Dallas Cowboys verse N.Y Giants = to first playoff game

For Giants, it's one for all
Facing Dallas means season
Gary Myers is a Daily News sports columnist

The Giants are in a one-game season, even if they do have five games remaining. It's virtually win-or-go-home against the Cowboys in one of their biggest regular-season games in the last 20 years.

They're still alive in the wild-card race if they lose at home to Dallas, but if they have any desire to take their season at least a couple of weeks into January and possibly to Detroit, then they want no part of being a wild card. They need to be NFC East champions and at least get a home game in the first round of the playoffs, even if they don't get a first-round bye as one of the top two seeds.

This game is the Giants' season. This is a game they should win.
Bill Parcells made it clear in a conversation Monday with Keyshawn Johnson what Sunday means to the Cowboys. Johnson, speaking yesterday from Dallas, said Parcells told him: "Put up or shut up. Either get it done now or don't get it done at all."

If the Giants beat Dallas, they will have a one-game lead with four to play, have momentum going into Philadelphia and remain in contention for the NFC's No.2 seed. If they lose, that will make it three out of four in the second half of the season and push them one game behind the Cowboys, who would then own the tie-breaker because they will have swept the season series. So, if the Cowboys win Sunday, the Giants must be two games better than the Cowboys in the last four games to win the NFC East. That will be nearly impossible.

It's all about jockeying for playoff position - not just getting into the playoffs, but getting an advantageous seed. Sunday's winner will be in control of the division. The loser watches the scoreboard to check on Atlanta, Tampa and red-hot Minnesota in the wild-card race. The Vikings are a game back of the Giants and hold the head-to-head tiebreaker edge.

The Cowboys and Giants have played dramatic late-season games. Back in 1985, they played for the NFC East title in game 15 in Dallas with the Cowboys winning, 28-21. In the final game of the 1993 season, the Cowboys beat the Giants 16-13 in an overtime classic to win the division, with Emmitt Smith rushing for 168 yards despite playing much of the game with a separated shoulder.

This game is a couple of weeks earlier in the schedule, but the implications are almost as dramatic. Former Cowboys coach Jimmy Johnson said yesterday that he doesn't think the Giants would fall out of the division race if they lose because Dallas has a difficult last four games: home against the Chiefs, at Washington, at Carolina and home against the Rams.

"The Giants have really impressed me in a lot of games," he said.
But he agrees that all the wild card does "is give you another week of play. To do any damage in the playoffs, you have to be at home."
The 1985 Patriots are the only team to get to the Super Bowl after winning three road playoff games.

There isn't much that separates these NFC teams. The Seahawks, who have the conference's best record at 9-2, look beatable, even in Seattle, where they haven't lost this season. But if you have to win two road playoff games before even getting to Seattle for the NFC title game, forget it. At some point, a brick wall pops up on the road and sends a team home.

Since the NFL went to the current setup of four division winners and two wild cards per conference, the wild-card teams are 4-8 in the first round and 0-4 in the divisional round.

This game surely will be as tight as the Oct.16 game in Dallas, when the Giants tied it up with 19 seconds remaining, but then lost on the first possession of overtime. These teams are so evenly matched, they could go to overtime again.

Keyshawn Johnson was asked if he wanted to stir things up with some pregame trash-talking. He actually went the other way when asked what he thought of the Giants.

"I look at them as one of the best teams in the NFC," he said. "They are way better than us."

Still, the last month is difficult for the Giants, even if they beat Dallas: at Philly, Chiefs at home, at Washington and then at the Black Hole in Oakland on New Year's Eve, where the fans might be in a party mood regardless of the Raiders' record. But beating the Cowboys would give the Giants tremendous momentum to make a run to the playoffs.

But if they lose, they will have to be concerned about whether things are starting to fall apart just like the last two years, just a little later. Losing to Seattle and Dallas back-to-back would hurt their confidence. And then going into Philadelphia, even though the Eagles are without Donovan McNabb and his good friend T.O., would not look so easy anymore.
The only thing at stake Sunday for the Giants is their season.

Talking isn't tampering

Charlotte Observer (registration required): Link
November 30

"The Philadelphia Eagles are wrong about filing a tampering complaint with the NFL over comments made by Cowboys owner Jerry Jones."

Dallas Cowboys Getting Help From Rushing Game

Cowboys Getting Help From Rushing Game
By STEPHEN HAWKINS AP Sports Writer

IRVING, Texas (AP) -- When Julius Jones returned healthy after rookie Marion Barber's breakthrough games, it seemed as if the Dallas Cowboys finally had the kind of a 1-2 backfield punch that Bill Parcells wanted.

Except the Cowboys have their two lowest rushing totals of the season in the three games since Jones returned from an ankle injury and shared the load with Barber.

"The run game isn't exactly what I'd like it to be, but I think the potential to have a good running game is here," Parcells said Wednesday. "Although our numbers are not good, the running game has contributed significantly to our record."
Parcells doesn't like the perception that the rushing game isn't being productive. For the coach, it's more than just yards that matter.

Mainly because they average 34 rushing plays a game, the Cowboys (7-4) lead the NFL in time of possession at 33 1/2 minutes per game. And that's big for Parcells in controlling close games - eight of their games have been decided by six points or less, with the four losses by a combined 13 points.

So expect Parcells to continue to be stubborn about running the ball, even if the yards aren't overwhelming (116.9 yards per game).

"You choose to do things for reasons other than what appears to be," Parcells said. "You choose to do things strategically not only to combat your opponents but to attempt to assist your own people."

Rookie Rob Petitti had started every game at right tackle, and Torrin Tucker took over on the left side when two-time Pro Bowl tackle Flozell Adams tore knee ligaments six games ago - during the same time Jones was sitting out.

Plus, quarterback Drew Bledsoe said opposing defenses are blitzing more against the Cowboys.

Barber ran for 95 yards at Seattle on Oct. 23, then had 127 yards and two touchdowns the next week against Arizona in his first start. He even started at Philadelphia, the game Jones returned and after Anthony Thomas, who started the first two games Jones missed, was waived.

The Cowboys had a season-low 58 rushing yards against the Eagles, then after 149 yards against a Detroit team missing several defensive starters, had 85 against Denver.

"I understand the way we're trying to play here, I really do," Bledsoe said. "Do I want to drop back and throw it a bunch? Yeah, that's fun ... At the same time, you do that, you bring a lot of risk into the game that you don't want to have."

If the Cowboys are going to stick to the ground, they need to get some bigger runs. They have only three runs of more than 20 yards: Barber runs of 28 and 26 yards in his two starts and a 25-yarder by Jones before he got hurt.

Since his breakout games, Barber has rushed for 46 (including the 26-yarder), 53 and 28 yards his last three.

"I've just got to know my reads a lot better," Barber said. "Just make one decisive cut and go with it."

Jones, who has 1,368 yards and 10 touchdowns in his first 16 games played during an injured plagued two seasons, said his main concern is that the Cowboys are winning.

Dallas plays Sunday at the New York Giants, with the winner taking a one-game lead in the NFC East with four games left. The Cowboys beat the Giants 16-13 in overtime on Oct. 16, the first game Jones missed.

Can Julius Jones and Marion Barber get the running game going again?

USATODAY.com - Inside Slant
11/30/05

TIDBIT: The Cowboys continue to struggle on the ground no matter who is running the ball. They managed only 85 yards on 32 carries Thursday. Julius Jones had the worst day of his two-year career as a starter. Jones rushed for 55 yards on 20 carries. Marion Barber rushed for 28 yards on nine carries.
Jones is still seeking his first 100-yard game this season.

The Cowboys' inability to run led to a season-high 44 pass attempts by quarterback Drew Bledsoe.

"We just didn't run it well," Cowboys tight end Dan Campbell said. "They moved a lot of their fronts and blitzed us a lot."

WR Patrick Crayton ready to go.

Cowboys WR Patrick Crayton (ankle) is not on the Dallas injury report.It appears he'll return to action this week. He'll probably take over Peerless Price's spot as the No. 3 receiver.

Dallas Cowboy WR Peerless Price could be inactive this week

TIDBIT: Peerless Price is likely to return to the role of No. 4 receiver this week. It's possible he could be inactive, although he's helped on returns in Patrick Crayton's absence.

The Dallas Cowboys release G Ben Noll

Cowboys released G Ben Noll.

Dallas Cowboy CB Anthony Henry sat out practice again today

According to DallasNews.com Henry sat out practice again today. One could conclude that he won't be ready to go against the N.Y. Giants Sunday.

Good news about Crayton though, he's 90% and apparently ready to go.

Dallas Cowboy LB Dat Nguyen placed on IR

Cowboys placed LB Dat Nguyen on injured reserve. Coach Bill Parcells said Nguyen is considering retirement. Nguyen, 30, shut it down after not being able to play through neck and knee injuries to his previously high standards. Scott Shanle and Ryan Fowler had been starting ahead of Nguyen the last four weeks.

Patrick Crayton returned to practice and Parcells said he hopes the WR will be ready for the Giants

Rob Phillips - Email
DallasCowboys.com Staff Writer
November 28, 2005 6:04 PM

TIDBIT: IRVING, Texas - The Cowboys won't release an official injury report until Wednesday, but head coach Bill Parcells said he is hopeful wide receiver Patrick Crayton (ankle), cornerback Anthony Henry (groin), center Al Johnson (knee) and linebacker Scott Shanle (ankle) will be available for Sunday's game against the New York Giants. Crayton returned to practice for one day last week but has missed the past four games after suffering a severe right ankle injury against the Giants on Oct. 16.

