasy team (I had this week won before finishing Thanksgiving with a slice of pumpkin pie), no Cowboys quarterback had ever thrown five touchdown passes in Texas Stadium. If you want to get technical, yes, others did it at the Cotton Bowl or at away games, but it's still an amazing feat.
The Cowboys are now 7-4, leading division rival New York by a half-game. If Tennessee can take care of business against the Giants, Dallas could be in prime position to separate themselves from the rest of the pack in the NFC East.
While it isn't exactly probably the Giants would continue to slide against Tennessee, the Titans have shown signs of football life in Nashville. The Eagles will most likely fall to the Colts in the RCA Dome, and with McNabb out for the year, they don't pose any threat to the two teams in blue.
Whoever win the division will need to win next week's battle at the Meadowlands. The Giants could enter either tied for the division lead or one game back. Regardless, the winner will have the momentum to carry themselves through December and into January.
If the Cowboys continue that run, it's because of one guy, who may or may not be connected to a large restaurant chain. Romo has given the Cowboys life. He's given the Cowboys hope. He's given the Cowboys a swagger that's been missing since Troy Aikman led this franchise to three Super Bowl wins.
A sign hanging at Texas Stadium Thursday said it best. He's given this team: Ro-momentum.
Monday, October 30, 2006
Ready for Romo
Since Troy Aikman’s retirement after the 2000 season, the Cowboys had been searching for the next arm to lead Dallas back to glory. The fact that they had eight different starting quarterbacks since Aikman really meant they had none. The process for finding the next franchise arm hasn’t been simple for owner Jerry Jones. Despite Jones’ optimism year after year, the Cowboys couldn’t get the results.
So when Jones’ optimism finally cracked as he voiced frustrations about Bill Parcells sitting down Drew Bledsoe in favor of Tony Romo, it seemed the Cowboys were in trouble. If the club’s owner – who routinely predicts 10-6 seasons each August – isn’t confident in the switch, fans shouldn’t have any reason to feel comfortable.
Sunday night, Romo told those fans and his owner to relax.
As time expired in Bank of America stadium Sunday night, the scoreboard reflected more than a triumphant comeback. It showed more than the Cowboys’ most impressive win this season. The scoreboard represented a swagger back in the step of the boys in blue, a swagger they hadn’t had since Aikman guided them to their last playoff win a decade ago.
Despite poor performances in the Cowboys losses, I was positive Bledsoe had to remain at quarterback if the Cowboys had playoff hopes. Bledsoe had the experience. He’s a proven winner in the NFL. Romo represented a question mark no one – outside of Parcells – had the answer to.
And when Parcells announced the move to Romo, I thought that not only meant the end of Bledsoe’s tenure as quarterback of the Cowboys but the end of any playoff hopes as well.
But while fans, experts and even the owner weren’t sure what the career backup would bring to the table, the coach was. Parcells proved to everyone why he is referred to as the “Big Tuna.”
The next time I criticize a Parcells personnel decision, I’m going to have to remember to check my fingers to see how many Super Bowl rings I have before deciding how it will affect the team.
After a shaky first quarter that left Dallas in a 14-0 hole, Romo picked up a shovel and patiently began to dig his way out. Three quarters later, he was using the shovel to burry the Carolina Panthers.
As the game progressed, Romo demonstrated to the national audience that the ‘boys are back – or at least, they’re on their way. He is a long way from taking the Cowboys to three championships like Aikman or five title games like Roger Staubach. But Tony Romo has the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of those two Cowboys legends. He can help a talented team fulfill it’s potential. He showed that in Charlotte.
One of the more overlooked qualities Romo brings to the Cowboys is his relationship with Terrell Owens. If Owens has the good chemistry with Romo that he claims, that could be a big problem for opposing secondaries. Owens hadn’t found a grove with Bledsoe, and it’s no secret Bledsoe worked better with long-time teammate Terry Glenn. But Owens and tight end Jason Witten appeared seemed satisfied with their new play-caller.
