Rangers General Manager Jon Daniels took the Texas Rangers where they haven’t been in a while. They dished out big money for a Kevin Millwood, a free agent pitcher. It’s something that haven’t done since the ill-fated signing of Chan Ho Park for $65 Million Dollars in 2002.
Millwood is a 31-year old veteran who rejected salary arbitration from the Cleveland Indians, and was also pursued by Boston before finally settling on Texas.
“I felt like this is a place where I'd be more comfortable,” said Millwood. “Comfort is definitely a big part of it.”
The signing is the biggest free agent signing to date for Daniels who took over for John Hart earlier this year. The deal is for about $11 million to $12 million dollars per season. “He's a front line starter,” said Daniels, “He has taken the ball in big games, pitched his butt off down the stretch for Cleveland last year, and really adds something to our club that we have sorely needed.”
Millwood is expected to lead a staff that will be totally different from one year ago, when names like Kenny Rogers, Ryan Drese, Chris Young, Chan Ho Park and Pedro Astacio made up the starting rotation. Today, all five are gone.
“Kevin can't do it by himself,” says Manager Buck Showalter. “I'm very proud of the work that's been done, to try and improve our club. It’s always an ongoing process. We're hoping we can get to the point where guys have to knock the door down in the minor leagues, as opposed to just tapping on it. We haven't been in that situation a lot, and to maintain the integrity of what we're trying to do with the organization and keep our guys, this helps.”
Agent Scott Boras says things came together in a hurry, once Millwood made up his mind. “The first decision that Kevin had to make was to understand that this place is a priority for him, and he liked Texas,” says Boras. “Tom hicks did a great job of making for him comfortable in a place in a place where he felt he had an owner that was personally involved in the desire to win.”
As for helping a younger staff, Millwood says he's ready. “Well, i've got a lot of stuff up there, I don't know if it will help or not, but I'll do my best. I think everybody would want to be in one place for their whole career, but in reality, that's not the way it is these days.”
Millwood’s signing follows last weeks deals when the Rangers acquired starter Adam Eaton, setup man Akinori Otsuka, and catching prospect Ben Killian from San Diego for pitcher Chris Young, outfielder Terrmel Sledge and Adrian Gonzalez.
Today, the starting five includes Millwood, Eaton, Vicente Padilla, Juan Dominguez, and Kameron Loe. Others in the running for a starting spot include knuckleballer R.A. Dickey, Josh Rupe, and Edison Volquez.
Unlike Chan Ho Park who had a 5-years guaranteed, Millwood essentially has a 4-year contract, and has to earn his fifth year. Either way, the Rangers hope he makes a big splash, and doesn't become a big bust.
Thursday, December 29, 2005
Wednesday, December 28, 2005
Drew Bledsoe Still Hoping For A Playoff Spot
Every time Cowboys Quarterback Drew Bledsoe throws a touchdown pass, his foundation donates 25-hundred dollars to the Salvation Army. Through week sixteen, the total is 22-touchdowns and 55-thousand dollars. Those are big numbers, but not big enough to guarantee a playoff spot.
“I’m not satisfied with what we've accomplished this year,” says Bledsoe. “I expected us to be in a better situation than we are, but at the same time, we're sitting here with a chance going into the last game of the season, so that's something. We've accomplished something.
Bledsoe was brought to Dallas with the idea of taking the Cowboys to the playoffs. Even his contract calls for bonuses, up to 1-millioin dollars for reaching the Super Bowl. To reach that, Bledsoe would have to make the playoffs and receive a bonus of $250,000. If the Cowboys win a playoff game, he would earn another $250,000. He would earn an additional $500,000 if the Cowboys make it to Super Bowl XL.
As it stands now, Dallas still has a chance of making the playoffs, but if the team fails, everyone will share the blame.
Says Wide Receiver Keyshawn Johnson, “Well its not drew, you say what could Drew have done, I mean, I don't know you say Drew like Drew was the only person that got the six losses. I mean collectively as a team, we could have all done something a little better to give us the extra win or tow that we need to win to win the game.”
Offensive Tackle Marco Rivera agrees. “I thought he had an excellent year, there were some plays you wish you could take back, and that’s on offense, that's on everybody.”
Center Al Johnson doesn’t blame any one player. “I think its just a whole team thing you know. You can't put it on one guy, I could have done more, ah, drew has helped this team tremendously.”
So far, Bledsoe's goal of taking Dallas to the playoffs has not been realized, but he is close, so close that one more win and a little bit of help will get him there. The Cowboys can make the playoffs if they win, and either Washington or Carolina loose in week seventeen
“I’m not satisfied with what we've accomplished this year,” says Bledsoe. “I expected us to be in a better situation than we are, but at the same time, we're sitting here with a chance going into the last game of the season, so that's something. We've accomplished something.
Bledsoe was brought to Dallas with the idea of taking the Cowboys to the playoffs. Even his contract calls for bonuses, up to 1-millioin dollars for reaching the Super Bowl. To reach that, Bledsoe would have to make the playoffs and receive a bonus of $250,000. If the Cowboys win a playoff game, he would earn another $250,000. He would earn an additional $500,000 if the Cowboys make it to Super Bowl XL.
As it stands now, Dallas still has a chance of making the playoffs, but if the team fails, everyone will share the blame.
Says Wide Receiver Keyshawn Johnson, “Well its not drew, you say what could Drew have done, I mean, I don't know you say Drew like Drew was the only person that got the six losses. I mean collectively as a team, we could have all done something a little better to give us the extra win or tow that we need to win to win the game.”
Offensive Tackle Marco Rivera agrees. “I thought he had an excellent year, there were some plays you wish you could take back, and that’s on offense, that's on everybody.”
Center Al Johnson doesn’t blame any one player. “I think its just a whole team thing you know. You can't put it on one guy, I could have done more, ah, drew has helped this team tremendously.”
So far, Bledsoe's goal of taking Dallas to the playoffs has not been realized, but he is close, so close that one more win and a little bit of help will get him there. The Cowboys can make the playoffs if they win, and either Washington or Carolina loose in week seventeen
Monday, December 26, 2005
Cowboys Playoff Chances
The goal of making the playoffs is still alive for the Cowboys, but at this stage, they need help.
“Look, if someone says to you, out there in Oxnard, in week seventeen, you got a chance to do something, would you take it?” asks Head Coach Bill Parcells. “It would have been a unanimous vote. Coaches and players.”
The scenario is simple. The Cowboys have to win, and one team, either Tampa Bay or Washington has to lose. If they both win, Dallas is left out, regardless of what they do Sunday night.
Linebacker Bradie James says, “No matter what the scenario is, if we don't win, we definitely don't have a chance. I think no matter what's going on, no matter, we can't let any of these things be distractions, so if we don't take care of business, we don't have a chance.”
Rookie Defensive End Marcus Spears is realistic. “We’ve got to play and control what we can control, and ah, that's pretty much it. That's all I can say about it. You definitely wish you weren't in this position,” he says.
Usually, 10-wins is the magic number but, Dallas faces the real possibility of winning ten games, and still missing out. That would be a rarity. The last time that happened was 1991. In that year, San Francisco and Philadelphia finished with 10-wins, and yet, both the 49ers and the Eagles failed to qualify for the playoffs.
The problem this year is that as many as eight teams in the NFC could finish the year with 10 wins. That means, two would not make the playoffs.
“It’s frustrating because we controlled our own destiny early,” says Cornerback Terence Newman. “Now we have to wait for other people try to help us get in, so it’s definitely frustrating.”
“We put ourselves in this situation and we have to take responsibility for that,” says Cornerback Aaron Glenn. “We need to just go out there and play a good game against St Louis.
Says Tight End Jason Witten. “I guess it can happen you know, yeah, but ha, I can't imagine that happening you know. I don't even remember the last time it was, like fifteen years or something, 1991, so yeah.”
So as it stands now, the cowboys are still alive for a playoff spot, but it may also vanish by the time they take the field Sunday Night. That is of course if both Tampa Bay and Washington win earlier in the day.
“Look, if someone says to you, out there in Oxnard, in week seventeen, you got a chance to do something, would you take it?” asks Head Coach Bill Parcells. “It would have been a unanimous vote. Coaches and players.”
The scenario is simple. The Cowboys have to win, and one team, either Tampa Bay or Washington has to lose. If they both win, Dallas is left out, regardless of what they do Sunday night.