"Right now, the ankle is about 90 percent," Crayton said. "I've been running on it, but cutting will be the main test. When I make that first hard cut, that's when I'll know." Parcells said he isn't sure what Crayton's role would be Sunday if he did play. Before the injury, Crayton was the Cowboys' third receiver and punt returner. Peerless Price has handled both duties the past four games. "I practiced (Crayton) some last week and I'm going to try to throw him in there pretty good this week," Parcells said. "My expectations are he'll be doing at least something in this game if he looks OK. If he doesn't look OK, I won't play him."

Philadelphia Eagles have filed a tampering charge against Dallas Cowboys

KFFL reports:

Sun, 27 Nov 2005 09:32:27 -0800Jay Glazer, of FOXSports.com, reports the Philadelphia Eagles have filed a tampering charge against Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones for comments he made during a radio show about Eagles WR Terrell Owens. Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie phoned the NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue to follow up on the claim and was told the league office was looking into it. The league office sent a memo out last week warning teams from directly and indirectly contacting Owens or talk about picking him up, something which makes the Eagles case against Jones stronger.

The Dallas Cowboys sign OT Marcus Price and release LO Ethan Brooks

KFFL reports:

Sun, 27 Nov 2005 07:19:55 -0800Todd Archer, of the Dallas Morning News, reports the Dallas Cowboys have signed free agent OT Marcus Price (Bills).

Sun, 27 Nov 2005 07:19:02 -0800Todd Archer, of the Dallas Morning News, reports the Dallas Cowboys have released OL Ethan Brooks.

The fourth consecutive game that the Dallas Cowboys have allowed fewer than 200 yards passing

USATODAY.com - Inside Slant

TIDBIT: —The Cowboys allowed just 149 yards passing against the Broncos. It was the fourth consecutive game that the Cowboys have allowed fewer than 200 yards passing. However, the Cowboys defense had no reason to celebrate. After also containing the Broncos' vaunted ground game for four quarters, they allowed Ron Dayne to gash them for a 55-yard run in the overtime which set up the game winning field goal.

The Dallas Cowboys sign veteran linebacker Mike Barrow

08:42 PM CST on Sunday, November 27, 2005
By TODD ARCHER / The Dallas Morning News IRVING –

The Cowboys have agreed to terms with veteran linebacker Mike Barrow on a one-year deal, says his agent Marvin Demoff, but before the team can announce a signing, they have to make a roster move. Barrow, 35, has not played in a game since Dec. 28, 2003. After signing a multi-year deal with Washington in 2004, he never played a down for the Redskins because of a knee injury and was cut July 30 in a salary-cap move. Barrow, 6-2, 245 pounds, was a second-round pick of the Houston Oilers in 1993 before joining Carolina in 1997. He signed with the Giants in 2000 and has started 153 of his 171 career games with 1,245 tackles, two interceptions, 23 forced fumbles, 10 fumble recoveries and 43 sacks. Parcells has a history of adding veteran role players. In 1996, he brought in fullback/tight end Keith Byars to New England. In 1998, he signed linebacker Bryan Cox when Cox was contemplating retirement. In 2003 with the Cowboys, he added return specialist Michael Bates.

N.Y. Giants loss as expected, now big show down against the Dallas Cowboys

The N.Y. Giants loss to the Seattle Seahawks as expected setting up the big game against the Dallas Cowboys next week. This is our first must win game, because we can clearly take control of the division.

Reality check, this Dallas Cowboy loss changes nothing...

........next week was always "the must win game". This game was only a measuring stick.

Tough loss, but the Dallas Cowboys Season is not over

Good comments by manofaiki from a sports forum:

13 points.

Lost to 'Skins: by 1 point
Lost to Raiders; by 6 points
Lost to SeaHawks: by 3 points
Lost to Broncos: by 3 points (OT).

Don't forget all the cliffhangers Dallas WON this year, either:

Won over Chargers: by 4 points
Won over 49ers: by 3 points
Won over N.Y. Giants: by 3 points
Won over Philadelphia (2nd game) by 1 point

4 of Dallas' seven wins are by a combined 11 points. Once this team gets some seasoning and all the players learn to play together, it will be very, very dangerous indeed. After all, about 20 of these guys weren't even Cowboys last year, remember!

Ex-Coach Jimmy Johnson on the Dallas Cowboys

Originally posted by daboyz1 from a sport forum:

The Cowboys seem to be building more and more momentum each week. They will have a super test on Thanksgiving against the Broncos. Drew Bledsoe is having a great year despite the fact that Detroit took away his deep passing game on Sunday.

I can see Dallas coach Bill Parcells saying to himself, "My defense is good enough; so I'm going to just pound the ball." He can be really stubborn. But you could tell he really wanted to get Julius Jones untracked in this ball game.

Rookie runner Marion Barber has been solid, but we all know what Jones can do when he is healthy. He's a slasher, a home-run hitter. He will end up making more big plays than what Barber can deliver right now. The combination of those two runners and Bledsoe being able to open up the offense makes me feel that Dallas will simply get better and better. Their defense has been consistent and solid all year long.

When you have a defense like the Cowboys... even in some of their losses, they played well enough to win. They had two collapses at the end, but that's all — maybe two or three plays in each game. Their defense hasn't been really dominated in any game.

Dallas Cowboys haven't feasted AFC West on Thanksgiving

COWBOYS WILL CONTINUE TO CARRY ON
By JEFF LEGWOLD
Scripps Howard News Service

TIDBIT: COWBOYS HAVEN'T FEASTED AFC WEST ON THANKSGIVING

Since 1966, the Cowboys have played on Thanksgiving Day in every season except two (1975 and 1977). They have compiled a 23-13-1 record (a .635 winning percentage), but AFC West teams have held their own, going 2-2 on the holiday.

Date, Opponent, Cowboys result
Nov. 27, 1980, (x)Seattle Seahawks, Won 51-7
Nov. 27, 1986, (x)Seattle Seahawks, Lost 31-14
Nov. 23, 1995, Kansas City Chiefs, Won 24-12
Nov. 22, 2001, Denver Broncos, Lost 26-24(x)

Seattle Was In The Afc West Until 2002.

Hopefully that will change soon!

Catch Dallas Cowboy QB Drew Bledsoe while you can

COWBOYS WILL CONTINUE TO CARRY ON
By JEFF LEGWOLD
Scripps Howard News Service

TIDBIT: CATCH BLEDSOE WHILE YOU CAN

Cowboys quarterback Drew Bledsoe, below, is enjoying a nice career resurgence.After being shipped out of Buffalo _ the Bills since have wavered between J.P. Losman and Kelly Holcomb _ Bledsoe has been reunited with coach Bill Parcells and shares the NFC lead with the Rams' Marc Bulger in passer rating (94.4).Still, it's not difficult for a defense to find Bledsoe. He doesn't move much, or all that well, once he's out of the pocket. Which is why he has been sacked at least three times in five games this season and four times in three games.In his three seasons with the Bills, he was sacked 54, 49 and 37 times.The Cowboys have plenty of speed at receiver, and their tight end, Jason Witten, has been a difficult matchup for opposing linebackers.But give Bledsoe time, and he has plenty of arm and enough savvy to complete the pass.Many of those well- timed throws have been difference makers this season.In four of the Cowboys' seven wins, Bledsoe has completed fewer than 20 passes.

Since 1990 the Dallas Cowboys have never gone 3-0 during the 11 day stretch

Since 1990 the Cowboys have never gone 3-0 during the 11 day stretch:

1990 2-1 (7-9/missed playoffs)
1991 2-1 (11-5/playoffs)
1992 2-1 (13-3/SB Champs)
1993 1-2 (12-4/SB Champs)
1994 2-1 (12-4/playoffs)
1995 2-1 (12-4/SB Champs)
1996 2-1 (10-6/playoffs)
1997 1-2 (6-10/missed playoffs)
1998 2-1 (10-6/playoffs)
1999 2-1 (8-8/playoffs)
2000 1-2 (5-11/missed playoffs)
2001 0-3 (5-11/missed playoffs)
2002 2-1 (5-11/missed playoffs)
2003 1-2 (10-6/playoffs)
2004 1-2 (6-10/missed playoffs)

Right now we are at 2-0. We missed the playoffs twice while going 2-1 (1990 and 2002). Also, twice while going 1-2 we made the playoffs (1993 and 2003).

Of course, there is a first time for everything.

Dallas Cowboy ROH QB Troy Aikman Closer to Hall of Fame

Nov 22, 2:08 PM EST
Aikman, White Closer to Hall of Fame

CANTON, Ohio (AP) -- Former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Troy Aikman and perennial All-Pro defensive end Reggie White head a list of 25 semifinalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
The board of selectors chose them from a list of 112 preliminary nominees, the hall said Tuesday. A list of 15 finalists will be announced in mid-January.

The class of 2006 will be determined at the selection committee's annual meeting Feb. 4 in Detroit, the day before the Super Bowl.

The list of 25 will be reduced by mail ballot to 13 modern-era candidates. The list will increase to 15 finalist nominees with the inclusion of the two recommended candidates of the hall's seniors committee.

This year, they are former Oakland Raiders coach John Madden, and former Cowboys tackle Rayfield Wright.

Aikman led the Cowboys to three Super Bowl victories and was selected to six straight Pro Bowls.
White, who died last December, finished second in career sacks with 198 and was a two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year. White, who spent 15 seasons with Philadelphia, Green Bay and Carolina, was elected to the Pro Bowl a record 13 straight times from 1986-98.

