I think it’s fair to say the Dallas Cowboys were the biggest disappointment in the entire NFL in 2008. With two games remaining in the season, Dallas was in complete control of their destiny. They then lost to Baltimore in a 33-24 final. Approaching the final game of the season at Philadelphia, it was win or go home.
Dallas was defeated 44-6 and went home. The Cowboys haven’t won a playoff game since 1996, when they beat Minnesota in a wild card game at Texas Stadium.
For Dallas fans, the past is history. Dallas’s defense was not the problem in 2008, as they were ranked eighth in total yards, fifth in passing, and 12th in rushing.
Dallas accumulated 59 sacks throughout 2008, 20 of which came directly from linebacker DeMarcus Ware. Dallas also received eight sacks apiece from Bradie James, Jay Ratliff, and Greg Ellis.
An injured Marion Barber didn’t help Dallas’s chance in pursuing the postseason; for the fourth year in a row Barber failed to eclipse the 1,000-yard mark. Dallas ranked 21st in rushing yards per game in 2008. It is clear the Cowboys need to improve up front.
Dallas does not have a starting lineman under the age of 30. It’s time for young legs, and it’s for time for them now. If Dallas wants to return to the playoff picture, they need to make changes, starting with the offensive line.
The weapons are there. Tony Romo will continue to throw touchdowns to Terrell Owens and Jason Witten. Barber will continue to bulldoze, and the Dallas defense will be all over the field as usual.
Dropping Adam Jones (I call him by his correct name) was the best thing Dallas did in a while. If they keep their issues in the locker room and play as a team, look out for Dallas come 2009.
Before you tell me that the Saints play in one of the best divisions in the NFL, I already know. The worst record in the NFC South was 8-8, which was indeed the New Orleans Saints. The division is so equally spread out it’s almost hard to comprehend. It’s a constant battle every time one of these four teams plays each other.
The Saints obviously have the edge in the offensive category. In 2008 the Saints ranked first in the NFL in points, total yards, and passing yards per game. No one in the entire league can slow Drew Brees down, as he threw for over 5,000 yards and 34 touchdowns in 2008.
Seven different Saint receivers caught 30-plus balls or more. Zero Saint receivers went over the 1,000-yard mark. Sounds like a pretty balanced passing attack.
With Deuce McAllister aging rapidly, the Saints have to turn to all-purpose Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas. If Bush can be consistent and stay healthy, the Saints will have absolutely no problem putting points on the board through the '09 season.
The big question is New Orleans' defense. In 2008 the Saints had one of the worst defenses, ranking 23rd or higher in almost every category.
The addition of John Vilma helped a little, but the Saints need help in secondary. The Saints need to sign a playmaking safety this offseason. Throughout 2008, New Orleans' three safeties combined for three interceptions, zero forced fumbles, and zero sacks. Philadelphia’s Brian Dawkins would be a great addition to the Saints' less than mediocre secondary.
If New Orleans can find a way to stop the passing game and still manage to put up like numbers on offense, you will see the Saints back competing as they did in 2006.
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