Linebacker Bradie James says, “No matter what the scenario is, if we don't win, we definitely don't have a chance. I think no matter what's going on, no matter, we can't let any of these things be distractions, so if we don't take care of business, we don't have a chance.”
Rookie Defensive End Marcus Spears is realistic. “We’ve got to play and control what we can control, and ah, that's pretty much it. That's all I can say about it. You definitely wish you weren't in this position,” he says.
Usually, 10-wins is the magic number but, Dallas faces the real possibility of winning ten games, and still missing out. That would be a rarity. The last time that happened was 1991. In that year, San Francisco and Philadelphia finished with 10-wins, and yet, both the 49ers and the Eagles failed to qualify for the playoffs.
The problem this year is that as many as eight teams in the NFC could finish the year with 10 wins. That means, two would not make the playoffs.
“It’s frustrating because we controlled our own destiny early,” says Cornerback Terence Newman. “Now we have to wait for other people try to help us get in, so it’s definitely frustrating.”
“We put ourselves in this situation and we have to take responsibility for that,” says Cornerback Aaron Glenn. “We need to just go out there and play a good game against St Louis.
Says Tight End Jason Witten. “I guess it can happen you know, yeah, but ha, I can't imagine that happening you know. I don't even remember the last time it was, like fifteen years or something, 1991, so yeah.”
So as it stands now, the cowboys are still alive for a playoff spot, but it may also vanish by the time they take the field Sunday Night. That is of course if both Tampa Bay and Washington win earlier in the day.
Monday, November 21, 2005
The Parcells Way
The Cowboys may have a three game winning streak, and tied for the lead in the NFC East, but Bill Parcells doesn't seem overly impressed. After all, by his standards, the Cowboys still aren't the team he wants them to be.
“It’s not anything about a specific set of standards,” says Parcells. “I just want my team to be more consistent in its performance that's all.”
Winning is one thing, satisfying their head coach is another. Parcells never seems happy.
He never seems happy to whom?” asks Wide Receiver Keyshawn Johnson. “To whom, that's where you have to look. He may not seem happy to you, but that's the way he approaches things and it’s worked for him.”
“He's always been a guy that's kind of a pain in the butt after you win,” says Quarterback Drew Bledsoe. “When you lose, then he'll kind of let you know, okay, we did this well, and so on, but when your winning, he doesn't want the team to ever start to relax a little bit.”
Reaching the Parcells standard of excellence is a level of achievement that the Cowboys have not yet attained. At this point, it’s still a goal.
Says Safety Roy Williams, “I don't know, (what his standards are) you don't ever, I don't know what bills standards are, I know they're high. But you don't know, nobody talks to him about the standards.”
Rookie Marcus Spears is still learning the Parcells way. “I don't know that you can, but he knows we can play better. I think that's the point he was trying to prove.”
“Can they, well sure, of course they could,” (reach my standard) says Parcells. But its just, I'm not being trying, I'm not trying to being negative here. I wish we'd been just a little more consistent yesterday. (against the Lions)
So can this team live up to his standards? Parcells things they eventually can, but it may take a trip to the Super Bowl for him to be truly happy.
“It’s not anything about a specific set of standards,” says Parcells. “I just want my team to be more consistent in its performance that's all.”
Winning is one thing, satisfying their head coach is another. Parcells never seems happy.
He never seems happy to whom?” asks Wide Receiver Keyshawn Johnson. “To whom, that's where you have to look. He may not seem happy to you, but that's the way he approaches things and it’s worked for him.”
“He's always been a guy that's kind of a pain in the butt after you win,” says Quarterback Drew Bledsoe. “When you lose, then he'll kind of let you know, okay, we did this well, and so on, but when your winning, he doesn't want the team to ever start to relax a little bit.”
Reaching the Parcells standard of excellence is a level of achievement that the Cowboys have not yet attained. At this point, it’s still a goal.
Says Safety Roy Williams, “I don't know, (what his standards are) you don't ever, I don't know what bills standards are, I know they're high. But you don't know, nobody talks to him about the standards.”
Rookie Marcus Spears is still learning the Parcells way. “I don't know that you can, but he knows we can play better. I think that's the point he was trying to prove.”
“Can they, well sure, of course they could,” (reach my standard) says Parcells. But its just, I'm not being trying, I'm not trying to being negative here. I wish we'd been just a little more consistent yesterday. (against the Lions)
So can this team live up to his standards? Parcells things they eventually can, but it may take a trip to the Super Bowl for him to be truly happy.
Monday, October 31, 2005
Dallas Cowboys Defensive Gets Defensive
The Cowboys solid performance on defense helped put away the Cardinals, but Head Coach Bill Parcells doesn't expect his defensive to become a dominant unit anytime
“Some of the ones that can eventually be that way, aren’t mature enough to be that way,” says Parcells.
That list includes a number of players, like rookie Linebacker Demarcus Ware, whose pressure on the quarterback helped Anthony Henry get a 58-yard interception return for a touchdown.
At the midway point of the season, Dallas has 8-games down, and 8-regular season games to go and sport a 5-and-3 record.
“To me it just feels like I got done with my college season,” says Rookie Linebacker DeMarcus Ware. “Now its starting the season all back over again. I think the bye week was good since it was in the middle, so it gives the Rookies time to rest, and the veterans time to rest, and we can get ready for the second half.”
During the last four games, the Cowboys have played their best defense of the season, allowing just 39-points. Even more important, on Sunday, there was no defensive let down.
“Right now we just found a way to finish, the last game,” says Linebacker Bradie James. “That's where we've been lacking, we hadn't finished the last, what three of the four games, so this game we were able to finish, and look at the outcome.”
Says Safety Keith Davis, “Overall, I think its a pretty good first half, ah, some things to build on, some things we really need to work on, but we're looking forward to this second half man, just trying to carry the momentum from this victory into the next half.”
Rookie Defensive End Chris Canty is another one of the Rookies getting ready for the second half. “The team, you know we're 5-and-3, we're in a dog fight for the NFC East Division,” says Canty. “We're about to hit the thick of things, we have a lot of work to do, and this week and the following week, in getting ready for that Monday night game against Philly.”
The Cowboys had the number one defense in the league just two years ago. They’re number-five now, and appear to be on their way again.
“Some of the ones that can eventually be that way, aren’t mature enough to be that way,” says Parcells.
That list includes a number of players, like rookie Linebacker Demarcus Ware, whose pressure on the quarterback helped Anthony Henry get a 58-yard interception return for a touchdown.
At the midway point of the season, Dallas has 8-games down, and 8-regular season games to go and sport a 5-and-3 record.
“To me it just feels like I got done with my college season,” says Rookie Linebacker DeMarcus Ware. “Now its starting the season all back over again. I think the bye week was good since it was in the middle, so it gives the Rookies time to rest, and the veterans time to rest, and we can get ready for the second half.”
During the last four games, the Cowboys have played their best defense of the season, allowing just 39-points. Even more important, on Sunday, there was no defensive let down.
“Right now we just found a way to finish, the last game,” says Linebacker Bradie James. “That's where we've been lacking, we hadn't finished the last, what three of the four games, so this game we were able to finish, and look at the outcome.”
Says Safety Keith Davis, “Overall, I think its a pretty good first half, ah, some things to build on, some things we really need to work on, but we're looking forward to this second half man, just trying to carry the momentum from this victory into the next half.”
Rookie Defensive End Chris Canty is another one of the Rookies getting ready for the second half. “The team, you know we're 5-and-3, we're in a dog fight for the NFC East Division,” says Canty. “We're about to hit the thick of things, we have a lot of work to do, and this week and the following week, in getting ready for that Monday night game against Philly.”
The Cowboys had the number one defense in the league just two years ago. They’re number-five now, and appear to be on their way again.
Monday, October 24, 2005
Fighting A Trend
Failing to put the Seahawks away when they needed to, cost the Dallas Cowboys a precious win. Breaking that trend is a problem the players and coaches face together. They share the blame together.
“Well I don't know, maybe we're not good enough to get separation,” says Head Coach Bill Parcells. “That's such an ambiguous thing we're talking about here. I mean its competition. Sometimes the sides are pretty even, you know. Fifty percent of these games are close games in the league. I mean, that's one of the NFL's goals’ is to have some kind of parity.”
Dallas could easily have put Seattle away, but didn't. The trend is obvious. In the first three games of the season, Dallas scored 9-touchdowns after 10-trips into the red zone. In the last four, Dallas has scored only 4-touchdowns in-15-tries.