Owens, who has developed a reputation for throwing quarterbacks under the bus, now has a quarterback he can trust to throw him the ball. TO had nine catches for 107 yards – his first 100-yard game of the season. Owens hadn’t caught more than five passes in any game this season prior to Sunday night. That trend should continue with Romo under center.
Romo demonstrated why Parcells made him the new starter in Dallas on a two-point conversion in the fourth quarter. Romo took the snap and immediately stutter-stepped forward, faking a quarterback draw. Carolina’s linebackers bit just enough for Romo to zip the ball past them to Owens for a seven-point Cowboys lead.
Romo-advocates argued his mobility should be enough for him to line up under center on Sundays. Romo dispelled that myth. He is much more than mobile. He is a quarterback. And now in Dallas, he is the quarterback.
So when Jones’ optimism finally cracked as he voiced frustrations about Bill Parcells sitting down Drew Bledsoe in favor of Tony Romo, it seemed the Cowboys were in trouble. If the club’s owner – who routinely predicts 10-6 seasons each August – isn’t confident in the switch, fans shouldn’t have any reason to feel comfortable.
Sunday night, Romo told those fans and his owner to relax.
As time expired in Bank of America stadium Sunday night, the scoreboard reflected more than a triumphant comeback. It showed more than the Cowboys’ most impressive win this season. The scoreboard represented a swagger back in the step of the boys in blue, a swagger they hadn’t had since Aikman guided them to their last playoff win a decade ago.
Despite poor performances in the Cowboys losses, I was positive Bledsoe had to remain at quarterback if the Cowboys had playoff hopes. Bledsoe had the experience. He’s a proven winner in the NFL. Romo represented a question mark no one – outside of Parcells – had the answer to.
And when Parcells announced the move to Romo, I thought that not only meant the end of Bledsoe’s tenure as quarterback of the Cowboys but the end of any playoff hopes as well.
But while fans, experts and even the owner weren’t sure what the career backup would bring to the table, the coach was. Parcells proved to everyone why he is referred to as the “Big Tuna.”
The next time I criticize a Parcells personnel decision, I’m going to have to remember to check my fingers to see how many Super Bowl rings I have before deciding how it will affect the team.
After a shaky first quarter that left Dallas in a 14-0 hole, Romo picked up a shovel and patiently began to dig his way out. Three quarters later, he was using the shovel to burry the Carolina Panthers.
As the game progressed, Romo demonstrated to the national audience that the ‘boys are back – or at least, they’re on their way. He is a long way from taking the Cowboys to three championships like Aikman or five title games like Roger Staubach. But Tony Romo has the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of those two Cowboys legends. He can help a talented team fulfill it’s potential. He showed that in Charlotte.
One of the more overlooked qualities Romo brings to the Cowboys is his relationship with Terrell Owens. If Owens has the good chemistry with Romo that he claims, that could be a big problem for opposing secondaries. Owens hadn’t found a grove with Bledsoe, and it’s no secret Bledsoe worked better with long-time teammate Terry Glenn. But Owens and tight end Jason Witten appeared seemed satisfied with their new play-caller.
Owens, who has developed a reputation for throwing quarterbacks under the bus, now has a quarterback he can trust to throw him the ball. TO had nine catches for 107 yards – his first 100-yard game of the season. Owens hadn’t caught more than five passes in any game this season prior to Sunday night. That trend should continue with Romo under center.
Romo demonstrated why Parcells made him the new starter in Dallas on a two-point conversion in the fourth quarter. Romo took the snap and immediately stutter-stepped forward, faking a quarterback draw. Carolina’s linebackers bit just enough for Romo to zip the ball past them to Owens for a seven-point Cowboys lead.
Romo-advocates argued his mobility should be enough for him to line up under center on Sundays. Romo dispelled that myth. He is much more than mobile. He is a quarterback. And now in Dallas, he is the quarterback.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Begging for Bledsoe
The NFL season is one week old, and Dallas’ playoff caliber team is wrongly being put in a quarterback controversy. Starting quarterback Drew Bledsoe finished the day with one touchdown pass and three interceptions sparking the debate. The Cowboys other option behind Bledsoe is the untested Tony Romo.