Other modern-era semifinalists are linebackers Harry Carson, Randy Gradishar and Derrick Thomas; center Dermontti Dawson; running back Thurman Thomas; wide receivers Michael Irvin, Andre Reed and Art Monk; defensive ends Fred Dean, Richard Dent, L.C. Greenwood and Claude Humphrey; quarterbacks Warren Moon and Ken Stabler; guards Russ Grimm and Bob Kuechenberg; offensive tackle Gary Zimmerman; cornerbacks Lester Hayes and Roger Wehrli; punter Ray Guy; club owners Art Modell and Ralph Wilson, Jr., and administrator George Young.

Jerry Jones lastest comments on T.O. and the Dallas Cowboys

-- Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, on the Dunham and Miller Show on KCTK in Dallas, on the prospect of Terrell Owens playing for the Cowboys in the future.

"I'm avoiding, deliberately avoiding, saying whether or not the Cowboys would be interested. He's a player that is a competitive player. He's an outstanding addition to an offense ... In general, I am a risk-taker. We've gone down that road. We've had some situations that worked and some that didn't. Alonzo Spellman had a great year with us. Alonzo certainly had some issues ... I probably have a propensity to try and make things work ... We've got a quarterback in Bledsoe who is arguably as fine a long-ball thrower as there is in the league. A top receiver could flourish with Drew Bledsoe. That's always appealing.''

Our Dallas Cowboys verse the Denver Broncos is nothing but a measuring stick.

If we beat Denver we have accomplished nothing. This is an AFC-NFC match-up. Thats all.

The game to win is the following week at New York. Even if we lose to the Broncos, we still can "touch" Giants the following week (whether they win or lose) and pull ourselves back into first place.

Cowboys win (8-3), Giants win (8-3) = showdown next week for first place. NOTE: Dallas wins their in first place. N.Y. wins their in first place.

Cowboys win (8-3), Giants loss (7-4) = showdown next week for first place. NOTE: Dallas wins they have the inside lane. N.Y. wins both teams are tied due to both teams conference records.

Cowboys lose (7-4), Giants loss (8-3) = showdown next week for first place. NOTE: If Dallas wins their back in first place. N.Y. wins they have the inside lane.

The answer still remains the same.

Like I said, this game is nothing but a "measuring stick" thats all.

Dallas Cowboy QB Drew Bledsoe over the last 4 games

Thanks to big_neil from a sports forum:

Bledsoe over the last 4 games: 61/95 (64%) 662 yards 3 TD 3 INT 7 YPA 81.1 Rating. 3 Wins 1 Loss. Those numbers are remarkably similar to Troy Aikman's career statistics (61% 1 TD per game, 7 YPA 81 Rating).

Dallas Cowboy WR Keyshawn Johnson calls the Chicago Bears the best team in the NFC

Measuring up with Broncos
By MAC ENGEL
Star-Telegram Staff Writer

IRVING -- Keyshawn Johnson calls the Chicago Bears the best team in the NFC. He ranks his Cowboys behind the Seattle Seahawks, the New York Giants, the Carolina Panthers, etc.

"We're about sixth," the Cowboys receiver said.

With the 8-2 Denver Broncos coming in on Thursday, the Cowboys (7-3) could make a big move up in the next Keyshawn Johnson Power Poll.

"Denver is playing as well as anybody," Cowboys quarterback Drew Bledsoe said. "This is a chance to see how we stack up."

And playing the Broncos on Thanksgiving Day might be a good omen, win or lose. Merely playing Denver has served as a sign of good things to come for the Cowboys.

The last three times the Cowboys defeated Denver in the regular season, they won the Super Bowl.

And in the eight seasons they've had a regular-season meeting with Denver, the Cowboys have made the playoffs six times, reached the NFC title game five times and won the Super Bowl three times. The Cowboys are 5-4 all-time against Denver, including a 27-10 victory in Super Bowl XII.
So while the Cowboys are abuzz with coach Bill Parcells' high standards, the standard for Cowboys teams has been that when they play the Broncos, good things happen.

A Time For Giving Thanks

Good read, posted by Azriel from a sport forum:

As we eagerly approach another Thanksgiving, it is appropriate to reflect on all that we each have to be thankful for. Whether our assets include love, friendship, family, good health, finances, and/or "just" happiness, thankfulness is due. We Cowboys fans should be especially thankful. In addition to some or all of the above, we are blessed with a team that has us all brimming with unbridled excitement and resurgent anticipation.

Sure, it's just football, but who among us doesn't flat-out feel better about life right now? Who among us doesn't unabashedly smile these days at the mere mention of "The Dallas Cowboys"? Who among us doesn't walk with just a little more bounce in our steps? Who among us hasn't at least thought about buying some new Cowboys garb or paraphrenalia, to proudly sport any and everywhere? Who among us doesn't feel at least just a little bit better about OURSELVES because we're fans of THE Dallas Cowboys right now? Sure, some of us complain at least every other week about BP's "3 Yards and a Cloud of Dust" offensive philosophy, Sean Payton's play-calling, the games being too close, or our Defense giving up too many big plays. And all of those are legitimate, debatable points. But isn't it great to be in a position to gripe about "only" being 7-3 instead of 9-1 or 8-2...or what the heck...10-0, instead of wondering if we'll break .500 for the season? For those of us ...uhhh... YOU (LOL) who never complain, and are just thrilled to no end at where we are, isn't that a marvelous feeling...."just" WINNING!

So, as we each celebrate Thanksgiving in our own way, including but not limited to over-eating and/or over-drinking and of course, rolling up in front of the TV to watch our "Boyz" take on "Da Donkeys", take a moment...just a moment...and give thanks to Whoever or Whatever for OUR 2005-2006 Dallas Cowboys...still AMERICAS' TEAM, and most importantly ... OUR team!

Dallas Cowboys TE Sean Ryan may be called to active roster

Dallas Cowboys TE Sean Ryan, who is on the team's practice squad, may be called up to the active roster to replace TE Brett Pierce (knee), who is out for the remainder of the season.

Dallas Cowboys CB Anthony Henry likely to start

KFFL reports:
Mon, 21 Nov 2005 11:54:03 -0800

Dallas Cowboys CB Anthony Henry (groin) played in a limited role during Week 11. He played in the team's nickel defense and did well. Henry should be able to return to the starting lineup during Week 12.

Dallas Cowboy WR Patrick Crayton injury update

KFFL reports:
Mon, 21 Nov 2005 11:56:57 -0800

Dallas Cowboys WR Patrick Crayton (ankle) may return to practice during the coming week but it is unlikely he'll play during Week 12.

The Dallas Cowboys move up to the No.1 ranking in the NFC

Peter King's Monday Morning QB (cont.)
Posted: Monday November 21, 2005 9:24AM;
Updated: Monday November 21, 2005 12:17PM

The Fine Fifteen:
1. Indianapolis (10-0).
2. Denver (8-2).
3. Pittsburgh (7-3).
4. San Diego (6-4).
5. Dallas (7-3). Thanksgiving dinners nationwide are planned for 3:15 EST, 2:15 CST, 1:15 MST, 12:15 PST. At least that will be the requests from football fans in homes across this great land. Cowboys-Broncos (combined record: 15-5) meet an hour later. That should be an easy one to digest.

Coach Bill Parcells on verge of signing 4-year extension?

Taken from a pretty decent poster on the philly.com Eagle discussion board.

Just heard on the radio down here that Parcells and Jones are working on a 4-year contract extension. Parcells said he didn't want to go into next season with it being the final year on his current agreement. He also said the he has never had as much fun coaching a team as he has his current one.

Dallas Cowboy QB Drew Bledsoe had a mild concussion?

Thanks to RCowboy fan for a sports forum:

I heard he got some kind of mild concussion most likely, according to Jerry Jones, at least that was said on here locally on ESPN radio.If so, I guess that might be the reason Bledsoe played bad 2nd quarter onwards. He missed quite a few wide open recievers even when he had time. You could see he had quite of options several times when you watch live in stadium.

Dallas Cowboy QB Drew Bledsoe QB rating today: 62 rating

Not a good day.

Drew Bledsoe completed 12-of-23 passes for 110 yards in week 11. It appears that the NFC is figuring Bledsoe out? He's averaging only 165 yards over the last four games, with 3 TDs over that span.

I don't think so. Bledsoe's passing is not the focus of Parcells offense, rather ball-control and the running game is.

Let's hope things are better for Bledsoe on Thanksgiving Day.

Dallas Cowboy CB Terence Newman (Game MVP) on post-game show

Thanks to TrueblueCowboy from a sport forum:

a) Terence Newman (Game MVP) on post-game show selected by Brad and Babe as the game MVP:
b) Asked what the secret was for him and Aaron Glenn to play the bigger physical receiver types on Detroit. Newman said you just need to have heart.
c) Being a big receiver gives you less leverage and makes you a big target. Big guy might not be as fast. Have to play them different but they do have disadvantages. Helps to practice against a guy like Key.
d) Loves returning punts. Feels like a running back when he does it. Thought he was going to score on that firsty one and also thought for a sec he was going to score on that second punt return.
e) They're taught by Cowboys def back coach to rough up receivers. Not much separation and want to punish receivers.
Asked how difficult it will be to play Thanksgiving with such little rest. Doesn't think it will be that hard since defense didn't have that many plays and offense was on field for so long.

Our Dallas Cowboys' Rookies Hit the Wall?