“Your not going to get Philadelphia Eagle type games every single week,” says Wide Receiver Keyshawn Johnson. “It just doesn't happen. Even the best teams in the league, don't put teams away like that.”
All three of their losses have come down to the wire. Players on defense know, who gave are establishing a history of letting games get away in the final period, know that the whole team shares the blame.
“We put a limit on it at first, but it looks like its happening every game now,” laughs Defensive Tackle Jason Ferguson. “So that number is already blown out of proportion.”
Defensive Tackle La’Roi Glover says, “We can't allow this to be something that destroys the next two or three games for us. You have got to rebound from it.”
“It’s stressful when you watch our games,” says Linebacker Bradie James. “You better have your battery and your heart monitor, because you never know what you are going to get.”
“We played well for 58-minutes,” reflects Cornerback Aaron Glenn. “The last 2-minutes we didn't play well enough. So, that's what it boils down to.”
Somebody has to take the blame when the Cowboys have a loss like they did on Sunday, and in this case, Field Goal Kicker Jose Cortez is the fall guy. He was cut, and replaced by Rookie from Bowling Green, Shaun Suisham.
Says Parcells, “There were just too many problems with Cortez. Too many erratic things.”
Suisham will be kicking for a team that is having a tough time winning close games.
“Well I don't know, maybe we're not good enough to get separation,” says Head Coach Bill Parcells. “That's such an ambiguous thing we're talking about here. I mean its competition. Sometimes the sides are pretty even, you know. Fifty percent of these games are close games in the league. I mean, that's one of the NFL's goals’ is to have some kind of parity.”
Dallas could easily have put Seattle away, but didn't. The trend is obvious. In the first three games of the season, Dallas scored 9-touchdowns after 10-trips into the red zone. In the last four, Dallas has scored only 4-touchdowns in-15-tries.
“Your not going to get Philadelphia Eagle type games every single week,” says Wide Receiver Keyshawn Johnson. “It just doesn't happen. Even the best teams in the league, don't put teams away like that.”
All three of their losses have come down to the wire. Players on defense know, who gave are establishing a history of letting games get away in the final period, know that the whole team shares the blame.
“We put a limit on it at first, but it looks like its happening every game now,” laughs Defensive Tackle Jason Ferguson. “So that number is already blown out of proportion.”
Defensive Tackle La’Roi Glover says, “We can't allow this to be something that destroys the next two or three games for us. You have got to rebound from it.”
“It’s stressful when you watch our games,” says Linebacker Bradie James. “You better have your battery and your heart monitor, because you never know what you are going to get.”
“We played well for 58-minutes,” reflects Cornerback Aaron Glenn. “The last 2-minutes we didn't play well enough. So, that's what it boils down to.”
Somebody has to take the blame when the Cowboys have a loss like they did on Sunday, and in this case, Field Goal Kicker Jose Cortez is the fall guy. He was cut, and replaced by Rookie from Bowling Green, Shaun Suisham.
Says Parcells, “There were just too many problems with Cortez. Too many erratic things.”
Suisham will be kicking for a team that is having a tough time winning close games.
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
Texas And Texas Tech Fight For Big 12 South Lead
Texas and Texas Tech are getting ready for a Big 12 showdown. Texas is ranked 2nd in the the first BCS poll of the fall, Texas Tech is 7th. They have never met as Top Ten opponents and have never met undefeated more than three games into a season, until now. Both are 6-and-0.
“Its great,” says Texas Quarterback Vince Young. “Just to see two great teams going at against each other, I mean, for the Big 12, a Big 12 South match up, both teams undefeated, so I mean, I'm just looking for us to out there and dominate the game right now.”
Cody Hodges, the Quarterback for Texas Tech says, “Whether you play college football or your fan of college football, this is a game you can get excited about. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a Tech fan, a Longhorn fan, or just anybody else in the country. I think this is a game you really want to watch, because you have two really good teams, two good offenses and two good defenses. So if you enjoy football, why wouldn't you want to watch this game.”
At the big 12 offices, it’s their job to keep up with all the stats, and in Texas Tech's case, its every point they score. They lead the nation with 53-points per game. In fact, if you listen closely, I think you can hear that Texas Tech just scored again.
“They break records more quickly than people eat lunch, so it’s what we've got this weekend,” says Texas Head Coach Mack Brown. “When you look at throwing for over 6-hundred yards last weekend, it’s just amazing. I laugh, we threw for 336-yards, we're all excited, then Vince said, yeah, but they threw for 636 yards, so that's just what you have. What they're doing in college football is unheard of.”
Of course, Texas is fourth in the nation, averaging 45-points per game, so when it comes to scoring, their no slouches either.
Texas Tech Head Coach Mike Leach says, “I think the biggest concern is their line, they’re defensive line. I think what they do best is play offensive line and defensive line. They’ve got some stars there.” He also said he doesn’t expect much man coverage from the Texas secondary.
Texas hasn't lost a conference game at home since 1999, and have won their last 13-games they have played, but to win this game, they'll have to put the breaks on a high flying offense.
ESPN will bring their college GameDay Show to Austin. Its the third time in seven years that the show will visit Austin, and will certainly help the fans get primed for this rare shootout between Texas and Texas Tech.
“Its great,” says Texas Quarterback Vince Young. “Just to see two great teams going at against each other, I mean, for the Big 12, a Big 12 South match up, both teams undefeated, so I mean, I'm just looking for us to out there and dominate the game right now.”
Cody Hodges, the Quarterback for Texas Tech says, “Whether you play college football or your fan of college football, this is a game you can get excited about. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a Tech fan, a Longhorn fan, or just anybody else in the country. I think this is a game you really want to watch, because you have two really good teams, two good offenses and two good defenses. So if you enjoy football, why wouldn't you want to watch this game.”
At the big 12 offices, it’s their job to keep up with all the stats, and in Texas Tech's case, its every point they score. They lead the nation with 53-points per game. In fact, if you listen closely, I think you can hear that Texas Tech just scored again.
“They break records more quickly than people eat lunch, so it’s what we've got this weekend,” says Texas Head Coach Mack Brown. “When you look at throwing for over 6-hundred yards last weekend, it’s just amazing. I laugh, we threw for 336-yards, we're all excited, then Vince said, yeah, but they threw for 636 yards, so that's just what you have. What they're doing in college football is unheard of.”
Of course, Texas is fourth in the nation, averaging 45-points per game, so when it comes to scoring, their no slouches either.
Texas Tech Head Coach Mike Leach says, “I think the biggest concern is their line, they’re defensive line. I think what they do best is play offensive line and defensive line. They’ve got some stars there.” He also said he doesn’t expect much man coverage from the Texas secondary.
Texas hasn't lost a conference game at home since 1999, and have won their last 13-games they have played, but to win this game, they'll have to put the breaks on a high flying offense.
ESPN will bring their college GameDay Show to Austin. Its the third time in seven years that the show will visit Austin, and will certainly help the fans get primed for this rare shootout between Texas and Texas Tech.
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
Cowboys Lose Patrick Crayton For At Least A Month
The injury to Patrick Crayton has left the Cowboys trying to figure out, what to do at his Wide Receiver position and also, how to replace him as the teams punt returner.
“Patrick was doing a very good job for us, very good job,” says Head Coach Bill Parcells. “Patrick is good in the running game, he's good in the passing game, and he's a pretty good returner. So that's a piece that's not easily replaced.”
Crayton had surgery to repair bone chips in his right ankle on Monday and will be out at least 4-weeks. That’s certainly better news then originally thought, because at first glance, Dallas thought they had lost him for the season.
Either way, the injury to Crayton should give Peerless Price, a chance to play more, but even he isn't sure that will happen.
“Like I said, I haven't heard that I am going to play,” says Price. “But as far as being disgruntled, I don't think I've been disgruntled. I just feel like I can help us win games, that's the main part, and like I stated before, I'm not saying I should play over this guy, or that guy, I just want to play with the guys.”
Playing special teams, which Wide Receiver Terrance Copper can do, is part of the equation, and may dictate how much Price will play. Plus, Parcells hasn't been totally impressed by what Price has done in practice, although he should remember him from his first 6-years in the league.
“I don't think that's fair to assess, because I really haven't him long enough under pressure, to evaluate him,” says Parcells. “Practice is one thing, but actually doing it is another thing.”
Says Keyshawn Johnson, “I probably think that on certain downs and situations, I will probably move back inside, a lot more than I have been this year, just because I know what Parcells wants.”
