SB Nation User Blog: Carl Shelton (GloryDayz88)

Pray for Chris Henry

Carl Shelton (GloryDayz88) — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 05:15:07 -0000

I understand that this is not a Cowboys-related matter, but a young man's life is at stake here, and this is an NFL matter that encompasses all fans. Bengals wide-receiver Chris Henry is likely to lose his life tonight after an extremely odd automobile accident.

Henry is on life support after reportedly falling out of a pickup truck. Homicide decetives were called onto the scene, so loss of life is almost imminent in this case.

As we all know, Henry has been a troubled man throughout his football career. But in the last calendar year, Henry has been an example of how it is possible to turn a troubled life around.

Whatever you think about this man, please pray for him. He is only 26 years old, and a father of three. No young man deserves this fate. No children deserve to lose their father.

PLEASE SEND UP YOUR PRAYERS FOR CHRIS HENRY TONIGHT.

Cowboys Sam Hurd on the Rise?

Carl Shelton (GloryDayz88) — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 04:19:01 -0000

More photos » by Marcio Sanchez - AP

Look at the guns on #17! Those are the fruits of hard work and determination. That's what it takes to last in the NFL as an undrafted free agent. This year may finally be the year for Sam Hurd.

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I know it’s only the preseason. I know it’s only one game, but Sam Hurd looked good Thursday night. With all of this talk about whether or not Miles Austin would overtake Patrick Crayton as the #2 receiver, I don’t think any of us considered the possibility of Hurd making a case for the #3 spot. Again, it was just one preseason game, but Hurd showed some things that were really encouraging.

After losing a great deal of his 2008 season to an ankle injury, Hurd is fully recovered. He's still listed at 205 lbs. but appears to be more muscular than in years past. He seems to have an extra little bounce in his step, and for a guy who is supposed to be slow, he’s proving that he is fast enough to get open. It’s early, but it’s beginning to look like Sam Hurd is determined to contribute this year.

It’s quite possible that only injuries stopped Hurd from turning the corner last season. Around this same time last preseason, Hurd’s play was inspiring the same type of optimism. After suffering a high ankle sprain on a reverse against Minnesota, he was never able to get back in sync. Ultimately, he saw his season end in October after suffering a second ankle injury. Had Hurd avoided injury, who knows what may have transpired last season for the former undrafted free agent.

If he is able to break out, it will be like stealing for the Cowboys. With all the questions that have been aimed at the Cowboys depth at wide receiver, the team would be delighted to find an answer in-house. If Hurd becomes a real contributor, he would give the Cowboys four viable options at wide receiver. Injuries are always challenging, but at least with a healthy and productive Sam Hurd, an injury within the receiving corps would no longer trigger the Apocalypse. Roy Williams has never been healthy for more than 14 games in his NFL career. He is just one of those guys who tends to get nicked up and miss a game here and there.

Sam Hurd probably has more in mind than just waiting for the injury bug to strike. I mean, can we really rule him out as the 3rd wideout? In my opinion the jury is still out on Miles Austin. It would be nice to have Austin’s speed on the field for the majority of snaps, but it isn’t about that all the time. With or without Austin on the field, the Cowboys have enough speed to force defenses to cover every inch of turf. Witten and Bennett can keep safeties from getting nosy. It’s nice to have a speedster, but you don’t need a track star to be successful on offense. I’m sure Austin has a lot more to show, but he will not get the nod from the staff on speed alone. It’s not outside the realm of possibility for Hurd to force his way into the #3 spot.

Hurd is an easy guy to pull for. As a former undrafted free agent, the fact that he is still around after three years says a lot on it’s own. We’ve watched Hurd grow from an undrafted, undersized unknown from Northern Illinois, to a veteran with a legit NFL body, looking to finally bust out. I wouldn’t be surprised in the least if Hurd’s 2009 forces the Cowboys to figure him into the team’s long term plans.

Cowboys Should Stay Away From The Wildcat

Carl Shelton (GloryDayz88) — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 04:09:55 -0000

More photos » by Eric Gay - AP

Rather than experimenting with the Wildcat formation, the Cowboys would do best to just keep the ball in this man's hands.

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With the NFL being the copycat league that it is, the Wildcat formation became a league-wide craze last season when the Miami Dolphins used it to inject a little juice into an otherwise less than special offense. I, like many other Cowboy fans, have had my fair share of daydreams about Isaiah Stanback or Patrick Crayton lining up behind center. But the more I think about this whole Wildcat thing, the more I personally would prefer the Cowboys leave it alone entirely.

Of course the Wildcat sounds like a ton of fun, especially considering the Cowboys personnel. But one quote from an owner who has had a great deal of success began to sway my opinion. When asked if his team may have interest in signing Michael Vick to run a little Wildcat, Patriots owner Robert Kraft made a ton of sense in one sentence:

"Why would we ever want to do anything to take Tom Brady off the field?"