Good question posted by sago1 from a sport forum:

Since the bye week we have looked sluggish & I think our rookies have hit the wall, particularly Pettiti & Ware-- Pettiti has played every offensive down and Ware has played extensively (he also learning new position and being doubleteamed). Same goes for Spears & Canty, although being rotated constantly has helped. The only rookies with any zip left are Barber (didn't play much til 5th game & Burnett who just now getting playing time. Don't see how Parcells can overcome this problem--cause the bye week didn't solve it. Didn't get to see the game here in Florida but from what I understand our OL isn't getting the job down. Pettiti hitting the wall explains him and Tucker will never replace Adams. Johnson lacks strength/size (although I wonder if in offseason he can increase strength and learn leverage) and gets pushed back and Allen/Riveria unable to help him and also the tackles. Since Parcells doesn't trust the OL to protect Bledsoe, coaches are calling conservative game to prevent Bledsoe from getting killed and ending our season. Unless somehow Cowboys can turn up the volume in the Denver game, I now doubt we can beat the Broncos. Our OL no longer can protect Bledsoe enough so he has time to get the ball off and our defense is wearing down. Don't mean to sound pessimistic and maybe somehow we can turn it around on Thursday, sure hope so.

2005 Dallas Cowboys are still tracking with the 1996 New England Patriots

Our 2005 Dallas Cowboys are still tracking with the 1996 New England Patriots.

Some say history repeats itself, who knows for sure?

Coach Bill Parcells not happy with Dallas Cowboy win over the Detroit Lions

Drew Pearson Post-Game Radio - Thanks TruBlueCowboy

TIDBIT: Coach Parcells says he's not happy in these press conferences, probably talking about weak oline/dline play in recent weeks and fact that Cowboys won't be beatting a team like Denver if they play like they have recently.Parcells made right decision trying to run the ball so many times on that failed TD in first half that eventually went for 19 yard field goal. You have to send a mesage that we are the bulllies and can ram it down your throat. Just didn't execute. Lead back was at fault in 3 of those failed goalline running plays.

Parcells wanted to make this a physical game and not much passing. Game might have been over in 2 hours if not for all penalties. Bill probably wanted to condense gameplan, keep basic and simple, run a lot and then focus more on the best oppoent coming up very shortly. (Denver)

One of the few times this season where our Dallas Cowboys will be the prohibitive favorite

Cowboys a rare favorite
By Mac Engel
Star-Telegram Staff Writer

Pick of the litter
As corny as the method was, the hanging of mousetraps inside the Cowboys’ locker room complete with cheese served a purpose. A win today against the Detroit Lions (4-5) would give the Cowboys a three-game winning streak, and keep them in first place in the NFC East. A loss, and not only do the Cowboys move closer to .500, but they again raise doubts about their contender status.

Today is one of the few times this season where they will be the prohibitive favorite. One of a very few “gimmes” on their schedule.

So far, the Cowboys are 2-0 in their “gimme” games; at San Francisco and at home against the Arizona Cardinals. And the Lions represent the last “gimme.”

“We feel good about where we stand in terms of our record, but what makes me optimistic is that our best football is ahead,” Cowboys quarterback Drew Bledsoe said. “But it has to happen quickly. I am optimistic because I think this team is better than the way we’ve played.”

The Dallas Cowboys Re-Sign Billy Cundiff; Cut Suisham

dallascowboy.com

IRVING, Texas - When kicker Billy Cundiff originally suffered the quadriceps tear back in training camp, the Cowboys knew there would be an opportunity to re-sign him at some point, but it would be well down the road.

In fact, they were hoping they could get by without him. And for the most part they have. But when the opportunity finally arrived to re-sign the fourth-year kicker, the Cowboys have jumped at the chance. After an impressive workout on Friday here at Valley Ranch, the Cowboys signed Cundiff Saturday afternoon and promptly released rookie kicker Shaun Suisham, who has handled the kicking duties for the Cowboys for the last two games.

Cundiff now takes over and will be ready for Sunday's game with the Lions (Noon, CST) at Texas Stadium. Cundiff re-signed to a one-year deal worth the fourth-year minimum $455,000, although the kicker will receive less than half of that total since only seven games remain in the regular season.

Ex-Dallas Cowboy Kicker Billy Cundiff could be signed in the near future

Billy Cundiff worked out with the Cowboys and could be signed in the near future.After reaching an injury settlement with the team last year, this is the first week the Cowboys could re-sign Cundiff. They recently released Jose Cortez and could be in the market for another kicker.

The Dallas Cowboys signed Tyson Walter

The Cowboys signed Tyson Walter Friday.After Todd Wade was placed on the injured list, Dallas signed Walter as a backup lineman.

Coach Bill Parcells won't name the Dallas Cowboy starting RB

KFFL reports:
Fri, 18 Nov 2005 17:12:43 -0800

DallasCowboys.com reports Dallas Cowboys head coach Bill Parcells didn't offer anything concrete on whether RB Julius Jones would make his first start Sunday, Nov. 20, since spraining his ankle against the Philadelphia Eagles Oct. 9.

Philadelphia Eagles T.Owens will not return in 2005

KFFL reports
Sat, 19 Nov 2005 07:27:45 -0800
Mark Eckel, of the Trenton Times, reports Philadelphia Eagles WR Terrell Owens will not return to the team in 2005, regardless of the outcome of his current grievance against the team. "He's not coming back," a source said. "That, for sure, I can tell you." While the locker room on Thursday, Nov. 17, was filled with players coming to Owens' defense, yesterday the mood was more subdued as veteran players took the middle ground.

FYI: Did the Philadelphia Eagles pull a fast one on the Dallas Cowboys?

This question was asked on another forum by HRF12:

During Monday night's game with the Eagles, Donavan McNabb played the quarterback position most of the game. Backup quarterback Koy Detmer held for field goals and extra points. Mike McMahon came into the game in the 4th quarter to play quarterback for the last series of the game. How can this be? Please correct me if I am wrong, but the only way the third string quarterback can enter the game is if the first two are injured. Detmer was shown on camera preparing to come into the game. What is the deal? Did the Eagles pull a fast one?

Feedback from LeonDixson from a sports forum:

This was answered in a column the other day. It might have been Mick's mail. I don't remember. Anyway the answer is that the rules were changed a couple of years ago to allow you to play the 3rd QB in the 4th quarter without forfeiting the right to bring your other QBs back in. It was changed to allow teams to give developmental players some playing time in blow-out games. I've never seen a team do that though.

The Detroit Lions have been struggling on the road, now they come to Dallas

TIDBIT: According to CNNSI, they have lost 32 of their last 36 road games.This year, Lions: 1-3 on the road; Cowboys: 3-1 at home.

Coach Bill Parcells is Considering Sending back-up Dallas Cowboy QB Drew Henson to Europe

Originally posted by Dallas 31 from a sports forum:

In Bill's weekly conference call with the Detroit media (note: being that Detroit is in Michigan) they asked about the progress of Drew Henson. Bill mentioned that he wants to get him some more game experience, and said that Dallas is considering sending Henson to NFL Europe in 2006. He then doubled back and said that it isn't definite that we are going to do that, but that we are considering doing that to get him some more game experience.

Here is a recap of what Parcells said to the Detroit media...

Question: "Where is Drew Henson at right now?"Answer: "Drew is still in a little bit of a developmental area. You know, it's tough to give a quaterback many turns during the season. You know, he was gone from football for quite a while. I think he's improved, he spent a lot of the time in the offseason here working with us. And I don't know what will happen as we move forward here, but I got to get him some playing experience here shortly. And so I think possibly Europe would be a consideration, I'm not saying we're gonna do that, I'm just listing that as a possibility here as we go forward. But I think he needs to play in some games and more than you're able to get in preseason, you know you can't get that much."

Dallas Cowboy Keyshawn Johnson wants to rework his deal

On dallascowboys.com, they were talkin about Keyshawn probably wanting to rework his deal at the end of the year.

Parcells may be looking to extend his deal with Dallas Cowboys

On Cold Pizza thgis morning: Parcells may be looking to extend his deal with the Cowboys. They said that he doen't like to enter into his last year with contracts so look for there to be an extension for Parcells in the coming weeks! That would be great!

Dallas Cowboy Marco Rivera said he almost became a Detroit Lion

Does Size Matter?
Steve Lansdale - Scout.com
November 18, 2005 at 5:17pm ET

TIDBIT: Ironically, Rivera said he almost became a Lion in the offseason. As a free agent, he considered Dallas and Detroit before signing with the Cowboys.

"I know (Detroit) Coach (Steve) Mariucci, and I respect him a lot," Rivera said. "And I know their G.M., Matt Millen. We're both 'Penn Staters.'

"To me, it came down to a chance to be coached by Bill Parcells. I grew up in New York, with his Giants teams. I got a chance to play for (Penn State) Coach (Joe) Paterno, and he's a great coach. I got to play for (former Green Bay) Coach (Mike) Holmgren, and he's a great coach. Now I have another chance to play for another great coach."

Rumor Mill: Ex-Dallas Cowboy K Billy Cundiff may be back for T-Day

Per the Ranch Report, Cundiff had a very impressive workout today. Mickey said that the Cowboys were pleased with Cundiff's health and that he kicked FG's well and that he also kicked off well, which has been an issue for him in the past as well as a major concern with Suisham. Mickey spoke to Jerry about it and he said it's a possibility that they may add resign Cundiff for the Thanksgiving game. Mickey thinks with Cundiff's impressive workout that they will sign him after the Detroit game.