Before he came to Dallas, Price had never missed a game in his six year career. Since signing with the Cowboys, he's been inactive four out of the first six, but it looks like, that is about to change.
“Patrick was doing a very good job for us, very good job,” says Head Coach Bill Parcells. “Patrick is good in the running game, he's good in the passing game, and he's a pretty good returner. So that's a piece that's not easily replaced.”
Crayton had surgery to repair bone chips in his right ankle on Monday and will be out at least 4-weeks. That’s certainly better news then originally thought, because at first glance, Dallas thought they had lost him for the season.
Either way, the injury to Crayton should give Peerless Price, a chance to play more, but even he isn't sure that will happen.
“Like I said, I haven't heard that I am going to play,” says Price. “But as far as being disgruntled, I don't think I've been disgruntled. I just feel like I can help us win games, that's the main part, and like I stated before, I'm not saying I should play over this guy, or that guy, I just want to play with the guys.”
Playing special teams, which Wide Receiver Terrance Copper can do, is part of the equation, and may dictate how much Price will play. Plus, Parcells hasn't been totally impressed by what Price has done in practice, although he should remember him from his first 6-years in the league.
“I don't think that's fair to assess, because I really haven't him long enough under pressure, to evaluate him,” says Parcells. “Practice is one thing, but actually doing it is another thing.”
Says Keyshawn Johnson, “I probably think that on certain downs and situations, I will probably move back inside, a lot more than I have been this year, just because I know what Parcells wants.”
Before he came to Dallas, Price had never missed a game in his six year career. Since signing with the Cowboys, he's been inactive four out of the first six, but it looks like, that is about to change.
Monday, October 17, 2005
Cowboys Lead The NFC East
Valley Ranch, headquarters for the Dallas Cowboys, was a pleasant place to be Monday. Cornerback Terence Newman was on top the lockers, pretending to listen in on Wide Receiver Keyshawn Johnson's conversation. “Silly man,” Johnson said laughing.
Drew Bledsoe was busy signing footballs at Valley Ranch, balls that will be given to charity, but his hands weren't nearly as full as on Sunday. That's when he was busy leading the Cowboys to their fourth win of the season, a game that didn't draw many compliments from Bill Parcells.
“I'm pleased with some of the young ones, and with some of the others,” said Parcells at his Monday press briefing. “I'd just like to, I don't know kick, kick would be a term of endearment, really. It wouldn't be kick with the idea of hurting them.”
Parcells' list of concerns is long in a game, that his team was lucky to win.
Luckily, we were able to pull some of them out,” said Defensive Tackle La’Roi Glover. “That's the kind of ball game we talked about in training camp. Those are the kind of ball games we're going to be in, and who knew, sitting here now, that each and everyone of them came down to the wire.”
Said Defensive End Greg Ellis, “Both teams played hard, both teams had turnovers, gave great effort, and I think that's why you come out with a close football game like that, its the parity.”
But despite all the close games, Dallas has been winning enough of them, to move to the top of NFC East.
“Realistically, it means nothing right now,” says Wide Receiver Keyshawn Johnson. “Okay, your on top of the division, what does that mean, ‘your the front runner’ your not the front runner. You've got a long ways to go before you become the front runner.”
Where the Cowboys go from here is anyone's guess, but after six games, they have won twice as many as they have lost, and in this day of salary cap football, that is certainly a step in the right direction.
Drew Bledsoe was busy signing footballs at Valley Ranch, balls that will be given to charity, but his hands weren't nearly as full as on Sunday. That's when he was busy leading the Cowboys to their fourth win of the season, a game that didn't draw many compliments from Bill Parcells.
“I'm pleased with some of the young ones, and with some of the others,” said Parcells at his Monday press briefing. “I'd just like to, I don't know kick, kick would be a term of endearment, really. It wouldn't be kick with the idea of hurting them.”
Parcells' list of concerns is long in a game, that his team was lucky to win.
Luckily, we were able to pull some of them out,” said Defensive Tackle La’Roi Glover. “That's the kind of ball game we talked about in training camp. Those are the kind of ball games we're going to be in, and who knew, sitting here now, that each and everyone of them came down to the wire.”
Said Defensive End Greg Ellis, “Both teams played hard, both teams had turnovers, gave great effort, and I think that's why you come out with a close football game like that, its the parity.”
But despite all the close games, Dallas has been winning enough of them, to move to the top of NFC East.
“Realistically, it means nothing right now,” says Wide Receiver Keyshawn Johnson. “Okay, your on top of the division, what does that mean, ‘your the front runner’ your not the front runner. You've got a long ways to go before you become the front runner.”
Where the Cowboys go from here is anyone's guess, but after six games, they have won twice as many as they have lost, and in this day of salary cap football, that is certainly a step in the right direction.
Friday, October 14, 2005
Drew Bledsoe Hitting Mark In Dallas
Quarterback Drew Bledsoe's resurgence with the Cowboys has caught the attention of the rest of the league. Not since the days of Troy Aikman has the Dallas offense shown consistent ability to move the ball.
“I do think he still has that edge of having something to prove,” says Head Coach Bill Parcells. “He feels like it, whatever it is, I mean the guy has thrown for 40-thousand yards. I don't know what else you got to do, but he seems to have that sense.”
In his 12-years before Dallas, Bledsoe had an average quarterback rating of 76. This year, he leads the NFC with a rating of 102. Being sack free, twice in five games certainly helps, and beating the defending NFC Champions has raised the bar.
“That now becomes our standard,” says Bledsoe. “That's what we expect. Can we attain that same level of execution every week, probably not, but that certainly is the standard now that we expect ourselves to live up to.”
“I do think winning and performing is important to him,” adds Parcells. “I do think, especially now, where he is his career. It’s more precious to him now to do well. Also, I think the difference now in Drew, and when I first had him, is his preparation. He knows what to do.”
The 17-points Dallas scored against the Eagles on Sunday in week five, was the first time all year that Cowboys scored in the first period. Bledsoe has also had three games where he has been interception free, plus the protection by the offensive line was superior.
“I'll play until I'm Vinny's (Testaverde) age,” says Bledsoe. “Especially, If we get protection like we had last week. I mean, if we don't run a couple of quarterback sneaks, I didn't get touched the entire game, so that's a great feeling.”
Bledsoe has already thrown 10 touchdowns, and is certainly on pace to top 20. The last time a Cowboys quarterback reached that mark was Troy Aikman in 1992, when he had 23. The Cowboys record for touchdowns in a season is 29, set by Danny White in 1983.
“I do think he still has that edge of having something to prove,” says Head Coach Bill Parcells. “He feels like it, whatever it is, I mean the guy has thrown for 40-thousand yards. I don't know what else you got to do, but he seems to have that sense.”
In his 12-years before Dallas, Bledsoe had an average quarterback rating of 76. This year, he leads the NFC with a rating of 102. Being sack free, twice in five games certainly helps, and beating the defending NFC Champions has raised the bar.
“That now becomes our standard,” says Bledsoe. “That's what we expect. Can we attain that same level of execution every week, probably not, but that certainly is the standard now that we expect ourselves to live up to.”
“I do think winning and performing is important to him,” adds Parcells. “I do think, especially now, where he is his career. It’s more precious to him now to do well. Also, I think the difference now in Drew, and when I first had him, is his preparation. He knows what to do.”
The 17-points Dallas scored against the Eagles on Sunday in week five, was the first time all year that Cowboys scored in the first period. Bledsoe has also had three games where he has been interception free, plus the protection by the offensive line was superior.
“I'll play until I'm Vinny's (Testaverde) age,” says Bledsoe. “Especially, If we get protection like we had last week. I mean, if we don't run a couple of quarterback sneaks, I didn't get touched the entire game, so that's a great feeling.”
Bledsoe has already thrown 10 touchdowns, and is certainly on pace to top 20. The last time a Cowboys quarterback reached that mark was Troy Aikman in 1992, when he had 23. The Cowboys record for touchdowns in a season is 29, set by Danny White in 1983.
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
Julius Jones Injured Again
Julius Jones missed 8-of the first 9-games his rookie season last year, so when he limped off the field in the second quarter on Sunday against the Eagles, it was not a good sign.
Brad Sham, who called the game for KLUV, said “Julius Jones, a little gimby after,(the play) in fact, he is limping off. He is injured.”
His on air diagnosis was accurate, given that Jones is now listed as questionable for Sunday's game against NFC East rival, the New York Giants.