Tony Romo isn't Tom Brady, but if you have a top level quarterback, why would you want to take the ball out of his hands? The Miami Dolphins had to be creative because they had marginal talent at the quarterback position (and on the perimeter). Even in the midst of a Wildcat tidal wave last season, it seemed that the good and secure offenses denied temptation, and just continued to do what they do. We didn’t see any Wildcat from the Colts, Patriots, or Giants. The Eagles whipped it out once, and scrapped it after a Desean Jackson red-zone interception. When you are efficient, and confident in what you do, you are best served to go with what got you there.

A lot of people make the argument that the Wildcat is worth having in the playbook because it forces opposing defenses to spend valuable practice time preparing for it. Sure, but doesn’t running the Wildcat take away from your practice time as well? I’m just not a fan of taking reps away from standard personnel, in favor of putting in a gimmick offense that we may not even see once a game.

Washington Redskins Head Coach Jim Zorn on the Wildcat:

"…the next time you run it it’s a two-yard gain. And for as much work as you’ve had to do in practice to get your running back to catch the direct snap, to fake an option and run…you could have just run a regular play."

I know that the majority Wildcat plays are runs, but you have to throw it some to keep the defense honest. I definitely have no interest in seeing anyone else chucking the pigskin except Romo. Ever. I don’t have a problem with taking the pressure off of Romo, but with Marion Barber, Felix Jones, and Tashard Choice on board, conventional running plays should be enough to keep from hanging the entire game on Romo’s arm.

I think that the Wildcat is a phase and like all phases, it will soon pass. Everyone will copycat it to death, and the formation will quickly lose it’s mystique and surprise quality. After last season, do you think you are going to catch anybody off guard with the wildcat? Playoff caliber defenses were smothering the Dolphins wildcat in the latter part of last season.

Former Super Bowl winning head coach Brian Billick on the Wildcat:

"I don’t think there’s any future for that in the NFL…It was fun. It was a great changeup. I give them (Miami) credit for doing those types of things. But against a really good team, it got stuffed."

If the Cowboys had gotten into this Wildcat business last season when teams were still figuring out how to defend it, it would have probably been beneficial. But now that everyone is ready for it, I really don’t see the point of offensive plays that do not involve Tony Romo. Ultimately, I think that the Wildcat formation will quickly go by the way of slap bracelets, Tommy Hilfiger overalls, and Chia Pets. If the Cowboys install the Wildcat this season, they would be getting on the bus a bit late.

Cowboys Camp: A New and Improved Wade Phillips?

Carl Shelton (GloryDayz88) — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 04:19:14 -0000

More photos » by LM Otero - AP

Head Coach Wade Phillips can be more demanding of his players without necessarily becoming a tougher coach.

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Training camp is here at last. As Cowboy fans we have been anxiously waiting to finally see this new-look, streamlined Cowboy unit in action. We’ve all been waiting to see what a healthy Roy Williams looks like in T.O.’s old spot. We’ve debated at length which sophomore corner will hold down the island opposite Terence Newman. We’ve hypothesized all offseason about the role Jason Garrett will be carving out for Felix Jones. With all of these great training camp related unsolved issues, there was still one question that loomed larger than all of the rest in my mind. I wanted to know whether or not we were all going to see this tougher, more demanding Wade Phillips that we were promised.

At his pre-camp presser, Coach Phillips looked at times like a guy who was trying on his tough guy suit for the first time. He was in a few instances, uncharacteristically short and dismissive with the media. He also seemed to be almost fighting his own natural smile, attempting to look a bit more subdued and businesslike. I get it. The guy wants to be taken serious, and is probably a bit tired of the way that he is perceived by members of the media. And to his credit, early reports from camp have players moving in and out of drills at a much more urgent pace than in recent years.

As in most other phases of life, it is a lot easier to go from hard to soft than it is to do the opposite. Actor/Hip-Hop artist Ice Cube was the angriest man in America for the better part of two decades. So when Cube decides to star in a fluffy, family-oriented comedy, he can do so without damaging the surplus of street credibility he has built up throughout his career. We have seen a very rigid Tom Coughlin open himself up just a bit and get a great response from his players. When your perpetually strict father finally cracks open a beer with you and treats you like a peer, you feel like a million bucks.

It is a lot tougher for a guy with Wade Phillips’ reputation of being a laid back ‘player’s coach’ to turn it around and be taken seriously. Still, I for one think that he can do it, as long as he remembers to just be Wade Phillips. If Phillips suddenly becomes demonstrative, and starts launching Bill Parcells-esque personal attacks on players, they will turn on him in a second. I don’t think that’s what he has in mind at all, but a dramatic change will not be taken seriously by the players. Wade Phillips is not that guy, nor does he have to be.