WR Patrick Crayton may be back for Thanksgiving game

WR Patrick Crayton (ankle) could be close to returning to practice.Crayton may be back in time for Dallas' Thanksgiving game against Denver. Once he returns, WR Peerless Price's role in the offense will likely go down.

Dallas Cowboy CB Anthony Henry will play Sunday

Coach Bill Parcells said CB Anthony Henry (groin) will play on Sunday. Our best cornerback may cover Roy Williams is he's 100%.

Dallas Cowboy S Keith Davis wearing cast; not on injury report

Thu, 17 Nov 2005 18:58:17 -0800
Todd Archer, of the Dallas Morning News, reports:

Dallas Cowboys S Keith Davis (hand) has been fitted with a small cast on his left hand to protect a ligament injury, but he is not on the team's weekly injury report.

Novacek picks the Dallas Cowboys over the Detroit Lions

Novacek picks the Boys
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3690072...c_spt_novacek05

Lions (4-5) at Cowboys (6-3)

The Cowboys earned that Monday night victory over the Eagles after what happened to them against the Redskins earlier in the season – one last-minute win deserves another, right? Dallas didn’t have much of a running game or running defense against Philadelphia, but they will have better success against Detroit. Joey Harrington is playing better, but the Lions have trouble with consistency. And the Cowboys will put a lot of pressure on him. Pick: Cowboys.

Dallas Cowboy Rookie class paying off for Coach Bill Parcells

Rookie class paying off for Parcells
Cowboys Story Tools: Print Email Mike Tanier
FootballOutsiders.com
Posted: 3 minutes ago msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5094910

It takes five or six years to truly evaluate a draft class. Judging a team's rookie crop after just over half a season is usually a fool's errand.But sometimes you know. Sometimes, late November arrives, and three rookies are starting, with others playing major roles. Even undrafted free agents are pitching in. And the top pick is drawing comparisons to a Hall of Famer.The Cowboys rookie class of 2005 is shaping up to be a great one, the kind around which Super Bowl teams are built. Maybe that's why Bill Parcells hasn't been shy about playing so many of his youngsters. Or why a coach who throws around compliments like 100-pound sacks of flour is suddenly willing to compare raw recruits to living legends.

Parcells wants Dallas Cowboys focused on Lions, not playoffs

Parcells wants Dallas Cowboys focused on Lions, not playoffs
11/17/2005 8:28 PM
By JAIME ARON
AP Sports Writer

TIDBIT: IRVING, Texas (AP) - When the Dallas Cowboys returned to team headquarters this week, still giddy from a thrilling victory in Philadelphia, coach Bill Parcells had something special waiting for them.

Mousetraps. Everywhere.

Dangling from shoelaces tied to ceiling vents, traps hung inside their main entryway, in their locker room, in the walkway to their lunch room and perhaps elsewhere, too.

Parcells was sending two messages at once. He was reminding them ``not to eat the cheese,'' his euphemism for ignoring the hype that comes from winning four out of five games, and warning them that overconfidence will get them ``trapped'' by the Detroit Lions on Sunday.

``It's cute, it's funny,'' running back Julius Jones said. ``It's a reminder for us to stay focused. We've still got a lot of things to accomplish.''

Playoff Race: Our Dallas Cowboys are the No. 4 NFC seed

If the playoff started this weekend:

1) Denver is the No. 2 AFC seed based on a better conference record over No. 3 seed Pittsburgh. 2) Pittsburgh is the No. 3 AFC seed and Cincinnati is the No. 5 seed based on their head-to-head record (PIT 1-0).
3) Seattle is the No. 1 NFC seed and carolina is the No. 2 seed based on their conference record.
4) Chicago is the No. 3 NFC seed and Dallas is the No. 4 seed based on their conference record.
5) Dallas is the No. 4 NFC seed and the N.Y. Giants are the No. 5 seed based on their head-to-head record (DAL 1-0)
6) The N.Y. Giants are the No. 5 NFC seed and Atlanta is the No. 6 seed based on their conference record.
7) Atlanta is the No. 6 NFC and Tampa Bay is seeded No. 7 based on their division record.

link: http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/playoffrace/bracket

Coach Bill Parcells: "LB Scott Fujita's performance was fair"

USATODAY.com
Inside Slant

TIDBIT: LB Scott Fujita's performance in place of the injured Al Singleton was described as "fair" by coach Bill Parcells. Parcells blamed Fujita for Donovan McNabb's 2-yard touchdown run late in the first half.

Coach Bill Parcells "we don't play good football, we won't have a chance"

USATODAY.com
Inside Slant

QUOTE TO NOTE: "I don't look at it as in charge because we don't have a lead, really. I mean, if (the playoffs) started today, we'd have an advantage over the team we're tied with, but it doesn't really mean much right this minute. I think things will sort itself out. I think about two weeks from now you'll see the contenders start to take shape, and you'll know exactly what you have to do. I know this: If we don't play good football, we won't have a chance to be in (the postseason), I know that." - Coach Bill Parcells on whether the first-place Cowboys are in charge of the NFC East.

ROH-Dallas Cowboy Troy Aikman on the Radio: Week 9 recap

Aikman on the Radio:
from trickblue:

Aikman on Cowboys verse Eagles game: When the Eagles settled for the FG to make it 20-7, I thought that could be a real turning point in the game since every game they (Dallas) play comes down to the end. I didn't think Dallas would score in four play, but they put the pressure back on the Eagles. Mistakes can be made under pressure and McNabb proved that. Philadelphia made the right decision to go for the FG at that point. There is no telling how many TD's Emmitt would have missed if we had as I would have been tempted to check off the called play. (on Dallas sniffing out the shovel pass play late in the Philly game)

Aikman on Redskin verse Buccaneers game: Most coaches did not want the 2 point conversion put back in the game because it was something else they could be scrutinized on. (on the Bucs/skins game)I didn't disagree with what Vermeil did but I did with Gruden because there were 57 seconds left on the clock. I didn't think it wasn't worth the risk, but I applaud him for it.I disagree with any coach going for 2 early in the game. It comes back to bite teams most of the time.53% of teams that win the coin flip in OT win the game, so it is basically 50/50. You have to rely on how your team is playing and not with the risk of losing the coin flip.We had no audible system when I played.

Aikman on T.O. situation: I find it hard to believe that TO would end up in Dallas but I'm sure it has been discussedI talked to Bledsoe (on my radio show) and he was very non-committal about TO in Dallas. It is strange to not have opinion in this matter from the QB. Where there's smoke, there is usually fire.This would be the dumbest move the Cowboys have made since I retired. (laughing)

Aikman on the Dallas RB situation: I applaud Parcells for telling Julius he has to earn his playing time. Very few coaches could get away with that in this league. Barber has earned his playing time and Julius will play when he steps it up.I would have loved to play for Parcells. You produce or you don't play. He will do anything it takes to win.

Bradie James, The underrated Dallas Cowboys linebacker

Bradie James, The underrated Cowboys linebacker had a great game Monday night against the Eagles. James flew around the field, totaling 12 tackles and a key sack. But his greatest contribution came as a blocker. When Roy Williams picked off Donovan McNabb with under three minutes to go in the game, the safety needed some help en route to the end zone. It was James who thumped potential tackler McNabb, and gave Williams room to run, giving the Cowboys their stunning win. James has been great against the run all year long. Look for another big game against the Lions' lowly running attack this weekend.

link http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5091932

Dallas Cowboys wearing the throwback jerseys and white helmets on Sunday

According to DallasCowboy.com today. We now wearing them 3 times this year?

RECAP: Chris Mortenson with GaC on ESPN 103-Dallas

Originally posted by trickblue from a sports forum:

Mortensen:
1) I am not counting out the iggles. McMahon was the understated steal of FA.
2) I rate the QB's in the NFC East in the order of (a) Bledsoe, (b) Brunell, (c) Manning and (d) McMahon.
3) In the NFC East (a) Cowboys, (b) Giants and Redskins c) Eagles. They are all very close.
4) Knowing what I do now, I would have taken Matt Jones over Marcus Spears at #20, not that Spears was a bad pick.
5) It is usually a slow transition into the NFL for WR. Jones is already leading the league with the most receptions of a rookie. He supposedly was going to have the hardest transition. He is a difference maker.
6) The NFL wants to give New Orleans salary cap breaks. I don't see the other owners going for that. The Saints situation is unique, but that is not the answer.
If the Cowboys play the Colts in the SB, I make the line at 10.5.

How far did the Dallas Cowboys defense drop after the Philadelphia Eagle game?

TIDBIT: We are #6 now. We only gave up 359 yards which is 68 yards more than our normal 291 yards.

Rumor Mill: Jerry Jones all but sounded like the door is open here in big D for T.O.

From the Norm Hitzges Show
Sports radio 1310, The Ticket

Most of the morning he has been talking about TO coming to Dallas, according to him, Jerry Jones was on earlier with the musers, and according to Norm, Jerry all but sounded like the door is open here in big D for TO. Norm has stated that he has been hearing from all his sources that Dallas is at the top of the list as far as a likely next place for TO. Norm brought up an interesting thoughtwho would TO replace Glenn or Key, Norm thinks it has to be Terry, and that Price wouldnt fit in here anymore.

Rumor Mill: Dallas Cowboys are the top runners to get Terrell Owens

Report from Adam Schefter on the NFL network:

Adam Schefter was at the NFL owners meeting in Kansas city today and he said word is that the Dallas Cowboys are the top runners to get Terrell Owens from what he has heard. Can you image Terrell running to the star to celebrate for the cowboys?

