Cowboys Heading Back to the Playoffs

Heading into Sunday night’s game, the Cowboys knew a win placed them in the tournament.  A shutout was the result.  The Cowboys defense dominated the line of scrimmage throughout the game.  In the 100th meeting between the teams this was the first time the Cowboys have held the Redskins scoreless.  This is also the first time the Cowboys have had back-to-back wins in December since 2003.

We all remember last year’s debacle against the Eagles.  Fittingly, the Cowboys have a chance to make amends this year, as the Eagles come to Cowboys Stadium with the division title hanging in the balance.  Next up for the Cowboys — eliminate their January winless streak which dates back to the year 2000.

On Sunday night the Cowboys did leave a ton of points on the field.  That has been a problem for the offense all season.  When playoff time arrives, they will have to convert the yardage into points.

Offensive Observations

Tony Romo had another strong performance in the month of December.  He has matured into one of the league’s best quarterbacks, and in my opinion he deserves some MVP votes.  Watching every game, the season Romo has had has been remarkable.  Countless times we witness him making plays within the pocket under constant duress.  It proves what we all thought when he first arrived — Tony Romo is a heck of a QB, and we are lucky to have him behind center.

Miles Austin and Jason Witten were the main offensive threats on Sunday.  They torched the Redskins secondary for over 200 combined receiving yards.  You cannot say enough about the positive effect the emergence of Austin has had on this offense.  He showed on Sunday that he is more than capable of being a workhorse receiver, as evident of his nine catches.  With Witten and Austin, the Cowboys have a dynamic duo for years to come.

On the flip side, we witnessed another sub-par performance from Roy E. Williams.  After scoring an early touchdown, Williams was held without a reception the rest of the game.  He did, however, account for a couple drops cementing his place among the tops in the league in that category.  What a nightmare the past two seasons have been for him.  It is uncomfortable watching him out there.  He seems to have limited body control, which makes him looks clumsy in his attempts for the football.  If I was Jerry Jones, no way do I bring him back next year.  Hopefully against Philly and in the playoffs he can most the most of his limited opportunities.

Marion Barber had a poor game as well.  He was stuffed numerous times in short yardage situations.  He deserves a pass because that has been his specialty throughout his career, and he has been among the league’s best.  However, he does not seem to have the same burst he has had in years past.  The Cowboys should really consider playing Choice more.  A three-headed backfield split might be the best way to get the most out of each individual player.  Also, in the offseason I would consider trading Barber.  Running backs are a dime a dozen, and we have three good ones on the roster.  Consider this:  Trade Barber to the Texans for a 2nd and a 4th round pick.  They are in dyer need of a running back, and the Cowboys could use the picks to draft another running back and get younger on the o-line.  It is a thought worth pondering.

Defensive Observations

No negatives from this group on Sunday.  Jay Ratliff showed his dominance up front.  He was clearly the best nose tackle on the field.  It is a travesty that he is not among the top five at his position in the pro-bowl voting.  Hopefully, the Cowboys will be playing in Miami and watching the pro-bowl in the stands.

The Cowboys arguably have the best group of linebackers in football.  With Bradie James and Keith Brooking controlling the middle and DeMarcus Ware and Anthony Spencer on the outside, teams are finding it difficult to contain this group.  They have been dominant all season and as the season progresses they seem to get stronger.  Having those four linebackers – throw in Bobby Carpenter in passing situations – give the Cowboys a great shot against any opponent.

The defensive backs for the Cowboys were outstanding Sunday night.  Mike Jenkins continues to impress and he deserves to be in the discussion with the elite cornerbacks in the league.  Also, Ken Hamlin has played well since his return from injury.  In years past the Cowboys defense was known to soften at the end of the year.  Not this group.  Their play has improved in December, and as the playoffs approach, I think this group could be among the tournament’s best.

Final Analysis

One of the most underrated trades this past offseason was swapping Anthony Henry for Jon Kitna.  That trade has had positive ramifications on both sides of the ball.  I think Kitna has been the perfect backup slash mentor for Romo.  On the sidelines, you constantly see him discussing gameplan with Romo and I think it has helped to improve Romo’s game.  Also, Henry’s departure paved the way for Jenkins to fill his spot as a starter.  Although Henry was a pretty good player for the Cowboys, he was clearly in decline.  Going with the second year player was the right move for the Cowboys.  His emergence has solidified the Cowboys among the league’s best defensive units.

Next up: Division title on the line against Philly.  Would not have it any other way.  Stay Tuned!!!

Tags: Anthony Spencer, Bradie James, Dallas Cowboys, DeMarcus Ware, Jason Witten, Jay Ratliff, Jerry Jones, Jon Kitna, Keith Brooking, Ken Hamlin, Marion Barber, Mike Jenkins, Miles Austin, NFL, Orlando Scandrick, Roy Williams, Tashard Choice, Terence Newman, Tony Romo