All that Coach Phillips has to do is demand more from his players and accept nothing less. He also has to set rules and enforce them. That’s it.

A coach can be more demanding without being necessarily tougher, or more boisterous. Let’s say for example a wide receiver runs a route that is not to the coaches liking, and the coach wants to see a better effort. Some coaches would rip into the player, single him out, and cause a scene. Another coach may just calmly say "Hey, go back and run that again. I know you can give me a better effort than that. I want you to get better." Wade Phillips strikes me as more of the latter than the former. Different approaches work for different guys. You don’t necessarily have to yell, or throw a clipboard, curse out the poor kid who’s job is to follow you around and regulate the slack on your headset.

As far as setting rules and enforcing them, Coach Phillips will need a little help from Jerry Jones. Jerry has got to allow Wade to levy some substantial fines for team rules violations. Setting rules takes the good guy and bad guy out of the equation. Rules are rules, if rules are broken, punishment will be assigned. Simple as that.

I think that Wade Phillips will be just fine, because I think that the players really do want to win for him. They may not scurry in fear of him, but you can’t tell me the guys on that defense don’t respect his mind. How can you not respect a guy who stays up into the middle of the night, trying to think of new ways to put you in a position to succeed? I think that the demonstrative, tyrannical coaches of yesteryear are slowly beginning to die off. You can’t be a pushover, but with today’s athletes, the "in-your-face" coach can lose a locker room in a hurry. Is Wade Phillips the first guy you would turn to if you needed a speech to send the troops off into battle? No. But considering the way the Cowboys ended the 2008 season, motivation should not be an issue. Hopefully the adjustments that Wade Phillips is making to himself are more along the lines of a tune up than a complete overhaul.

Dallas Cowboys 2009 Training Camp: Five Things to Watch (Part II)

Carl Shelton (GloryDayz88) — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 04:35:46 -0000

More photos » by Tony Gutierrez - AP

Cornerback Terence Newman (left) and safety Ken Hamlim (right) are penciled in as Week 1 starters. Other Cowboys will have to prove themselves at training camp.

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[Ed. Note by Grizz]: It turned out that Carl and I both wrote posts about things to watch for at training camp. I was planning to do a Part II to the Five Things post from yesterday, but since Carl already had a post of stuff he's watching out for, we'll use that as part two. [End Note]

Okay, if you want to be technical about it, I won’t be at Cowboys training camp so I won’t be watching anything. I guess I will be listening for, or reading up on a few different storylines coming out of Cowboys camp. Considering the abundant media coverage these days, coaching staffs are reluctant to reveal much before the regular season kicks off. Still, if we look closely, we can probably gather a few vital tidbits of information about the Cowboys upcoming season. Here are the things that I will be looking for at Cowboys camp.

The Battle on the Corner:

Who will start opposite Terence Newman? Orlando Scandrick proved to be a step or two ahead of Mike Jenkins last season. Jenkins has been working hard and if his instincts catch up with his rare size and athleticism, he will be a big time player. Still, Scandrick seems to be the better fit if you take into consideration the wide receivers in the NFC East. There are a few big wideouts in the division like Malcolm Kelly, Devin Thomas , and Ramses Barden, but none of them are ready to seriously contribute. Scandrick is better equipped to hold smaller guys like Santana Moss, Antwaan Randel-El, Desean Jackson, Sinorice Moss, and Steve Smith in check. That’s just my opinion, but Scandrick will man the slot in any scenario.

Anthony Spencer:

The Cowboys’ release of veteran OLB Greg Ellis cleared the way for Anthony Spencer to realize his full potential. With only a pair of rookies (Victor Butler, Brandon Williams) on board to present a legitimate challenge, Spencer can breathe easy atop the Cowboys’ depth chart. You have to admit that Spencer has put together some solid stretches of play in limited action. The Cowboys could reap some immeasurable benefits if Spencer’s play turns the corner in 2009. Having a legitimate pass rushing threat opposite Ware would present a nightmarish conundrum to any opposing offensive coordinator. If Anthony Spencer is just reliable at OLB, he will help the Cowboys by simply providing stability. But if Anthony Spencer proves himself as a player whom offenses must account for, he will be a catalytic force in the Cowboys’ ascension to the upper echelon of NFL defenses.

Left Guard:

Kyle Kosier is still banged up. Montrae Holland is still facing questions about his work ethic. Cory Procter is…Cory Procter. If Montrae Holland finds his motivation, he has a shot this job. Kyle Kosier has done a fine job at left guard in his time as a Cowboy. However, it still just seems like the line needs a bit of a shake up. Montrae Holland would give the Cowboys a road-grader at left guard. An interior line consisting of Holland, Andre Gurode, and Leonard Davis would be frightening as far as the run game is concerned. I just get the feeling that the Cowboys are waiting for Holland to put this battle in a chokehold. It’s still unclear whether or not he has it in him to do so.

