Bleacher Report - Articles by Nicole London

Dallas Cowboys: Incorporates New Play

Nicole London — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 16:17:20 -0400

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.

Looking Forward: Cowboys Led by Inspiration of New Coach

Nicole London — Fri, 29 May 2009 23:59:53 -0400

The recent accident at the Cowboys practice facility made it only fitting to place the spotlight on one of the Cowboy’s coaches injured during the tragedy: special teams coordinator Joe DeCamillis.

He’s a tough guy. A former collegiate All-American wrestler for Wyoming, his toughness is the reason Phillips requested his talent in Dallas.

A week and a half after recovering from surgery to stabilize fractured vertebrae in his neck, special team coordinator Joe DeCamillis was back on the field coaching. After signing with the Dallas Cowboys on January 12, 2009, replacing Bruce Read, Joe DeCamillis was officially a Cowboy.

DeCamillis rejoins head coach Wade Phillips after a four-year stint in Denver, where his coaching career began. He was the Bronco’s assistant special teams and defensive quality control coach, under Phillips as a defensive coordinator.

His ties to Dallas don’t stop there; he’s also the son-in-law to former Cowboys running back and assistant coach Dan Reeves, who DeCamillis also worked under during his tenure with the New York Giants.

Entering Dallas, DeCamillis brings 21 years of coaching experience, 16 of those centered on special teams. His most recent stint was with the Jacksonville Jaguars from 2006-2008.

In Jacksonville, the team’s 2007 kickoff coverage unit finished fourth in opponents’ averages starting field position, and first in 2008. The Jaguars tied the Washington Redskins with fewest opponents kickoff returns of 20 or more yards (24, to be exact) in 2008 as well.

Phillips wanted to improve the overall game of the Cowboys, concentrating on execution, drive, and dedication. DeCamillis has improved every special teams unit coached with his tough demeanor since he began coaching in 1988, back in Denver. Of his last 15 seasons coaching, one of his special teams players has returned either a punt or kick for a touchdown.

He’s shown his toughness and devotion to the team, after deciding that sitting out for six weeks was not as important as inspiring his players. Hopefully, his team will remain inspired and return the favor on opening day and beyond.

When media asked Phillips what he thought about the early return of DeCamillis, he responded, "He’s looking forward and we’re looking forward to him being out there."

Cowboy's Say Out with the Old: Time for Youth To Take Over

Nicole London — Thu, 28 May 2009 16:26:08 -0400

Out of 32 teams in the NFL, the Dallas Cowboys ranked 13th in total offense and eighth in defense for 2008. They were one win away from the playoffs, but for some reason they dismantled the team. The Cowboys decide to gain youth at the expense of experience and possibly high quality play entering the 2009 season.

The departure of veteran Greg Ellis was an expected, yet disappointing departure. After relentless complaints as an outside linebacker for Coach Wade Phillips 3-4 defense, Jerry Jones announced the release of Ellis. With a flourishing talent in Anthony Spencer and Ellis’ lack of agility due to age and previous knee injuries, Ellis possibly felt expendable. No question the Cowboys appreciate Spencer’s youth and expect him to excel.

Fortunately for the Cowboys, DeMarcus Ware is also returning for his sixth season and expected to make huge head way. Ware ended the 2008 season with an incredible 84 tackles and 20 sacks; two away from breaking Michael Strahan’s leading sack record at 22.5.

Defensively, the biggest questions lie in the secondary. The release of Anthony Henry to Detroit was an unexpected change to the secondary unlike the release of strong safety Roy Williams.

Cowboys hope the signing of Gerald Sensabaugh to a one-year deal, will help conceal many of last season‘s struggles at safety. Returning at corner back, Terrence Newman recently signed a six-year extension deal with the Cowboys. After missing five games for the 2008 season due to a lingering groin and abdomen injury, Newman ended the season with four interceptions and 37 tackles, not too impressive. He just needs to play consistent and hopefully injury free.

Orlando Scandricks expected to win the open corner position opposite Newman. After seeing him at the Cowboy’s first OTA practice, concerns of his size were numbed. After playing all 16 games last season, coaches are confident he will remain consistent.

The biggest battle is solidifying a wide receiver. The absence of Terrell Owens opens a can of worms for the Cowboys' offense.

Returning veteran Roy Williams has a lot to live up to considering his lack of play last season. I would hardly believe blaming an extra few pounds and lack of talent in Detroit on his lackluster play, but I’ll hold off from commenting too much until after preseason.

I must admit I have more faith in new comers Sam Hurd and Miles Austin, than veterans Patrick Crayton and Roy Williams. Crayton continues to drop balls season after season, while Williams can‘t manage to get open. If Williams is unable to enter the preseason, instilling confidence in quarterback Tony Romo that he’s the go to guy, Austin or Hurd can easily move into that starting receiver spot.

During the offseason Hurd easily gained 10 pounds of muscle and where he lacks speed, he makes up for it with his ability to catch balls and fight off defenders. Another competitor, Miles Austin who suffered a knee injury in 2008, had 13 receptions for 278 yards and three touchdowns. He had less than half the receptions of both Crayton and Williams, but more than half their total yards and one less touchdown than Crayton and one more than Williams.

Many believe Roy Williams has the starting receiver position in the bag, but I think it is definitely up for grabs.