“He was rehabbing some today, so we'll just see where he is, says Head Coach Bill Parcells. “I mean, it’s a case of whether he can function or not. I'm not going to put anybody out there who can't function.”
If he can't, it appears rookie Tyson Thompson would get his first regular season start against the Giants. Thompson had his best day in a Cowboys uniform filling in on Sunday, finishing with 20-carries for 75-yards, all in the second half.
“I'm getting reps right now, because Julius can't practice,” says Thompson. “So right now, I'm just going to take it like that and see if Julius is able to go or not, if not, I'm going to step in.”
Also waiting to step in is Anthony Thomas who has been inactive twice this year, and as had only 9-carries all season. He and Bill Parcells have already had a talk, and he hopes Thomas was receptive.
Says Parcells, “Well, it wasn't a two way discussion, I hope so, I hope so, because I was trying to give him real good advice.”
“I mean, sometimes you get frustrated,” says Thomas. “I mean, who doesn't get frustrated. I'm a competitor. I want to go out and compete. When I don't have the opportunity, I do get a little frustrated.”
If he's healthy, Jones will always be Bill Parcells first choice. if he's not, there's never a shortage of guys who are itching to run the ball
Brad Sham, who called the game for KLUV, said “Julius Jones, a little gimby after,(the play) in fact, he is limping off. He is injured.”
His on air diagnosis was accurate, given that Jones is now listed as questionable for Sunday's game against NFC East rival, the New York Giants.
“He was rehabbing some today, so we'll just see where he is, says Head Coach Bill Parcells. “I mean, it’s a case of whether he can function or not. I'm not going to put anybody out there who can't function.”
If he can't, it appears rookie Tyson Thompson would get his first regular season start against the Giants. Thompson had his best day in a Cowboys uniform filling in on Sunday, finishing with 20-carries for 75-yards, all in the second half.
“I'm getting reps right now, because Julius can't practice,” says Thompson. “So right now, I'm just going to take it like that and see if Julius is able to go or not, if not, I'm going to step in.”
Also waiting to step in is Anthony Thomas who has been inactive twice this year, and as had only 9-carries all season. He and Bill Parcells have already had a talk, and he hopes Thomas was receptive.
Says Parcells, “Well, it wasn't a two way discussion, I hope so, I hope so, because I was trying to give him real good advice.”
“I mean, sometimes you get frustrated,” says Thomas. “I mean, who doesn't get frustrated. I'm a competitor. I want to go out and compete. When I don't have the opportunity, I do get a little frustrated.”
If he's healthy, Jones will always be Bill Parcells first choice. if he's not, there's never a shortage of guys who are itching to run the ball
Tuesday, October 11, 2005
Cowboys Real Special Teams
For the first time in a long time, Dallas has gotten all three phases of their game rolling. The Offense is scoring points, and is ranked 10th in the NFL.
The Defense is stopping their opponent, and is ranked 10th in that category as well.
Special Teams are providing field position, and is ranked 10th in kickoff return yardage and 10th in punt return yardage.
“Overall, it was pretty good on special teams,” says Head Coach Bill Parcells.
Defensive Tackle La’Roi Glover knows that the field position provided by the Special Teams has been very beneficial. “Whenever you have the ball at the 50 going in, or around the 40 going in, the percentages are in your favor then,” he says.
Unknown guys like Tight End Brett Pierce, are having a major impact. “Yeah, you gotta get yourself ready for it every time, “ he says. “Its not necessarily a natural thing to do go down there and slam your body into three guys that just standing there.”
Rookie running back Tyson Thompson has learned in a hurry, that his kickoff returns as just as important as filling in for Julius Jones.
“Going in, I know special teams were important,” he says. “Like I said, we work on that the majority of the time, we're prepared to carry out some things.”
Wide Receiver Patrick Crayton needs to learn how to run with the ball differently.
“Crayton is too careless with the ball,” says Parcells. “We're going to have to do something about that, or else I'm going to have to make a change there.”
Against the Eagles, Crayton had 7-punt returns for 84-yards, including a 25-yarder in the 1st quarter.
“I always tell the ten guys in front of me, if you can hold up just a little bit, we can make some others miss,” says Crayton. “If we get a few blocks here, a few blocks there, we got a chance to pop one all the way.”
Special teams rarely get the recognition they deserve, but that has been changing lately. As a result, the rest of the team, has been reaping the rewards.
The Defense is stopping their opponent, and is ranked 10th in that category as well.
Special Teams are providing field position, and is ranked 10th in kickoff return yardage and 10th in punt return yardage.
“Overall, it was pretty good on special teams,” says Head Coach Bill Parcells.
Defensive Tackle La’Roi Glover knows that the field position provided by the Special Teams has been very beneficial. “Whenever you have the ball at the 50 going in, or around the 40 going in, the percentages are in your favor then,” he says.
Unknown guys like Tight End Brett Pierce, are having a major impact. “Yeah, you gotta get yourself ready for it every time, “ he says. “Its not necessarily a natural thing to do go down there and slam your body into three guys that just standing there.”
Rookie running back Tyson Thompson has learned in a hurry, that his kickoff returns as just as important as filling in for Julius Jones.
“Going in, I know special teams were important,” he says. “Like I said, we work on that the majority of the time, we're prepared to carry out some things.”
Wide Receiver Patrick Crayton needs to learn how to run with the ball differently.
“Crayton is too careless with the ball,” says Parcells. “We're going to have to do something about that, or else I'm going to have to make a change there.”
Against the Eagles, Crayton had 7-punt returns for 84-yards, including a 25-yarder in the 1st quarter.
“I always tell the ten guys in front of me, if you can hold up just a little bit, we can make some others miss,” says Crayton. “If we get a few blocks here, a few blocks there, we got a chance to pop one all the way.”
Special teams rarely get the recognition they deserve, but that has been changing lately. As a result, the rest of the team, has been reaping the rewards.
Monday, October 10, 2005
Cowboys Defense Steps Up Against The Eagles
Sunday's defensive performance against the league's top ranked offense, the Philadelphia Eagles, was a day to build confidence and for the young players, gain valuable experience.
“Well I think you have to give it players and the assistant coaches,” says Head Coach Bill Parcells. “They came up with a good plan, and they executed it pretty well. But this is early on here in the race, folks, so, I don't think you need to get the hats and horns out yet.”
But it is worthy of mention, anytime a defense allows the Eagles just 129-yards total offense, the fewest yards for a Cowboys defense against any team, since 1996. The 19-yards allowed on the ground ranks fourth best in club history.
“Thing is we need to continue to feed on that confidence, and just know that we can go out there and compete, with high level teams,” says Cowboys Cornerback Aaron Glenn. “I mean it give you a lot of joy, you know to go out there and play the way we did against this Eagle team.”1
Cowboys Safety Roy Williams says, “I mean there is always something you can learn and build on, from every game. But this game, it was a good game for us, I know it built a lot of confidence in a lot of young players, and some of the veterans that are here, so I mean, it was a good game for us.”
The Cowboys changed their defense during the off season, and now after five regular season games, things are improving. But is that the real reason?
“I can't put my finger on it,” says Defensive End Greg Ellis. “Bill may be able to, but whatever it is, we need to take that approach, every game, obviously.”
Sunday’s game was also good for Dallas’ defensive ranking. The Cowboys jumped from twenty-third, to tenth overall in the league. That's a giant step for a defense that went philosophical changes, not very long ago, and a defense that never ranked higher than fifteenth last year.
“Well I think you have to give it players and the assistant coaches,” says Head Coach Bill Parcells. “They came up with a good plan, and they executed it pretty well. But this is early on here in the race, folks, so, I don't think you need to get the hats and horns out yet.”
But it is worthy of mention, anytime a defense allows the Eagles just 129-yards total offense, the fewest yards for a Cowboys defense against any team, since 1996. The 19-yards allowed on the ground ranks fourth best in club history.
“Thing is we need to continue to feed on that confidence, and just know that we can go out there and compete, with high level teams,” says Cowboys Cornerback Aaron Glenn. “I mean it give you a lot of joy, you know to go out there and play the way we did against this Eagle team.”1
Cowboys Safety Roy Williams says, “I mean there is always something you can learn and build on, from every game. But this game, it was a good game for us, I know it built a lot of confidence in a lot of young players, and some of the veterans that are here, so I mean, it was a good game for us.”