Tony Romo:

I’m not looking for perfection. I’m not looking for pinpoint accuracy, or a ton of amazing plays. Just show me that you are in charge, Tony. Terrell Owens was released for a reason, and Tony Romo has to really begin to assert himself now. I don’t think that a good quarterback necessarily jumps down other guys throats. I just want to see other guys responding to Romo’s leadership, and respecting him as the field general. In my opinion, Tony will be fine. He’s still a gunslinger at heart, so his risk-taking ways will still induce cursing and beer throwing amongst Cowboy fans from time to time. But I think that Tony Romo takes football seriously and I expect him to blossom in '09.

Punt Returner:

Terence Newman is the Cowboys’ best punt returner. Given Newman’s recent injury history, I don’t expect to see him back to receive any punts in the near future. Not to sound harsh, but I’m not sure how many more Patrick Crayton punt returns I can witness before I scratch my own eyes out. I am holding out hope that DeAngelo Smith makes the team and claims the punt return job. Smith is no Devin Hester, but he is a bit more athletic and crafty than Crayton. The Cowboys have a new special teams coach, and 12 brand new rookies who will likely have to prove themselves on special teams to make the squad. Special teams were an Achilles heel for the Cowboys last season. I can’t stress enough how important I think the return game is, and the team needs a competent return man to complete the special teams makeover.

Dallas Cowboys Footnotes: Felix, Romo, and D-Ware

Carl Shelton (GloryDayz88) — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 03:35:36 -0000

More photos » by Kathy Willens - AP

Tony Romo still knows how to keep things loose off the field, despite the pressure.

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Less than two weeks remain until the Dallas Cowboys open training camp. Pretty soon we will be opining about the ongoing training camp battles, and the prospects of the coming season. At this particular time however, there is not a ton of earth-moving news coming out of Valley Ranch. There were a few minor things in the news this week that stood out to me. Again, these are not huge issues or news stories, just a few things that I felt were worthy of a little discussion.

Felix Jones and the return game:

No one who matters has come right out and said it, but those closer to the organization than I are insinuating that Felix Jones will again be the Cowboys full-time kickoff returner. If there is any truth to this, let me first say "good move." I have always felt that quality return men have been undervalued. Field position is key. Big returns breathe life into the entire team, and return touchdowns are almost like stealing points. Felix has what it takes to be one of the better return men in the game, and I say go for it.

You can’t play the game scared. Sure, there is a bit of a heightened risk that comes along with special teams play, but you can’t keep a game changer off of a special teams unit on the chance that he may get hurt. With that said, if the Cowboys are leading or trailing by 20 points with 3 minutes left, I would rather see Isaiah Stanback or someone else handling kickoffs.

I know Felix got hurt last season, but I am not ready to buy into the talk about him being fragile. Not yet. Now if he goes on IR again next season then we will have something to talk about. Jones will likely have an expanded role on offense. Still, the amount of touches he gets on offense should not be a number so great that he would be wearing himself down by returning kickoffs. Even if Jones gets 15 offensive touches every game, another 4-5 kickoffs should not be enough to wear down the 22-year old Jones. I think the Cowboys would be making the right call by again making Felix Jones the full-time kickoff returner.

Tony Romo and the camera:

Funnyordie.com is one of my favorite websites. It is basically a tube for funny videos and segments of standup comedy. Check out this video, starring none other than our beloved starting quarterback Tony Romo ((FanShot here from Seanrude). I’m sure Tony didn’t write it himself, but I’ve got to say it’s pretty funny. It’s not nearly as funny as this video about Tony, but not bad.

I’m going to take a position that is probably going to be an unpopular one on this subject. I personally was refreshed by this video. I’ve never seen Tony show this side before. I was just happy to see that he wasn’t in a basement somewhere, toeing a shotgun trigger, thinking about all of the pressure that now rests on his shoulders. I’m glad to see that he is loose because he needs to be.

It doesn’t bother me when Romo makes a funny video, or goes off and plays golf for a weekend. The last thing I want is for him to be agonizing over the pressure. I would probably think a little less of him if he kept his head down solely to please those who question his dedication. This video shows that Tony Romo is comfortable in his own skin, and that he doesn’t care much about what anyone has to say about him. I like that.

DeMarcus Ware and the contract:

Am I the only one who is reluctant to read any stories that have the words DeMarcus Ware and contract in the heading. All this time I’ve been kind of closing my eyes, and never really entertaining the horrific thought of DeMarcus Ware eventually hitting the open market. It’s one of those issues that you treat the same way you treat those old student loans. You just think that if you just don’t open the mail, then maybe it will just go away.