Patrick Crayton has been upgrade to doubtful for week 11

Patrick Crayton was upgraded to doubtful with an ankle injury for week 11. It sounds like he's getting closer to playing. He'll probably assume the third receiver role once he's healthy.

Coach Bill Parcells wants to avoid the trap game against the Detriot Lions

Parcells wants to avoid trap
04:23 PM CST on Wednesday, November 16, 2005
By MATT MOSLEY / DallasNews.com

TIDBITS: Parcells is trying to make sure his team doesn’t look past a Lions team that is 4-5 heading into Sunday’s game at Texas Stadium. In fact, he threatened to cut Wednesday’s news conference short unless people wanted to talk about Detroit.

“I think their team is better than it was last year,” Parcells said. “We have a short time to get ready. I brought the players in a little later today to try to get the coaches more of a chance to get up to speed. I am going to keep them here until about 7 p.m., so it will be long day.”

Parcells indicated that he was too easy on his players during the recent bye week and wouldn’t make that mistake again. The Cowboys' defense allowed a season-high 183 rushing yards against one of the worst rushing teams in the league Monday.

Dallas Cowboy RB Julius Jones is expecetd to regain his starting job Sunday against the Detriot Lions

Julius Jones to start on Sunday if he practices well. Coach Bill Parcells said this in his Wednesday conference. He said he told Julius Jones two days before the Philadelphia Eagle game that he would not start and that he would bring him in soon after the start of the game.

Dallas Cowboy QB Drew Bledsoe has that rare combination of arm strength and touch

Good comments on Bledsoe from Flacowpoke from a sports forum:

Bledsoe has put up a 90 or better in passer rating in 7 out of 9 games. Brady in 5 of 9. Brady is the QB on the reigning SB Champ, Bledsoe on a team that went 6-10. I think Bledsoe is not that far off from Brady. Bledsoe's passer rating is higher, ypa is higher, comp % is higher. What more do people want or expect from Bledsoe? he has stood in the pocket, gotten crushed holding the ball till the last second, and people still want to diss him. Look at Favre and all his screw ups. Mcnabb and all his. Brady has had some doozies too. But Bledsoe is playing at a REALLY high level. His 17 of 24 the other night included misses on a long ball that Glenn should have gotten to, a pass right through Witten's hands. He had the one other pass that could have been picked and missed two wide open guys but was pressured on both of them and couldn't step up to get anything on the ball.

Three Dallas Cowboys lead Pro Bowl voting

3 Cowboys lead Pro Bowl voting
By MAC ENGELSTAR-TELEGRAM STAFF WRITER

Quarterback Drew Bledsoe, guard Larry Allen and safety Roy Williams lead their respective positions as early figures from NFL Pro Bowl fan balloting are released.

Jerry Jones lastest comments on T.O.

Jerry Jones was asked whether or not he'd be wiling to take a gamble on TO after he disrespected the star as a 49ers. His response was "If he's wearing the star, I don't care if he sleeps on the star." He also admitted to trying to work out a trade with San Francisco for T.O. two years ago and would contact the Eagles over the same thing.

Our 2005 Dallas Cowboys are getting it done compared to last year's team

The Cowboys have now won as many games as all of last year, with 7 games left to play! In his last 7 games last year Drew Bledsoe won 6 games.

The Dallas Cowboys put the rest of the NFC on NOTICE

Jean-Jacques Taylor: Cowboys make a statement
06:47 PM CST on Tuesday, November 15, 2005

TIDBIT: Every team goes through it. At some point, it has to beat the neighborhood bully to legitimize itself as a contender in the division or the conference. In 1966, Tom Landry’s Cowboys ended a seven-game losing streak to Jim Brown and the Cleveland Browns with a 26-14 win in November. Dallas finished 10-3-1 – the franchise’s first winning season – and advanced to the NFL Championship game, losing to Green Bay. The Cowboys did not have another losing season until 1986. In 1991, Jimmy Johnson’s Cowboys ended an eight-game losing streak to Reggie White, Randall Cunningham and the Philadelphia Eagles on a rainy night at Veterans Stadium. Backup quarterback Steve Beuerlein and punt returner Kelvin Martin propelled Dallas to a 25-13 win. Dallas finished 11-5 and made the playoffs for the first time since 1985. The next year, the Cowboys won the first of three Super Bowls in a four-year period.

Dallas took a similar step Monday night with its shocking, 21-20 come-from-behind win over Philadelphia. The Cowboys swept the Eagles for the first time since 1998 and proved their 23-point win over the Eagles and Donovan McNabb last month was no fluke. Now, they believe.

Nothing lucky about the Dallas Cowboy's win over the Philadelphia Eagles

Frank Luksa: Nothing lucky about this outcome
07:32 PM CST on Tuesday, November 15, 2005

TIDBIT: After watching what the Cowboys did to Philadelphia on Monday night, I am convinced of something I used to not believe about football. And that is, there is no such thing as lucky winner. Darrell Royal didn’t believe it, either. Royal won three national championships at the University of Texas, so he’s in good company. I once won an Also Entered ribbon in a two-man writing contest. If you won’t take my word for it, consider Royal’s. “You’ve got to be in position for luck to happen,’’ he said. “Luck doesn’t go around looking for a stumblebum.’’

Most reviewers labeled the Cowboys’ frenetic rally that shocked the Eagles, 21-20, as bordering on a fluke. Even coach Bill Parcells said, “I think we were lucky to win.’’ I don’t buy that mindset anymore. I’ll tell you why, which you knew I would or there’s no point in the mention. Start with this fact. The Cowboys never stopped trying to win when there wasn’t much reason to resist what seemed a sound spank by the Eagles. Behind 17-7, Philly at the Dallas 9-yard line with a first down, less than 10 minutes to left, game apparently lost if the Eagles score again … why bother to make a late show of grit?

Dallas Cowboy WR Terry Glenn perhaps catches the biggest offensive TD of the season

Terry Glenn caught two passes for 31 yards, including a 20-yard touchdown. The score was perhaps the bigges offensive touchdown of the Cowboys season, setting up their improbable comeback victory. Glenn only nine catches in his last three games. He should have a big game against a depleted Lions team next week.

Jerry Jones said it all, "This is one we slipped out of here with"

Nov 15, 4:27 PM EST
Fortunate Cowboys Tied for NFC East Lead
By STEPHEN HAWKINS AP Sports Writer

TIDBIT: "This is one we slipped out of here with," owner Jerry Jones said. "It makes up for Washington and Seattle. Our guys didn't quit. It was huge."

Quick Hits: Dallas Cowboy facts going into week 10

Here are some quick facts about the Cowboys: (Some comments included from Rotoworld.com)

1) The Cowboys are now 3-1 verse the West Coast Offense. Hopefully we will be 4-1 after we face Detriot this weekend.

2) Keyshawn Johnson caught five passes for 56 yards in week ten. His workmanlike season continues. Johnson has at least four catches in five straight games, but isn't on pace for a 1,000-yard season.

3) Terry Glenn caught two passes for 31 yards, including a 20-yard touchdown.The score was perhaps the bigges offensive touchdown of the Cowboys season, setting up their improbable comeback victory.

4) Peerless Price caught a 58-yard pass in week ten.It was his only catch of the night. He only has four catches all season.

5) Julius Jones rushed eight times for 16 yards in week ten.Jones didn't start, but played most of the second and third quarters. He just didn't play very well and gave way to Marion Barber on third downs and the fourth quarter. It looks like Bill Parcells will go committee for now.

6) Marion Barber rushed 13 times for 46 yards and a touchdown in week ten. He caught three passes for zero yards.The numbers weren't great, but they were far better than Julius Jones. Barber was the one in the game late in the fourth quarter, and fumbled, but the Cowboys recovered. This situation looks likely to cause headaches for Barber and Jones owners, as Bill Parcells toys with a committee approach.

7) Drew Bledsoe completed 17-of-24 passes for 196 yards, one touchdown, and one interception in week ten.For most of the game, Bledsoe looked like Bad Drew from his Bills days while under constant pressure from the Eagles defense. But a late TD pass to Terry Glenn sparked a 14-point outburst by the Cowboys in the final four minues. Bledsoe has a great matchup against the Lions next week.

Fumble by Dallas Cowboy RB Marion Barber III late in the game may cost him his starting job

Marion Barber III fumble late in the fourth quarter game will cost him playing time? He was FORTUNATE to recover it. Therefore I suspect Julius Jones will start and get the majority of the carries Sunday.

Our Dallas Cowboys will have no "pass" into the playoffs

Good comments made by pansophy from a sport forum:

After the Lions game, things could get very tough:

12 Thu, Nov 24 Denver Tickets CBS 4:15 PM 1
13 Sun, Dec 4 at NY Giants Tickets FOX 1:00 PM
14 Sun, Dec 11 Kansas City Tickets CBS 4:15 PM
15 Sun, Dec 18 at Washington Tickets FOX 1:00 PM
16 Sat, Dec 24 at Carolina Tickets FOX 1:00 PM
17 Sun, Jan 1 St. Louis Tickets ESPN 8:30 PM

We play 3 teams currently considered top 10 teams, Denver being #2 and we play 5 of these 6 games are against teams in the top 16. Can we go 4-2 during this stretch? If we can, then we will be awfully dangerous in the playoffs.

Our Dallas Cowboys officially ended the Philadephia Eagles four-year run

Mike & Mike: Eagle "run" officially over

Golic & Greenie discussed the Eagle's game all morning today. They identified 5 outcomes of the game, one of which being the Eagle's competitive run as division top dogs was officially over. The Beagles have been brought back to the middle of the pack, and they have numerous holes. They need the following:

1) Need a running game. Westbrook is a top quality third-down back at best.