Beyond that, the Cowboys offense expects to improve its running game tremendously after an unhealthy year. They are hoping Marion Barber finds that spark again and becomes as dominant as he was during the 2007 season, while vying for a starting spot against Julius Jones.

The biggest impact will come from Felix Jones. After injuring his hamstring in game six against the Arizona Cardinals, Cowboys look forward to him picking up where he left off. Not to overshadow Tashard Choice who stepped in and saved the day. Choice was definitely a breath of fresh air.

Is there room for competition at the running back spot? Not likely, unless Barber or Jones suffers from injuries.

Let us not forget Michael Irvin’s reality show, 4th and Long. Many actually expect the winner to not only make the 80-man roster, but also compete for a starting spot. I wouldn’t be surprised if the Cowboys explore the option for more competition on the offensive side of the ball choosing a receiver to win it all.

The Cowboy’s search this off-season for the fountain of youth drove away some great veterans, leaving many to question whether the Cowboys are vying for youth over a push for the Super Bowl in 2009.

The lack of experience brings an unconfirmed roster of talent. Could Jerry Jones actually be giving Coach Phillips an opportunity to rebuild? I thought Jerry would definitely eliminate Phillips after this season. I may be wrong.

If the Cowboys decide to rebuild in hopes of making a future Super Bowl, clever. If Jerry gives Phillips time, the Cowboys could honestly be a huge threat within the next year or two.

Jerry Jones' Drama Free Zone Puts Pressure on Phillips and Romo for 2009

Nicole London — Wed, 27 May 2009 03:31:20 -0400

The exit of veteran receiver Terrell Owens best illustrates the new beginning owner Jerry Jones and Coach Wade Phillips want Dallas Cowboy players and fans to buy into as they gear up for the 2009 season.

Beyond the recent collapse of the Cowboys' illegal practice facility and recent arrest of rookie fullback Asaph Schwapp from Notre Dame, the Cowboys expect a drama free season.

That's if you don't consider Micheal Irving's reality show 4th and Long drama. Seriously, when did reality television become a breeding ground for professional athletes? It reminds me of the Philadelphia Eagles' open tryouts in 1976 under the leadership of coach Dick Vermeil.

At any rate, Jerry claims to be over the melodrama from years past and ready to do what is necessary to get the correct personnel in Dallas in order to have a real chance at competing for the Super Bowl.

He’s searching for the LeBron James of football, and we all know he’s willing to pay whatever it takes, as illustrated when signing Tony Romo to a six year, 67.5 million contract in 2007.

I understand a football player can never be as dominant as a basketball player, but I’m speaking of more than just the game. His attitude on and off the court, his drive and dedication to study and master the game instead of settling as another player on the roster; an attitude most if not all the Cowboys players lack and what the team needs to be competitive.

Yes, I hear you… they were one win away from making the playoffs, but injuries plagued their chances. Dallas was just a hair away from the playoffs. Even if we made it, how many teams actually win the Super Bowl after barely making the playoffs?

Losing in the first game of the playoffs or the last does not equal a win, and the Cowboys want the whole shebang. My opinion—it boils down to consistency from go-to guys and their lack of play making abilities.

Am I the only person tired of the excuses plaguing Dallas? Can someone please take credit and stop blaming?

Did T.O honestly cause that much turmoil in Dallas? From the outside looking in I say no, but if so, why?

Because the Cowboys lack leadership.

When no one is willing to take control and direct the flow of traffic you create chaos. And sorry, but rebels will be rebels. Of course T.O. is going to cause drama if the opportunity presents itself, but the reason is a lack of leadership.

Do you think Aikman allowed anyone to lead his offense? Michael Irvin was just as cocky as, and arguably more talented than T.O. The difference maker, Troy Aikman, demanded the respect of his players through leadership.

Tony Romo can blame it on T.O., but he wasn't the only issue. The Cowboys have three bigger problems: Tony Romo‘s continual collapse under pressure, Wade Phillips, who simply has no backbone and my favorite, owner Jerry Jones, who loves the spotlight.

Romo lacks consistency. In the Cowboys final game of the season against the Philadelphia Eagles, Romo connected 21/39 times for zero touchdowns. After four consecutive offensive fumbles, two were returned for a touchdown, and the Eagles sealed a spot in the playoffs with a 44-6 victory.

Romo wasn’t the only problem in the Cowboys' offense that game—the rushing game was just as bad, and I blame that on the coaching. The Cowboys ended the game with 87 total rushing yards, and a complete offensive meltdown in the second half.

Understandably, Felix Jones was out for the year, and Marion Barber was not 100 percent, but Tashard Choice was capable of contributing. In his previous two appearances leading into the Eagles match, Choice rushed for at least 90 yards alone.

For the season ending game to end with 87 total rushing yards shared among Barber and Choice, the play calling has to improve.

If you expect your team to play consistent, your coaches must be consistent. Jason Garrett needed to make some adjustments to create offensive momentum, and it was Phillips' duty to make Garrett live up to his responsibilities. Neither acted and the offense crumbled.

As the Cowboys begin to establish new talent this offseason on both sides of the ball, consistency and leadership is the key to their success in 2009. Jones did his part by getting rid of the drama. Wade Phillips must now raise his expectations of both players and coaches by demanding consistency and establishing leadership.

Hopefully, making players focus more on execution and consistency will give them an opportunity to compete in the playoffs and possibly win it all.