I still think that this will get done. The Cowboys want DeMarcus Ware to be a Cowboy for life, and by all accounts, Ware wants the same. Supposedly the two sides are a ways apart on the proposed length of the deal. The Cowboys want to lock Ware up long term, but Ware wants a bit shorter deal, so that he can cash in on one more payday in his prime.

I know I’m the guy who is always saying never to negotiate out of fear, but boy if there is ever a time to just bend over and take it, this is it. I hope that the Cowboys do whatever they can to get this deal done. Ware is the guy who makes the defense go, and has a chance to truly be an all-time great. The scary thing is that he is still improving. With Wade Phillips running the defense full-time, and hopefully a bit better coverage in the secondary, Ware’s numbers could go through the roof this season. Ware is already poised to become one of the highest paid defensive players in the league's history, and he isn’t going to get any cheaper.

The Pittsburgh Steelers re-signed Defensive Player of the Year James Harrison for 6 years/ $51.75 million. Baltimore’s Terrell Suggs just re-signed with the team for 6 years/$63 million ($33.1 million guaranteed). It was said months ago that these two deals, upon completion would serve as somewhat of a template for Ware’s deal. The problem is that DeMarcus Ware is younger and more talented than both players, so his contract should trump both of these. I really hope that this thing doesn’t get ugly. The Cowboys have got to do whatever it takes to get Ware locked up for the future.

Cowboys' Three-Headed RB Monster: Best In The Business?

Carl Shelton (GloryDayz88) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 04:07:39 -0000

Marion Barber, Felix Jones, and Tashard Choice. Any offensive coordinator would be elated to have such an outstanding trio of backs at their disposal. As Cowboy fans it is difficult to step away from our slightly slanted vision, as we are quick to adorn the Cowboys three-headed monster the best in the business. All biases aside, how does the Cowboys backfield stack up against the rest of the league? Sure, there are quite a few remarkable one-two punches, but can anybody go three deep as well as the ‘Boys can? Let's take a look at some of the more potent projected backfields around the league.

New England Patriots - Fred Taylor, Sammy Morris, Laurence Maroney - It is my guess that Kevin Faulk will be the odd man out in an extremely talented Patriots backfield. In my opinion, Fred Taylor has been on of the league’s most underrated backs for the better part of his career. I know it doesn’t seem like it, but Fred Taylor, barring injury will hurdle the 12,000 yard mark this season. That’s a heck of an achievement, and Taylor still looks to have quite a bit in the tank. Sammy Morris is steady, and Laurence Maroney is a dynamic talent when healthy. While Taylor vs. Barber is probably a push, neither Sammy Morris or Laurence Maroney is the game-changing homerun threat that Felix Jones is for the ‘Boys.

Advantage: Cowboys

New York Jets - Thomas Jones, Leon Washington, Shonn Greene - The Jets did not get into this conversation until they solidified their backfield depth by selecting Iowa standout Shonn Greene with the first pick of the 3rd round of this year’s draft. Thomas Jones is a Pro Bowler, and Leon Washington is a speedy playmaker, not at all dissimilar to the Cowboys’ Felix Jones. Washington and Jones are proven NFL commodities, but Greene, who at times looked sluggish as a Hawkeye runner must still prove that he can be effective against the speed of the NFL game.

Advantage: Cowboys

Baltimore Ravens - LeRon McClain, Ray Rice, Willis McGahee - The Ravens have an interesting mix at running back. They have the 260 lb. LeRon McClain, who will be listed as a fullback this season, but will likely still see a substantial chunk of the carries. In complete contrast, the Ravens also have the diminutive (5’8") Ray Rice, and the well rounded but unspectacular Willis McGahee. All three of these backs are good, buy I personally wouldn’t put any of them ahead of Marion Barber or Felix Jones.

Advantage: Cowboys

Tennessee Titans - Lendale White, Chris Johnson, Javon Ringer - Assuming Ringer is able to beat out former second round pick Chris Henry, the Titans backfield looks eerily similar the Dallas’. Lendale White is the bruiser that Marion Barber is. Chris Johnson is the Titans' slightly faster version of Felix Jones. Ringer is the well rounded, steady 3rd stringer that Tashard Choice is. In my opinion, Barber is a little better than White, but Johnson is a little bit better than Jones. Ringer and Choice should be on about the same plane.

Advantage: Push

Oakland Raiders - Darren McFadden, Michael Bush, Justin Fargas - I know it gets caught up in all of the madness that is the Oakland Raiders, but the team is absolutely loaded at running back. Darren McFadden played most of the season dinged up, but showed that he can be a terror when healthy. Fargas is a legit NFL lead back, and the 245 lb. Bush began to reveal his true potential when he ripped through a desperate Buccaneers defense for 177 yards in the season finale. The Raiders are as talented in the backfield as any team in the business.