2) Need a go-to WR to replace Owens. Reggie Brown is going to be okay, but he is not the stud they need at the top of the rotation.

3) They need front seven help on defense; especially to operate that Jim Johnson blitz. Trotter is playing well, but face it...Adams was cut as a special teams guy from Dallas and is not exactly Fugita or DeMarcus Ware at OLB. They miss Corey Simon, so need to draft a stud in the middle.
4) OL underperforming; they need a couple of guys there. Somebody to replace Hank Fraley if he does not come back from the severe shoulder injury.
Bottom line is the Eagirls are in decline. They have several holes that will probably take 2-3 drafts to fill. Dallas with their once-in-a-lifetime draft from last April is now positioned to compete for the division crown for the next 4-5 years. Gibbs and Coughlin are both superior coaches, so expect the division to become the premier division in the NFL. Dallas might not win it every year, but one thing is certain--the days of Eagle domination are officially over.
4)

Don Parcells memory lives on as Dallas Cowboys' No. 31 made the game's biggest play

Todd Archer: 31 evokes number of emotions

Earlier Monday, Parcells drove to Short Hills, N.J., for his brother's funeral. Don Parcells was 62. He died last Wednesday after a fight with brain cancer he had won one time before. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War and was awarded the Purple Heart. He attended West Point and played running back and defensive back.

He wore No. 31. Maybe Parcells flashed back to his Oradell, N.J., neighborhood and the times he played sports with his brothers, Don and Doug. On Monday, the Cowboys' No. 31 made the game's biggest play, if not the season's biggest play. Williams intercepted a McNabb pass and ran 46 yards for the touchdown with 2:43 remaining, finishing an improbable comeback for the Cowboys, a 21-20 win against the Eagles. "Maybe that was his brother in me," Williams said, "telling Coach Parcells that everything was OK."

Dallas Cowboys now have 39 Monday Night Football wins

Dallas just passed the Miami Dolphins for most wins on MNF with 39.

Dallas Cowboy QB Drew Bledsoe is still having a remarkable season

Drew Bledsoe still leads the NFC with a 97.4 passer rating after 9 games. His closes competition is Marc Bulger of the St. Louis Rams with a 90.7 passer rating after 7 games.

Bledsoe is forth overall in the NFL.

Interesting facts about the Dallas Cowboys verse Philadelphia Eagles game

Good facts posted by Deepbleu from sports forum:

• The Cowboys came back to beat the Eagles 21-20 on Monday night after trailing 20-7 with less than four minutes to play. Since 2003 there have been only two other games in which a team won after trailing by at least 13 points with less than four minutes to play. Both of those games were also on Monday Night Football: The Redskins over the Cowboys earlier this season and the Colts over the Titans on Oct. 6, 2003.The Eagles had won their last 36 regular-season games in which they had a 10-point lead, the longest current streak in the NFL entering the day.

• Bill Parcells has won two other games in his career when trailing by at least 13 points in the fourth quarter, in 1984 for the Giants against the Chiefs (down 13) and 1996 for the Patriots against the Giants (19 behind).

• David Akers' 60-yard field-goal attempt fell short as time expired. Since Tom Dempsey's NFL-record 63-yard field goal won a game for the Saints on Nov. 8, 1970, NFL kickers are 0-for-18 when attempting to tie or win a game with a field goal of 60-plus yards in the fourth quarter or in overtime.

Dallas Cowboy Roy Williams, "Big Man on the Block" on MNF

Williams redeems himself in Philly
By MAC ENGEL
STAR-TELEGRAM STAFF WRITER
Posted on Tue, Nov. 15, 2005

TIDBIT: PHILADELPHIA -- It wasn't long ago Roy Williams the All-Pro became Roy Williams the four-letter word around the Metroplex after a certain performance during a certain Monday Night Football game.

Remember? Remember the talk that had Williams the safety becoming Williams the linebacker? Remember the knock on Williams that all he wants to do is "blow people up," and he couldn't cover receivers.

The talk stemmed mostly from Williams being burned not once, but twice against the Washington Redskins on Sept. 19 in late and rather humiliating fashion.

But it was the same Williams who is now a Metroplex Monday Night Football icon, and he made himself into one in the Cowboys' final appearance on ABC's Monday Night Football as the Cowboys bewildered the Eagles 21-20.

Powerful words from Coach Bill Parcells' post-game PC

Just shown live on ESPN ...Said that the message he got from his brother's funeral was "don't have a troubled heart. And I don't. Because I've got those guys in there."

2005 Dallas Cowboys still tracking with 1996 New England Patriots

Cowboys still tracking with 1996 New England Patriots. Some say history can repeat itself.

Link http://www.jt-sw.com/football/pro/results.nsf/Teams/1996-ne

GO COWBOYS!

Drew Bledsoe made some big plays tonight

Good summary of events by BledsoetoWittenfortheTD from a sports forum:

Roy Williams interception was the winning score. But as a whole the team struggled until the fourth quarter. I think tonight Bledsoe and the defense showed that GREAT teams can find ways to win games they shouldn't. This was a game that may define our entire season come late december.

When Bledsoe is pressured he is among the worse qb's in the pocket because of his statuesque nature. But when he has time he makes plays. And tonight the long bomb to price, and the glenn TD were money plays when it mattered.

You could argue this team should be 9-0 or 8-1, but I'll take the 6-3 mark and I like this teams chances the rest of the way.

Cowboy win, Cowboys win, Cowboys win!!!!

Cowboys 21, Philadelphia 20

Dallas Cowboy CB Anthony Henry is out for tonights game

Henry Out

Just reported by Ed Werder on Countdown .

This is what is at stake for the Dallas Cowboys tonight

Great Comments by Stasheroo from a sports forum:

Tonight's game is the biggest of the year for this Cowboys team so far. Don't believe it? Consider this: A win in tonight's game is nearly the equivalent of three wins.

1) If the Cowboys win, they will achieve a 6-3 record tied for best in the division and having beaten the Giants already, they would hold the tiebreaker at present

2) An Eagles loss would send them to a 4-5 sub .500 record and scrambling to salvage their season. It would be a devastating blow to the team's confidence as well, shattering any remaining aura of superiority

3) It would make them a desperate opponent for both New York and Washington the rest of the way. They still play the Redskins once and the Giants twice making those team's lives that much harder in the process.

A win tonight and the Cowboys are considered a legitimate NFC contender. Two wins against the defending NFC champs would speak volumes. It would also give the younger members of the team a confidence boost which never hurts.This is how champions are built. A team can point to a game like this and know that this is when it all came together. This is when we established ourselves. This is where we took that next big step. This is where we made our statement.

The Eagles are on the ropes.

Now the Cowboys finish it.

GO COWBOYS!

This is a must-win game for the Philadelphia Eagles against our Dallas Cowboys

PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Even before Terrell Owens took his big plays and bigger mouth home to Atlanta, the Philadelphia Eagles were a desperate team. The four-time NFC East champions and reigning conference champs enter Monday night's game against the Dallas Cowboys needing a victory to avoid falling below .500 and further out of the playoff race.

Dallas Cowboy Cornerback Cornerback Anthony Henry will be a game time decision

Dallas Morning News
11/14/05

Cornerback Anthony Henry, another injured starter, won’t have his role determined until pre-game warmups.If Henry doesn’t start, the Cowboys might use him only in situations where five or six defensive backs are used. They could also deactivate him.

Dallas Cowboy Coach Bill Parcells playing a psychological game with Julius Jones?

Dallas Morning News
Nov. 14 - 4:50 pm et

Julius Jones won't start for the Cowboys on Monday Night Football. Coach Bill Parcells hinted around this all week, saying he wanted to work Jones in slowly and split carries with Marion Barber. We also suspect Parcells is using the move as a psychological ploy to motivate Jones. Look for the Cowboys to ride whoever the hot hand is tonight, but we'd still play Jones just ahead of Barber if you have the choice.

Marion Barber will start at running back for the Cowboys

Dallas Morning News
Nov. 14 - 4:53 pm et

Marion Barber will start at running back for the Cowboys on Monday night football. Assuming Jones is healthy, we'd still be surprised to see Barber dominate the carries. But Parcells' actions tonight will speak louder than words and could indicate what the Cowboys backfield will look like moving forward.

Dallas Cowboys final appearence on ABC's Monday Night Football

Thanks to 0812 posted from a sport forum:

This will be the final appearence for Dallas on ABC's Monday Night Football since ESPN takes it over next year. The Cowboys have 38 wins on Monday night, 2nd only to Miami's 39. So a win tonight would tie Dallas for best all-time on MNF with the Dolphins. Dallas is 3rd or 4th in appearences on MNF. I have a lot of great memories form Cowboy games on MNF but the one that sticks out the most didn't involve the players on the field. It was when Dallas played the Rams in Aneheim back in 1986 and someone phoned in a death threat for Tom Landry. Landry refused to stay in the locker room however and wore a bullet proof vest on the sidelines the entire 2nd half.

Bill Parcells attends the funeral of his younger brother

DMN Mosley Blog: Tough day for Parcells

Bill Parcells is in New Jersey today attending the funeral of his younger brother, Don, who passed away last week after a long fight with brain cancer.Parcells will return to Philadelphia in time to coach his team. I've heard people say they don't know how Parcells could coach a game on the same day of his brother's funeral. But I would think Parcells probably welcomes the diversion that tonight's game will bring. I don't recall Parcells ever saying anything about his younger brother, but from everything I've heard in recent days, he was a pretty remarkable former soldier and man.

