Dallas Cowboys: Incorporates New Play

Word from Dallas Cowboys OTA practices, Wade Phillips and Jason Garrett are incorporating a new play, called the "Razorback." 

The inspiration of such a title, probably from the commander-in-chief himself, Jerry Jones, but we'll give Felix Jones some credit as well.

Regardless, both attended Arkansas University, the team that widely exposed the infamous Wildcat formation under the leadership of Houston Nutt.

As mentioned in my previous article "Cowboys Should Polish Offensive Playbook and Center Around Strengths," I seriously doubted the Cowboy's use or need for this formation due to Tony Romo. 

Why?

Romo's 2007 six-year contract agreement of 67.5 million. With that kind of money in the bank, the only time Romo should be on the sideline while the offense is on the field is because he's hurt.

I'll admit I love the idea of using Jones in this formation—Darren McFadden and Felix Jones were a great duo in Arkansas.

The problem is that the Cowboys don't have McFadden, their substitute is Patrick Crayton.

Seriously, it's been six years since Crayton performed regularly as a quarterback. I doubt Crayton spent his offseason testing his throwing arm, so I'm sure he's pretty rusty and definitely won't loose sleep in the future, focusing on his accuracy after practices.

So my second reason for doubting this formation is that Patrick Crayton receiving snaps gives me chills. His tendency to drop balls is unsettling and something Garrett should consider before calling this play during a game.

If I have this much concern I'm sure Garrett and Phillips do too. So why are they incorporating the look?

Phillips explained he wants both offense and defense to work on this formation. Defensive purposes mainly, but hey why not see what your money can do for you. We know what Jones is capable of, maybe Crayton can step up as well.

Whether they use it offensively or not, the defense is likely to defend it. 

After the Miami Dolphins successfully incorporated this play into the NFL, other teams followed suit. 

Currently, more than 10 NFL teams include the play in their playbooks. Meaning players and coaches must be aware of the formations advantages and disadvantages on both sides of the ball.

The Wildcat formation has caused trouble for a few NFL defenses, when executed well by the offense.

Phillips doesn't want his defense to become another casualty, he wants his players prepared.