The Cowboys changed their defense during the off season, and now after five regular season games, things are improving. But is that the real reason?
“I can't put my finger on it,” says Defensive End Greg Ellis. “Bill may be able to, but whatever it is, we need to take that approach, every game, obviously.”
Sunday’s game was also good for Dallas’ defensive ranking. The Cowboys jumped from twenty-third, to tenth overall in the league. That's a giant step for a defense that went philosophical changes, not very long ago, and a defense that never ranked higher than fifteenth last year.
Friday, October 07, 2005
The Original Red River War Wasn't About Football
On the banks of the Red River, its hard to tell where Texas ends and Oklahoma begins. But if you have an expert, like Michael Dean from the Oklahoma Historical Society, it’s easy to spot.
“I would remind you we're in Oklahoma, we're about four feet from Texas,” says Dean laughing and pointing to the grass on the Texas side of the Red River. “So your on my side of the state now, George!”
Dean knows that territory has always been a big deal between Oklahoma and Texas. If it’s not a geographic dispute, its haggling over who has the best football team.
The OU-Texas game was moved to Dallas in 1912, and to the Cotton Bowl in 1929. Students and fans have enjoyed the neutral site ever since.
Says Dean, “Imagine this, thousands and thousands of Model A's, Model T's, Chevy's, Dodges, all head south out of Oklahoma, and once they got the Red River, there's a big traffic jam.”
Before we had expensive bridges and interstate highways, crossing from one state to another wasn't easy. Texas and Oklahoma had disputes involving boundaries and toll bridges. Call it the original, Red River War, a war which earned worldwide notoriety.
The dispute was over a free bridge build across the Red River on Highway 75, now the south bound lane. The fight started when the owners of a nearby toll bridge, wanted the public bridge shut down.
“There was no bridge across the Red River, you had to get across by Ferry,” says Dean. “By the early 1930's, 1929, 1930, and 1931, a private company in Denison Texas had built a bridge, a toll bridge across the Red River, between Durant Oklahoma, and Denison Texas.”
Pillars from that bridge still stand today. Dean gave us a step by step description as we discovered the Pillars, about a mile East of the Highway 75 bridge.
“I just think this is amazing, the piers are there, they're still parts of them visible,” says Dean. “The structure of the bridge, are still there in the red river, the top part of the abutment is still visible, where the bridge came across and then connected to the road on top of this bank. It’s just amazing that all of this is still here, to be as old as it is, to be constructed in the 1920's.”
To underscore the challenge, issued by the Texas owned Red River Bridge Company, Oklahoma Governor Bill Murray plowed up the entrance to the bridge on the Oklahoma side, so it couldn't be used.
On the Texas side, Barricades were in place, thanks to a court order. And, since Governor Murray said the State Boundary actually put the privately owned bridge in Oklahoma territory, there was only one thing for him to do, seize the bridge.
Governor Murray, the Oklahoma Governor from 1931-35, said, “I feel that I should uphold the power of the state.”
Donna Hunt, who was the Editor of the Herald Democrat in Denison, Texas from 1984 to 1994, said “No bullets were fired, but this is the original red river war.”
“He (the former Governor) walked out on the bridge with a gun in his hand, after the bridge was open, but nobody cared then, they had it open.”
Says Dean, “Governor Murray called out the national guard, and inspected the troops there on the Oklahoma side of the bridge, then led the troops across the bridge, brandishing a pistol in his hand. They marched across the bridge and he seized that bridge and opened it up for public traffic. And we call that the Red River Bridge War, and we like to think that was one of the first times that we beat Baja, Oklahoma, or Texas.”
These days, the game has been changed to the Red River Rivalry, instead of the Red River Shootout, but given the history between the two states, the later may be more appropriate.
“Nobody really won, I don't guess,” says Hunt. But being from Texas we like to think we did, but Oklahoma, I'm sure Governor Murray thought he did too. So, he accomplished his purpose. He got it open.”
“Sometimes, we kind of exaggerate and we say the State of Oklahoma declared war on the State of Texas, and we seized that bridge at gun point,” says Dean. “Well, that part of is true, but there was never a formal declaration of war from the Oklahoma Legislature.”
In 1961, the bridge burned down, and today two giant pillars are the only reminders of the standoff between Oklahoma and Texas, in what has become known as the Original Red River War.
“I would remind you we're in Oklahoma, we're about four feet from Texas,” says Dean laughing and pointing to the grass on the Texas side of the Red River. “So your on my side of the state now, George!”
Dean knows that territory has always been a big deal between Oklahoma and Texas. If it’s not a geographic dispute, its haggling over who has the best football team.
The OU-Texas game was moved to Dallas in 1912, and to the Cotton Bowl in 1929. Students and fans have enjoyed the neutral site ever since.
Says Dean, “Imagine this, thousands and thousands of Model A's, Model T's, Chevy's, Dodges, all head south out of Oklahoma, and once they got the Red River, there's a big traffic jam.”
Before we had expensive bridges and interstate highways, crossing from one state to another wasn't easy. Texas and Oklahoma had disputes involving boundaries and toll bridges. Call it the original, Red River War, a war which earned worldwide notoriety.
The dispute was over a free bridge build across the Red River on Highway 75, now the south bound lane. The fight started when the owners of a nearby toll bridge, wanted the public bridge shut down.
“There was no bridge across the Red River, you had to get across by Ferry,” says Dean. “By the early 1930's, 1929, 1930, and 1931, a private company in Denison Texas had built a bridge, a toll bridge across the Red River, between Durant Oklahoma, and Denison Texas.”
Pillars from that bridge still stand today. Dean gave us a step by step description as we discovered the Pillars, about a mile East of the Highway 75 bridge.
“I just think this is amazing, the piers are there, they're still parts of them visible,” says Dean. “The structure of the bridge, are still there in the red river, the top part of the abutment is still visible, where the bridge came across and then connected to the road on top of this bank. It’s just amazing that all of this is still here, to be as old as it is, to be constructed in the 1920's.”
To underscore the challenge, issued by the Texas owned Red River Bridge Company, Oklahoma Governor Bill Murray plowed up the entrance to the bridge on the Oklahoma side, so it couldn't be used.
On the Texas side, Barricades were in place, thanks to a court order. And, since Governor Murray said the State Boundary actually put the privately owned bridge in Oklahoma territory, there was only one thing for him to do, seize the bridge.
Governor Murray, the Oklahoma Governor from 1931-35, said, “I feel that I should uphold the power of the state.”
Donna Hunt, who was the Editor of the Herald Democrat in Denison, Texas from 1984 to 1994, said “No bullets were fired, but this is the original red river war.”
“He (the former Governor) walked out on the bridge with a gun in his hand, after the bridge was open, but nobody cared then, they had it open.”
Says Dean, “Governor Murray called out the national guard, and inspected the troops there on the Oklahoma side of the bridge, then led the troops across the bridge, brandishing a pistol in his hand. They marched across the bridge and he seized that bridge and opened it up for public traffic. And we call that the Red River Bridge War, and we like to think that was one of the first times that we beat Baja, Oklahoma, or Texas.”
These days, the game has been changed to the Red River Rivalry, instead of the Red River Shootout, but given the history between the two states, the later may be more appropriate.
“Nobody really won, I don't guess,” says Hunt. But being from Texas we like to think we did, but Oklahoma, I'm sure Governor Murray thought he did too. So, he accomplished his purpose. He got it open.”
“Sometimes, we kind of exaggerate and we say the State of Oklahoma declared war on the State of Texas, and we seized that bridge at gun point,” says Dean. “Well, that part of is true, but there was never a formal declaration of war from the Oklahoma Legislature.”
In 1961, the bridge burned down, and today two giant pillars are the only reminders of the standoff between Oklahoma and Texas, in what has become known as the Original Red River War.
Thursday, October 06, 2005
Cowboys Eagles Rivalry Heats Up
Sunday's game against the Eagles will give the Cowboys Defense a first hand look at the league's top rated offense, and it’s not even a balanced attack.
Under Donovan McNabb's leadership, Philadelphia is averaging 356-yards passing per game, that’s tops in the league.
“They're very, very, very diverse in what they do,” says Cowboys Head Coach Bill Parcells. “You can see now that Donovan, is really a veteran quarterback because he's very comfortable with what he's doing in pretty much all aspects of their passing game.”
McNabb knows things are clicking. “I think we all understand the system a little bit better,” he says, “and I think our chemistry is where we want it to be.”