Advantage: Raiders

New York Giants - Brandon Jacobs, Ahmad Bradshaw, Andre Brown - Even after losing Derrick Ward to the Buccaneers this offseason, the Giants still have a formidable threesome at running back. Though often injured, the 265-lb. Jacobs is still the NFL’s unstoppable force. He is simply too big to be brought down by one man, and you can almost hear him saying Fee…Fi…Fo…Fum as he drags linebackers into the second level. Bradshaw delivers some homerun ability, but is just short of electric. Andre Brown however, reminds me a lot of Marion Barber, and may be one of the steals of the draft. Still, I can’t give too much credit to unproven commodities.

Advantage: Cowboys

Carolina Panthers - DeAngelo Williams, Jonathan Stewart, Mike Goodson - In my eyes, Williams and Stewart comprise the leagues top duo at the running back position. If Goodson can show anything at all, I would hand the crown to Carolina. It took a while, but last season Williams showed that he was the dynamic, do-everything back that everyone expected him to be when the Panthers drafted him in the first round of the 2006 draft. Stewart is a joy to watch for any old school football fan. Stewart is every bit the violent, powerful runner that Marion Barber is, with a little more speed. Still, I can’t hand this one to Carolina before Goodson proves himself.

Advantage: Cowboys

Who knows whether or not the Cowboys backfield threesome is the league’s best? Who cares? The important thing is that they are undisputedly in the conversation. I am holding out hope that Romo-friendly is just Jerry Jones’ way of saying run-heavy. I know that given the weapons the Cowboys have on the perimeter, and the tendencies of the offensive coordinator, the Cowboys will probably throw the football often and deep. But with a backfield as talented as this, it would be a lot of fun to see the Cowboys pound teams into submission with the running game from time to time.

Going Back To The Future With the Dallas Cowboys

Carl Shelton (GloryDayz88) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 23:53:25 -0000

More photos » by Tony Gutierrez - AP

Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips instructs one of his quality control coaches at a recent practice. "Great Scott son! Get me some gull-danged plutonium, dad-gummit! It's right over there!"

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As many of you may know, DC.com is running a series on the 50 greatest Cowboys of all time. The countdown currently stands at #15, where DC.com has named wide receiver Drew Pearson as the 15th greatest Cowboy of all time. Reading about all of the Cowboys of old brings back some fond memories, and also invokes a little imagination. As I continue to read through the series, I continue to mull over one question. If I had an ‘85 Delorian, a flux capacitor, and a little plutonium, what former Cowboy would I travel back in time to kidnap and add to the current unit?

Offensively it is easy to go with one of the all-time greats. Sure, any of us would probably love to have Roger Staubach or Troy Aikman to come in and guide the ship. Both are Hall of Fame quarterbacks with Super Bowl rings. But with Tony Romo on board, I personally would not spend my one and only pick on a quarterback, however important the position may be. It is natural to blurt out a name like Drew Pearson, Michael Irvin, Tony Dorsett, or Emmitt Smith. For this particular post, I wanted to dig a little deeper and tag players who would fit need areas for the current Cowboys.

My list is not by any means all-inclusive. There have been too many great Cowboys over the years to include them all, so forgive me if I left out your guy.

Wouldn’t Bob Hayes be the perfect speed complement to Roy Williams? No offense to Miles Austin, but I’d jump at the chance to have the former Olympic 100 meter champion who almost single-handedly changed defensive schematics forever. I know that people don’t initially associate the name Raghib Ismail with the Dallas Cowboys, but the guy put up some respectable numbers when he was here. Ismail would be an awesome fit with today’s Cowboys because he has a skill set that no other current Cowboy receiver has. Ismail is the smaller, shiftier, deep threat type who was great after the catch, and would also be a great help on returns.

If I could fit a '96 Larry Allen into my ‘85 Delorian, he just might be the guy to grab. The still-ailing Kyle Kosier and the questionably-motivated Montrae Holland are currently scrapping for the starting left guard position. A young Larry Allen would be a huge (no pun intended) addition to the Cowboys line. Could you imagine the sheer girth the Cowboys would have on the interior with Allen, Andre Gurode and Leonard Davis all inside? Frightening.

It would be nice to have the Moose back. I love the Cricket (Deon Anderson) but Daryl Johnston is one of the greatest blocking fullbacks of all-time… Does anyone else think as highly of Kelvin Martin as I do? I always thought Martin was fantastic slot receiver, and was likely skilled enough to wrestle the job away from Patrick Crayton… I don’t see running back as a need area for the current Cowboys. I love Marion Barber, Felix Jones, and Tashard Choice, but I would probably take the Minnesota Vikings route and trade all three of them for Herschel Walker. I know Emmitt Smith and Tony Dorsett are among the all-time greats, but Herschel Walker was a once in a lifetime talent. I would love to see how great Walker could be surrounded by the current Cowboys’ cache of offensive weaponry.

