Saturday, December 23, 2006

RB Jones could see less rest

By CLARENCE E. HILL JR.
STAR-TELEGRAM STAFF WRITER

Although he likes the production from Marion Barber, coach Bill Parcells said the Cowboys need more from running back Julius Jones.

Parcells said Jones should have plenty of rest from the past few weeks and it's time for him to finish strong.

Jones has a combined 34 carries in the past three games.

Attention to detail

Bill Parcells wants the Cowboys to pay attention to detail, but wants them to play loose against Philadelphia.

Considering what's at stake, namely the NFC East title, Parcells said young teams have a tendency to play tight.

He said the keys for the Cowboys are studying their opponent and knowing their assignments. That should allow them to play fast. He would rather they go all-out and get it wrong than to over-think a situation and play like a robot.

Briefly

Bill Parcells blames some of cornerback Anthony Henry's struggles of late on a swollen knee. "Hopefully things will get better as we go," Parcells said. "He looked pretty good in practice this week."

The Cowboys worked out running backs Damien Anderson and Quentin Griffin on Friday in anticipation of making some roster moves for the playoffs. Running back and quarterback top Bill Parcells' list of depth concerns. If the Cowboys do make a move, it won't come until Tuesday.

Cornerback Jacques Reeves (elbow) did not practice Friday and remains questionable for Monday's game. Although he is improving, Reeves said his elbow is still swollen. He said he won't be able to play if can't extend his arm to defend himself.


Records: Chiefs 7-7, Raiders 2-12

The line: Chiefs by 7

Why the Chiefs will win: They've won seven in a row over the Raiders, their longest streak of wins in series history. Tony Gonzalez has 21 catches and two touchdowns in his past three games against the Raiders.

Why the Raiders will win: The Chiefs, 2-5 on the road, have lost three in a row overall and have scored only 19 points the past two weeks. Warren Sapp has eight sacks this season, his most since he had 16.5 in 2000.

Fantasy watch: Chiefs star Larry Johnson has not scored a touchdown in three weeks, and isn't as prominent in the passing game lately. He has only nine receptions since posting 27 in the first seven games.

-- Danny Horne