Aaron Glenn, Cowboys Cornerback says, “If you’re in the secondary, your going to get attacked, and we know that, so I mean, its just us being able to hold our end of the bargain.”
To make matters worse, the Cowboys haven't had much success against the Eagles, only winning twice in the last 12-games. Philadelphia is been to four straight NFC Title games, and because of that, has earned the respect of the rest of the league.
“They've earned it,” says Cowboys Tight End Dan Campbell. “They've showed why they're one of the elite teams you know, they're up there at the top, and they're pretty much, hey, you want it come get it.”
Says Cowboys Quarterback Drew Bledsoe, “This is a big game for us, no question, no question its a very big game for us. “It’s a division game against a team that was representative for the NFC in the Super Bowl last year, and I think it'll be a good gauge of exactly where we stand.”
“They've been the bullies of the NFC for the last, I don't know, four years maybe, or five years,” says Cowboys Wide Receiver Keyshawn Johnson. “Even the year that I was in Tampa, we beat them, they were still the bullies. I mean it came down to playing Philadelphia, in Philadelphia, beating Philadelphia to go to the Super Bowl. We won the super bowl, and the next year, we were playing Philadelphia, in Philadelphia, opening night.”
Dallas will host the Eagles Sunday at 3:15 central time. The game is a division game, it’s a rival game, so for Dallas, it doesn't get much bigger than this. Until proven otherwise, the Eagles remain the team to beat in the NFC.
Under Donovan McNabb's leadership, Philadelphia is averaging 356-yards passing per game, that’s tops in the league.
“They're very, very, very diverse in what they do,” says Cowboys Head Coach Bill Parcells. “You can see now that Donovan, is really a veteran quarterback because he's very comfortable with what he's doing in pretty much all aspects of their passing game.”
McNabb knows things are clicking. “I think we all understand the system a little bit better,” he says, “and I think our chemistry is where we want it to be.”
Aaron Glenn, Cowboys Cornerback says, “If you’re in the secondary, your going to get attacked, and we know that, so I mean, its just us being able to hold our end of the bargain.”
To make matters worse, the Cowboys haven't had much success against the Eagles, only winning twice in the last 12-games. Philadelphia is been to four straight NFC Title games, and because of that, has earned the respect of the rest of the league.
“They've earned it,” says Cowboys Tight End Dan Campbell. “They've showed why they're one of the elite teams you know, they're up there at the top, and they're pretty much, hey, you want it come get it.”
Says Cowboys Quarterback Drew Bledsoe, “This is a big game for us, no question, no question its a very big game for us. “It’s a division game against a team that was representative for the NFC in the Super Bowl last year, and I think it'll be a good gauge of exactly where we stand.”
“They've been the bullies of the NFC for the last, I don't know, four years maybe, or five years,” says Cowboys Wide Receiver Keyshawn Johnson. “Even the year that I was in Tampa, we beat them, they were still the bullies. I mean it came down to playing Philadelphia, in Philadelphia, beating Philadelphia to go to the Super Bowl. We won the super bowl, and the next year, we were playing Philadelphia, in Philadelphia, opening night.”
Dallas will host the Eagles Sunday at 3:15 central time. The game is a division game, it’s a rival game, so for Dallas, it doesn't get much bigger than this. Until proven otherwise, the Eagles remain the team to beat in the NFC.
Tuesday, October 04, 2005
John Hart Leaves AS GM Of The Texas Rangers
John Hart's resignation as General Manager of the Texas Rangers came just two days after the season ended. For Hart, it was the third losing season in four years, and any thought that he was forced to resign, were quickly put to rest.
“I'm the owner of the team,” said Tom Hicks. “This is something that has been openly talked about on a very planned basis, and John Hart did resign. Period.
Hart didn’t respond to that question, since Hicks interrupted the question, before Hart had a chance to answer it. Later he did say, “In response to that question there, this was my decision, this was my decision, he said. “I have talked to Tom about it. People are always looking, it seems to be in a lot of ways, for more, and for me it was a personal deal. I'm ready to move into the next stage, it’s that simple. Its that simple.
The teams’ future now lies in the hands of Jon Daniels, who at 28, has become the youngest General Manager in Major League History. He says age will not be a factor.
“I've developed a mutual respect with everyone in the organization,” says Daniels. “I believe that the trust, the loyalty that's there, makes it a non issue.”
Buck Showalter, the teams field general, doesn’t see a problem working with such a young, and inexperienced general manager. “When he has an opinion, he's very confident, and I think that's something that John Hart saw in JD. If he's met John Hart's approval, then he's passed a real tough litmus test.”
As of now, Hart isn’t totally out of the Texas organization, because he will stay with the team as a senior advisor.
“It was the right time for me. I've got other personal interests and things that, I'm looking to do, that I haven't done.”
Hart wanted to leave last year but was talked into staying by owner Tom Hicks. This year, Hart gets his wish and Jon Daniels gets the challenge of his life.
“I'm the owner of the team,” said Tom Hicks. “This is something that has been openly talked about on a very planned basis, and John Hart did resign. Period.
Hart didn’t respond to that question, since Hicks interrupted the question, before Hart had a chance to answer it. Later he did say, “In response to that question there, this was my decision, this was my decision, he said. “I have talked to Tom about it. People are always looking, it seems to be in a lot of ways, for more, and for me it was a personal deal. I'm ready to move into the next stage, it’s that simple. Its that simple.
The teams’ future now lies in the hands of Jon Daniels, who at 28, has become the youngest General Manager in Major League History. He says age will not be a factor.
“I've developed a mutual respect with everyone in the organization,” says Daniels. “I believe that the trust, the loyalty that's there, makes it a non issue.”
Buck Showalter, the teams field general, doesn’t see a problem working with such a young, and inexperienced general manager. “When he has an opinion, he's very confident, and I think that's something that John Hart saw in JD. If he's met John Hart's approval, then he's passed a real tough litmus test.”
As of now, Hart isn’t totally out of the Texas organization, because he will stay with the team as a senior advisor.
“It was the right time for me. I've got other personal interests and things that, I'm looking to do, that I haven't done.”
Hart wanted to leave last year but was talked into staying by owner Tom Hicks. This year, Hart gets his wish and Jon Daniels gets the challenge of his life.
Sunday, October 02, 2005
Rangers Miss Playoffs Again
Fans arriving for the Texas Rangers last home game of the year, received schedules for next year. Seems appropriate for a team, that is once again, waiting for another season. No playoffs and no winning season. At least year, they were in the hunt for a playoff spot until the last week. There was no such excitement this year.
Lori Gunnels from Fort Worth, a devote fan of the Rangers, isn’t happy. If you were in charge, I asked, what would you do? “Fire John Hart,“ she said.
Pete Sharyock of Mansfield is a season ticket holder, and will buy season tickets again next year. “I think Hicks is too tight to do it. That's my opinion,” he said. “I think he puts more interest in his hockey team than he does for his baseball team.”
Texas certainly has the power, falling just 4-home runs short of the Major league record, but pitching is still a problem. The team era ranked 26th out of 30-teams, and once again, the playoffs are for those other teams.
Buck Showalter, the teams’ manager says, “You do dwell on it. I know I will, and its always a sense of sadness on a day like today. Its self inflicted though, its nobody else’s fault, nobody wants to hear about injuries, this and that, everybody has had injuries.”
In the third inning, Michael Young received a standing ovation as he was pulled from the game. That batting title is the first for the Rangers since Julio Franco won it in 1991.
“It means a lot,” he said. “This last month has been pretty hectic. I knew that winning the batting title would be very special to me at this point of the year. Its definitely special, it hasn't really hit me yet, but I know that its something I can carry with me for the rest of my life.”
Moments after Young got pulled, it was Mark Teixeira’s turn. He left the game, just 3-short of the Major League RBI leadership.
“I didn't change anything,” says Teixeira. “Its like I said earlier, its just getting better, ah, you know I've had three good years in the big leagues, and hopefully I'll have 20-more.”
The Kenny Rogers incident on June 29th proved to be most serious moment of the year, and it appeared to be an incident from which the entire team never recovered. Larry Rodriguez, the KDFW photographer attacked by Rogers, was finally back at work this week.
When the season ended, it was the Angels who we celebrating a 7-to-4 win, and a division title, while the Rangers watched.
Tom Hicks, the teams owner was asked if he still like what John Hart is doing as General Manager. “Yeah, I think, its not just John, its John's team, John, John Daniels, Dom Chiti, Buck, I think they're one of the best management teams in baseball, so we're lucky to have them.”