Defensively, guys like Deion Sanders, Randy White, Bob Lilly and Chuck Howley are no-brainers. But again, let’s dig just a bit deeper.

Chuck Howley was probably the greatest Cowboy linebacker of all time, but he would have probably played the same position as Bradie James. I am in no way insinuating that Bradie James is better than Chuck Howley. I’m just saying that James is solid, and I would rather let him stay put, and pair him with Thomas "Hollywood" Henderson. Henderson was the rangy, athletic linebacker that is the perfect fit for the weak inside spot in a Wade Phillips defense. Henderson’s athleticism would be the perfect complement to James’ nastiness.

Want to improve the already scary Cowboys pass rush? How about a pair of #94’s screaming off the edges playing ‘meet you at the quarterback?’ A young Charles Haley was easily athletic enough to stand up in a 3-4, and if memory serves me correctly, i think he did a bit of that in his San Francisco days. Ware and Haley together would be unblockable.

Another former Cowboy who could possibly benefit from a position change with today’s squad would be Leon Lett. A tackle in his Cowboy days, Lett’s size, strength, long arms, and inside rush skills would make him the perfect penetrating 5-technique end for Wade Phillips’ scheme… I like Ken Hamlin and Gerald Sensabaugh, but there are no less than four former Cowboys safeties who could probably force either of them to the bench. Darren Woodson, Cliff Harris, Charlie Waters, Mel Renfro. Take your pick…With Keith Davis gone, how about bringing back Kenny Gant or Billy Davis to bolster the special teams units?

Again, this post was purely intended for fun. I could go on and on for days about the Cowboys of old. The guys I mentioned are just a few of my own personal favorites. So, if you could go back in time to grab any player who has ever sported the star on his helmet (at his best), and add him to today's roster who would it be?

Golden Opportunities For a Few Cowboys

Carl Shelton (GloryDayz88) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 23:48:52 -0000

"Success occurs when preparation and opportunity intersect." I’m not sure on who said it first, but that is one of my favorite phrases in the world, and boy is it ever true. Take a guy like Tashard Choice for example. In college Choice found himself behind future NFL backs like Adrian Peterson and P.J. Daniels. In his inaugural NFL season he found himself third on the depth chart behind Pro Bowler Marion Barber, and first-round pick Felix Jones. In both instances, Choice kept himself prepared and was able to capitalize on his opportunity when he was called upon.

The stars are beginning to align for a few other current Cowboys. A handful of Cowboys have a chance to prove their worth, and play more significant roles than they ever have. What remains to be seen is whether or not said players will truly be ready to make the most of their opportunities.

A look at a few Cowboys who have a chance to make a significantly greater impact going forward:

Anthony Spencer, OLB: The Cowboys’ release of veteran linebacker Greg Ellis says a lot about the kind of hopes the Cowboys are hanging on Spencer. The team will most likely enter the season with only a pair of rookies to provide any type of a mirage of competition for Spencer. This job has been handed to Spencer on a blue and silver platter. He is a natural rusher with adequate speed, and sturdy enough base to perform well against the run. He has the tools, but his embarrassing offseason arrest validates questions about his maturity. Spencer is a former first-round pick entering his third season. Time to step your game up, Spence.

Montrae Holland, G/C: This Cowboys want badly for Montrae Holland to succeed. The question is whether or not Holland wants to succeed as bad as the team wants him to. Last year’s starter Kyle Kosier has been a rock for the Cowboys, but his injury status creates uncertainty at the left guard position. The team loves the push that Holland generates in the running game, and would love for him to just grab this training camp battle by the throat. However, to no one’s surprise, Holland reportedly showed up to mini-camp in less than outstanding shape, and performed averagely. The Cowboys have been working Holland in at center as well, so even if Kosier does reclaim his starting spot at left guard, Holland would still be in contention for the swing G/C this season. It’s all on the table for Holland, but I guess there must be some reason Mike Shanahan let him go for a late round pick.

Doug Free, OT: When Doug Free was drafted a lot of Cowboy fans looked at him as possibly being the steal of the draft and maybe the heir apparent to Flozell Adams’ left tackle position. Neither has come to fruition, but there is still time for Free. Doug Free was drafted because he had the physical talent, most notably technique and foot-quickness to be an NFL left tackle. It’s not clear what’s holding Free back, but he’s got to put it all together soon. Free will probably be given this season to prove that he is an eventual starter. If not he will likely have to find employment elsewhere. Free had better be ready though, because at Flozell Adams’ age (and size) the injury bug is a little harder to elude. Something tells me Free may get his shot this season.

