Countdown Confidential: Big Day For Ware?

by Sal Paolantonio, Ed Werder, Rachel Nichols

Watch Ware: Cowboys coach Wade Phillips has a high opinion of outside linebacker DeMarcus Ware's pass rush ability. Phillips has coached some of the premier pass-rushers in the league, including Reggie White, Bruce Smith and Shawne Merriman. Phillips believed Ware belonged in that category even before he posted his first two sacks of the season as the Cowboys won a statement game in Chicago.

In Phillips' 3-4 scheme, Ware is located on the open end of the formation to avoid tight ends. He seldom drops into coverage. "I'm getting to be a lot more aggressive now,'' Ware says.

With the undefeated Cowboys looking for their first 4-0 start since 1995, Ware should have an opportunity to increase his sack total against the winless Rams. As defensive tackle Marcus Spears noted, the Rams have a quick-throwing quarterback in Marc Bulger and a Pro Bowl group of receivers. What they don't have since losing four of their top six offensive linemen is enough blockers to contain Ware and the Cowboys' defensive front. The Cowboys must make the game be decided up front rather than down the field.

-- Ed Werder