Simply put, making a switch would be a mistake. Even suggesting a switch makes no sense. If the Cowboys were to make a change at quarterback anytime soon, it would signify the end of the 2006 season.
To merely look at the numbers, see Bledsoe’s three interceptions and determine he was awful is an insult to a strong Jacksonville team that people forget won 12 games last season. Had Bledsoe had this performance against the Texans or Lions, then perhaps things would be different. Sunday was nothing more than an aberration against a tough opponent.
Drew Bledsoe has quarterbacked for Bill Parcells dating back to their days with New England, where the two went to a Super Bowl together. He has run this offense since last season, a season where he out-performed expectations. He has emerged as a leader for this organization, and he is hungry to prove he can win his own Super Bowl ring without Tom Brady under center.
While the value of the preseason is debatable, there is no question Bledsoe has chemistry with his primary targets. He and wide out Terry Glenn hooked up for four catches for 81 yards in Sunday’s opener after connecting on several beautiful touchdown catches throughout the preseason. These two have proven they work well together and are capable of providing at least one big momentum-changing play every week.
The Cowboys are in not in a position to play for next year. If it’s true Terrell Owens will blow up the Cowboys from within, the team needs to win sooner than later. Owner and general manager Jerry Jones had one of the biggest off-seasons in the NFL, bringing in big name free agents at receiver and kicker. These moves were not designed with breaking in a new quarterback in mind. Jones is looking to win now, and Bledsoe is the only quarterback on the Cowboys roster of making that happen. Jones is arguably the most competitive owner in the league. He wants to return the Cowboys to their elite status of years past.
Bledsoe has the experience to take the Cowboys to the playoffs. Last season he completed 60 percent of his passes and finished the year with an 83.7 quarterback rating. He threw for more than 3600 yards, one of the top five passing seasons in franchise history. He may not consistently have Pro Bowl numbers, but Bledsoe can run the efficient offense Parcells is looking for.
Ever since the team signed TO, it seems the national media – not to mention rivals in Philadelphia – are waiting for the Cowboys to be destroyed. The only thing that can stop what some have described as a locker room cancer is strong team leadership in the locker room. Bledsoe provides that. He has accomplished a great deal in his 13 previous seasons in the NFL and because of that commands the respect of his teammates.
If the Cowboys replace Drew Bledsoe in favor of Tony Romo this season, it will come after they have been eliminated from playoff contention. Romo hasn’t proven he is ready to take America’s team on his back. Perhaps at this time next season things will be different. Romo supporters base their campaign on his preseason performance.
Romo did look good in preseason competition – against second and third team defenses. He completed almost 70 percent of his passes in the preseason and made his case why he can make the move to starting quarterback next season.
But Bledsoe’s preseason numbers trumped Romo’s, so if anyone were to make the case for the Cowboys quarterback based on the preseason, the edge goes to Bledsoe. They each threw three touchdown passes, but Romo had three interceptions to Bledsoe’s one. Bledsoe also completed 75 percent of his passes while facing the opponents’ first team defense.
The Cowboys have a great chance of making it to the playoffs this season. Prior to the game at Jacksonville, Joe Buck made them his Super Bowl pick. This season they have a very high ceiling, much higher than last year, when people suspected Bledsoe was a younger version of Vinny Testaverde.
The pressure of a playoff race is typically too much for a young quarterback to handle. Pittsburg’s Ben Roethlisberger and New England’s Tom Brady are the exception, not the rule. Tony Romo is virtually a rookie. He has never taken a meaningful snap in the NFL. While there is value in holding a clipboard for a few years and taking it all in, there is no substitute for game experience.
Romo could very well be the future of the Dallas Cowboys. He has shown tremendous potential in several preseason games. But the Cowboys must play in the present. Jones did not build a team for the future. He’s assembled this team to win now, and this owner has demonstrated he will do whatever it takes to win. There is no “playing for next season” for the Cowboys – they aren’t the Texas Rangers.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Hit Counter
Everyone's visiting the NO JOSHIN' blog. Tell your friends to take a look!