Junior Siavii, DT: Siavii last recorded a countable NFL statistic in 2005. 2005! With that said he is probably still the frontrunner to be Jay Ratliff’s backup at nose tackle. Siavii was the 36^th overall pick in the 2004 draft. You don’t get selected that high without talent. Siavii is the best athlete among the backup NT candidates but has never been able to put it together. Maybe being reunited with former University of Oregon teammate and friend Igor Olshansky will light a fire under Junior. This job is his for the taking. If Siavii can show the Cowboys that he can be even adequate, he would add a lot to the team from an standpoint of depth and flexibility.

Jason Williams, ILB: I know he was only a 3^rd round pick but Jason Williams kind of feels like the chosen one, doesn’t he? From the minute he was drafted, Williams was talked about as the nickel linebacker of the present, and the weak inside backer of the future. The knock on Williams coming out of college was that he was a better athlete than he was a football player. If Williams is able to pick up the mental part of the game and let his great athletic ability do the rest, the Cowboys will be able to stop the revolving door at weak inside linebacker. Williams will face competition from fellow 2009 draftee Stephen Hodge and holdover Bobby Carpenter.

Isaiah Stanback, WR: Do I really have to say anything here? Just stay healthy, man. That’s all you’ve got to do, Ike. Just stay healthy, please. That’s been easier said than done for Stanback, who has struggled with injuries dating back to his college days. It will be a shame to see so much natural ability go to waste if Stanback can’t fight off the injury bug this season. It’s unclear how far along he is in his progression as a wide receiver (which has no doubt been slowed by injuries), but Stanback is still the team’s best kick return option after Felix Jones. Though he has no experience, Stanback’s open-field vision, quickness, and change of direction capabilities lend itself to punt returning. Also, it would be a lot of fun to see the former University of Washington quarterback line up in the Wildcat. Stanback will be competing with seventh-rounders and undrafted free agents for the fifth or sixth wideout spot, so if he's not on crutches at the end of camp he will probably make the squad. If Stanback can stay healthy, he may have a chance to have a big role this season. That is one gargantuan "if" though.

Cowboys Offense: The Kitna Effect

Carl Shelton (GloryDayz88) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 03:31:45 -0000

More photos » by Tony Gutierrez - AP

Jon Kitna can help the Cowboys in a big way this season...even if he never plays a down.

Browse more photos »

The Dallas Cowboys never made the blockbuster move this offseason. The Cowboys were however quite efficient at filling holes with affordable free agents. One of the first moves the Cowboys made at the onset of free agency was shipping aging cornerback Anthony Henry to Detroit in exchange for quarterback Jon Kitna. This move was only a footnote to all of the madness that is the free agency signing period, but for the Cowboys it could prove to be the biggest move of the offseason.

Jon Kitna is not without his flaws. He has struggled with injury of late and has always had a propensity for throwing interceptions. Still, Kitna is quite the upgrade over last year’s backup, Brad Johnson. If nothing else, Kitna’s arm strength will force other teams to respect the entire field. Kitna’s arm will also keep the team from having to reign in the playbook, which Kitna is quite familiar with, having spent time in a system with similar terminology in Detroit.

Kitna knows he is not here to compete for a starting job and has said as much. While he offers security as a backup quarterback, his greatest value may be as a mentor. As a Bengal in 2003, Kitna served as a mentor for #1 overall pick Carson Palmer. The fact that Kitna was willing to groom a rookie to eventually supplant him says a lot in itself about Kitna’s character. Much like Trent Dilfer, Kitna is a player whose average play is not a fair indicator of his immense knowledge of the game. Some guys are just better teachers than players, and Carson Palmer has always gone out of his way to attribute much of his success to Kitna’s teaching. Palmer believes that Kitna will be an asset to Tony Romo as well.

Palmer Tuesday on ESPN’s The Herd with Colin Cowherd:

"…you said that the biggest move of the offseason wasn’t Jay Cutler. It wasn’t T.O., but it was Jon Kitna going to Dallas, and you couldn’t have been more right…If Tony just follows what he (Kitna) says and listens to him, he’s gonna have a great year."

Maybe a guy like Kitna is just what Tony Romo needs. A backup who is not exactly breathing down his neck, but who is a good and willing teacher. Kitna is not a Hall of Famer by any stretch of the imagination, but he has seen a lot more live bullets than Tony Romo has in his short career. Kitna should be a great guy for Romo to have with him in the film room. If nothing else, Kitna ought to be able to draw from his experience and drop a few words of wisdom on Tony when times get tough. If things go well for the Cowboys, Jon Kitna won’t be playing a single meaningful down this season. If things go well for Tony Romo, it may have something to do with Jon Kitna.