Quarterback Drew Bledsoe on pace to set new Dallas Cowboy passing records

2 MINUTE DRILL
Special addition
By CLARENCE E. HILL JR.STAR-TELEGRAM STAFF WRITER
Posted on Mon, Nov. 14, 2005

TIDBIT: Quarterback Drew Bledsoe is off to one of the best starts in club history. His 2,019 passing yards through eight games are the second-most passing yards in the first eight games of a season in Cowboys history. At this pace, Bledsoe will finish with 4,038 yards, which would be a single-season franchise record and the first 4,000-plus yard season in club history. Danny White holds the club record with 3,980 yards in 1983. Bledsoe has 13 touchdown passes and is on pace for 26, which would mark the first time a Cowboys quarterback has passed for 25-plus TDs since White's club record 29 in 1983.

A sneak peak at the Detriot Lions verse the Dallas Cowboys

KFFL reports:
Lions Mariucci not committing on starting QB
Mon, 14 Nov 2005 09:21:49 -0800

Nicholas J. Cotsonika, of the Detroit Free Press, reports Detroit Lions head coach Steve Mariucci isn't ready to name his starting quarterback for Week 11. QB Joey Harrington posted the second-best performance of his career during Week 10, hitting 22-of-32 passes for 231 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions with a passer rating of 120.7. However, the health of QB Jeff Garcia (leg) appears to be the main determining factor.

Nicholas J. Cotsonika, of the Detroit Free Press, reports Detroit Lions head coach Steve Mariucci said the team will consider having QB Jeff Garcia (leg) return to the starting lineup when he can practice without a lot of pain, feel good and feel mobile.

Can the Dallas Cowboys take control of the NFC East?

Cowboys can take control
Web Posted: 11/14/2005 12:00 AM CST
Tom OrsbornExpress-News Staff Writer

TIDBIT: The last time Dallas swept its season series with Philadelphia was in 1998. The Cowboys' 33-10 victory against the Eagles on Oct.9 was their second in the past 11 meetings. From 2000-04, the Eagles won nine of 10 against the Cowboys, including seven by more than 20 points.

TIDBIT: A victory would give Dallas a two-game lead over Philadelphia and the tiebreaker with seven games remaining, meaning the Cowboys essentially would own a three-game cushion.

Shannon Sharpe on Dallas Cowboy verse Philadephia Eagles MNF game

What about Dallas and Philly on Monday Night?
NFL.com

Half the people I talk to tell me the Eagles are not that good this year. The other half tell me they are better than we think they are. I always tell both sides the same thing: You are what your record says you are. That makes the Eagles a 4-4 team, no better, no worse.

Philadelphia is a team that can't run the ball that well, and Brian Westbrook has always been used much more as a receiver than as a runner. But on the other side of the ball, the Eagles can't stop the run very well either.

And for all of the people that say the Eagles are a better team without Terrell Owens, that's just silly. The most important aspect of a team is how well it plays on the field. I know off-the-field issues do count, but they don't affect a team in the standings as much as on-the-field performance, and T.O. was the best offensive weapon the Eagles had. He was explosive and a force to defend against.

Dallas is playing extremely well on offense. Drew Bledsoe is a good veteran to run the show at the quarterback spot. Keyshawn Johnson is having a great year on one side of the field and Terry Glenn has revived himself on the other side, combining for a great one-two punch. Throw in Marion Barber and Julius Jones at running back and Jason Witten at tight end and you have a very potent offense. On the other side, going into this week, they had the fifth-ranked defense in the league.

Add Bill Parcells to the mix and they are probably your NFC East champions. I'm picking Dallas to get the Monday night win.

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/9042021

QB Chris Simms will be a Dallas Cowboys target next year

It's about potential. Chris Simms had a pretty good day today..15/29 for 279 yards and 3 TDs.

Chris Simms certainly finished with strong preseason numbers overall. He completed 66.0% of his passes, threw four touchdowns against just one interception, had the highest yards-per-pass-attempt of any of the three Buc passers (7.51) and finished with a quarterback rating of 107.8.

TIDBIT: Various teams have inquired about Chris Simms' availability in recent months, most notably the New York Jets and Denver Broncos. But the Buccaneers didn't make him available either time. After this season, though, it could be a different story. Some team could have the chance to sign Simms to an offer sheet that will be difficult for the perpetually cap-strapped Buccaneers to match. -- NFL.com

TIDBIT: Chris Simms is a restricted free agent at the end of this season. According to Tampa Bay's website, Griese is solid as the starter and just got a new contract extention, so Simms may be available soon.

The door is now open for our Dallas Cowboys!

With the N.Y. Giants and Washington Redskin losses, the Cowboys are now in position to take control of the NFC East. Can they do it?

I say yes. It is time to make the run.

GO COWBOYS!

Washington Redskins will also lose to Tampa Bay Bucs....write it down

I think Chris Simms is due for a good game after two horrible games. Whether he continues to play well after this game..who knows.

KFFL on Every Teams Interest Level of Signing T.O.

TIDBIT: KFFL took a poll of all 32 teams this week to gauge a feel for which teams would have an interest in them. It ended up being 25 resounding nay (78 percent); four maybe (13 percent) and three yes (nine percent). However, we all know when it boils down to it many teams will have an interest in at least talking to Owens' agent Drew Rosenhaus.

NFC East

The Terrell Owens Derby (Cowboys): You can never say never but sources close to the situation state they would have a tough time seeing Owens in Dallas with the current pair of Keyshawn Johnson and Terry Glenn playing as well as they have. However, if there is a coach that could handle Owens, it would be Parcells. The team also wants to get younger at the position. In the end, can you imagine Owens and Johnson on the same sidelines? We can't either.

The Terrell Owens Derby (Giants): Not unless you want to place some odds on Coughlin putting his hands around Owens' throat when he eventually becomes an issue. Sources familiar with the team do not see it happening; but, then again, current superstar in the making, WR Plaxico Burress, did not seem like a good fit and he's working out so far. While Burress had a reputation, it was nowhere near the level of Owens. Even then, at this point the team does not need him.

The Terrell Owens Derby (Eagles): The Eagles do not want Owens back. However, what if QB Donovan McNabb could work out his issues with Owens and went to the team requesting his return? Pure speculation and highly unlikely but many could argue that if anyone could make this happen it would be McNabb.

The Terrell Owens Derby (Redskins): As long as head coach Joe Gibbs is the head coach, they will not look towards him nor have any interest in him. The truth is that Owens does not fit their offense and they view Moss as their No. 1 wideout.

N.Y.Giants will lose to Minnesota Vikings...write it down

Heard on NFL live, the giants are 1-15 in the second half of the last two years.

COMMENT TAKEN FROM ANOTHER FORUM:
Ok, I was aware of this. I realize this is a different team this year, but they have mostly the same players. They only had 4 draft picks. Burress was their main free agent acquisition. The craziest thing (and also the thing that pisses me off the most) is how they have received nothing but love from the media all over the country. I haven't heard one person mention their last 2 years of second half collapses. All I hear is "watch out for the Giants in the NFC." I'll admit they look very good, but 1 second half win in 2 years against the awful 2004 week 17 Dallas Cowboys is a disturbing trend. And if you remember Eli just threw to the guy Lance Frazier was covering the entire game. Anybody else think they might be in for another collapse?

Bergen Record...Parcells will attend brother's funeral.

Parcells will attend brothers' funeral before Week 10 gameSun, 13 Nov 2005 08:32:52 -0800Vinny DiTrani, of the Bergen Record, reports Dallas Cowboys head coach Bill Parcells will attend his brothers' funeral Monday, Nov. 14, and then coach the Week 10 game that night. His brother, Don Parcells, died at the age of 62 after a long fight with cancer.

Can the Dallas Cowboys make it a season sweep of the Philadelphia Eagles?

(Nov. 11, 2005) -- Four burning questions for Week 10:

The Eagles tend to thrive with the electricity generated by Monday Night Football in the City of Brotherly Love. But not this time. Although the game likely will be much closer than the Cowboys' lopsided Week 5 victory over Philadelphia, Dallas still looks to have the edge.

The Eagles are a troubled team, and not only because of the Terrell Owens saga, which unfortunately will be a primary storyline for the game. Donovan McNabb is healthier and moving better, but he still isn't playing at the top of his game and will likely have his share of struggles with the Cowboys pass rush.

With two weeks to prepare, Bill Parcells and his coaching staff should be able to come up with a defensive game plan that will stifle an Eagles passing game missing its best playmaker, Owens, and with no consistent balance.

The Eagles' primary mission will be to put immobile Drew Bledsoe on his back (and force him to turn the ball over) with their blitz-happy defense. However, so far the approach has not been producing much pressure, and opposing quarterbacks are making plays. It is reasonable to expect Bledsoe will have the time to make some big plays to Terry Glenn and Keyshawn Johnson with his big arm, and give the Cowboys an early lead. After that, Parcells will put the game on the shoulders of his massive offensive line, which should be able to open holes for the strong running back duo of Julius Jones and Marion Barber.

Dallas Cowboy RB Marion Barber III to get start against Eagles

The replay of the Parcell's press conference has been posted to the Cowboys website
link.http://www.dallascowboys.com/

Sounds now like Marion Barber may start, where earlier in the week Bill Parcells pretty much said it would be Julius Jones. Also sounds like Lynn Scott could be the nickel safety.