Last year, the Rangers were a team on the rise, this year they're a team in decline. What happens now in the off season will certain dictate what the Rangers are selling for 2006, how easy it will be for the fans to buy into next year.
Lori Gunnels from Fort Worth, a devote fan of the Rangers, isn’t happy. If you were in charge, I asked, what would you do? “Fire John Hart,“ she said.
Pete Sharyock of Mansfield is a season ticket holder, and will buy season tickets again next year. “I think Hicks is too tight to do it. That's my opinion,” he said. “I think he puts more interest in his hockey team than he does for his baseball team.”
Texas certainly has the power, falling just 4-home runs short of the Major league record, but pitching is still a problem. The team era ranked 26th out of 30-teams, and once again, the playoffs are for those other teams.
Buck Showalter, the teams’ manager says, “You do dwell on it. I know I will, and its always a sense of sadness on a day like today. Its self inflicted though, its nobody else’s fault, nobody wants to hear about injuries, this and that, everybody has had injuries.”
In the third inning, Michael Young received a standing ovation as he was pulled from the game. That batting title is the first for the Rangers since Julio Franco won it in 1991.
“It means a lot,” he said. “This last month has been pretty hectic. I knew that winning the batting title would be very special to me at this point of the year. Its definitely special, it hasn't really hit me yet, but I know that its something I can carry with me for the rest of my life.”
Moments after Young got pulled, it was Mark Teixeira’s turn. He left the game, just 3-short of the Major League RBI leadership.
“I didn't change anything,” says Teixeira. “Its like I said earlier, its just getting better, ah, you know I've had three good years in the big leagues, and hopefully I'll have 20-more.”
The Kenny Rogers incident on June 29th proved to be most serious moment of the year, and it appeared to be an incident from which the entire team never recovered. Larry Rodriguez, the KDFW photographer attacked by Rogers, was finally back at work this week.
When the season ended, it was the Angels who we celebrating a 7-to-4 win, and a division title, while the Rangers watched.
Tom Hicks, the teams owner was asked if he still like what John Hart is doing as General Manager. “Yeah, I think, its not just John, its John's team, John, John Daniels, Dom Chiti, Buck, I think they're one of the best management teams in baseball, so we're lucky to have them.”
Last year, the Rangers were a team on the rise, this year they're a team in decline. What happens now in the off season will certain dictate what the Rangers are selling for 2006, how easy it will be for the fans to buy into next year.
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
More Bonding Time for the Cowboys?
The Cowboys will practice at Valley Ranch three days this week, before heading to California again. They held training camp, but haven’t play in Oakland since October of 2001. The last time they played the 49ers in San Francisco was November 1997.
“That's the way it is,” says Head Coach Bill Parcells. “Our division is on the East coast, we're going to have three over there every year, so we happen to be playing the west this year, so, that's the way it is.”
Dallas will play back to back games in San Francisco on September 25th, and Oakland on October 2nd. Because of the back to back games in California, Parcells decided it was best for he and his players to stay in California all next week, and not return to Valley Ranch until after they play their second game against the Raiders.
Some of the players might call that, a good chance to go to the West Coast for more bonding time, but Parcells doesn't see it that way.
“Well, because I don't look at things like bonding,” he said laughing. “Naw, that's not on my mind, bonding, ha ha, you know, s___t. You've been watching too many shows in the afternoon.”
Parcells may not be into this “bonding thing,” instead he's just trying to pick up more preparation time for his coaches. He says he will have evaluated the tape from the 49ers game by the time he would be arriving in Dallas. But no bonding, that's not what some of the players are thinking.
“He bonds too,” says Cornerback Terence Newman. “I see him out at the Cowboys Golf Club hitting golf balls, and players come out and talk to him, don't let him tell you that, he does a little bonding.”
“I don't know,” says Tight end Dan Campbell. “I don't know about that, ah, we'll see if he wants to play cards or something like that, in the afternoons, you know, ha ha.”
Drew Bledsoe, the Cowboys Quarterback, sees it as a good thing. “Well we had a whole training camp to hang out, so we know each other pretty well,” he says. “But it will be good, it will be a chance for us to spend some time together as a team, i guess, and do some of that stuff, but the bottom line, we're going out there on a business trip.”
So whether Parcells likes it or not, there will be more bonding time for the players, and the California weather will be a nice change from the 100 degree temperatures in Texas.
“That's the way it is,” says Head Coach Bill Parcells. “Our division is on the East coast, we're going to have three over there every year, so we happen to be playing the west this year, so, that's the way it is.”
Dallas will play back to back games in San Francisco on September 25th, and Oakland on October 2nd. Because of the back to back games in California, Parcells decided it was best for he and his players to stay in California all next week, and not return to Valley Ranch until after they play their second game against the Raiders.
Some of the players might call that, a good chance to go to the West Coast for more bonding time, but Parcells doesn't see it that way.
“Well, because I don't look at things like bonding,” he said laughing. “Naw, that's not on my mind, bonding, ha ha, you know, s___t. You've been watching too many shows in the afternoon.”
Parcells may not be into this “bonding thing,” instead he's just trying to pick up more preparation time for his coaches. He says he will have evaluated the tape from the 49ers game by the time he would be arriving in Dallas. But no bonding, that's not what some of the players are thinking.
“He bonds too,” says Cornerback Terence Newman. “I see him out at the Cowboys Golf Club hitting golf balls, and players come out and talk to him, don't let him tell you that, he does a little bonding.”
“I don't know,” says Tight end Dan Campbell. “I don't know about that, ah, we'll see if he wants to play cards or something like that, in the afternoons, you know, ha ha.”
Drew Bledsoe, the Cowboys Quarterback, sees it as a good thing. “Well we had a whole training camp to hang out, so we know each other pretty well,” he says. “But it will be good, it will be a chance for us to spend some time together as a team, i guess, and do some of that stuff, but the bottom line, we're going out there on a business trip.”
So whether Parcells likes it or not, there will be more bonding time for the players, and the California weather will be a nice change from the 100 degree temperatures in Texas.
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
Cowboys Unsaddled by Redskins on Monday Night
This Cowboys Redskins game was supposed to be a night of celebration. After all, Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith and Michael Irvin were inducted into the teams Ring of Honor at halftime.
But somewhere along the way, the celebration faded, and the Cowboys defense forgot to play all sixty minutes.
Dallas was leading 13-to-0, when Mark Brunell hit Santana Moss for a 39-yard touchdown with 3:55 left in the game. It was the Redskins first touchown of the season.
“It’s my fault, I take total blame for that,” said Cowboys Safety Roy Williams. “I take total blame, because you know what I'm saying, I should have read it faster.”
But getting help from the offense to ice the win, by taking time off the clock, didn't happen either. Cowboys Assistant Head Coach Sean Payton is calling the plays these days, and he didn’t exactly look like Einstein Monday night.
In trying to protect a 6-point lead, Dallas ran seven-plays, including a holding penalty, that took just 45-seconds off the clock. That left plenty of time for the Redskins who had all the momentum in their favor.
“I was very surprised,” said Cowboys quarterback Drew Bledsoe. “I really expected out two minute offense to be more effective than that.”
But it wasn't, allowing the Redskins to come back with the same play to Moss, to give the Redskins a 14-to-13 lead.
Cowboys Head Coach Bill Parcells didn’t know what to say. “Well you got to learn to close the show, and we didn't do that, we had a fourth and fifteen, make one play, the game is over,” he said. “We had a key first down made, got a holding penalty, cut us back, and when you let a team hang around, that can happen.”
Moss, the hero on this night, was excited. “All I can say, is we fought through it, fortunately we got two big scores, to win this game.”
Renaldo Wynn, the Redskins defensive lineman, said “Hey redskins fans, its for you man, we brought it back, you guy’s always said beat Dallas, we did it. Without you, you guys, we're all in it together, the whole community man.”
As far as the rivalry is concerned, Wynn said, “We just started a new one, the new streak is alive man, its alive bro, we brought the rivalry back, to where it has always belonged, Cowboys, Redskins, what else could you ask for man,
For the Cowboys, it was devastating blow. Next up, two games on the west coast, at San Francisco and Oakland, and how this team plays in those two games will say a lot. Dallas won't be back home again until October 9th, against Philadelphia.
As for the series, it was the first for Joe Gibbs since his return as Washington’s head coach. It snapped a four game Dallas winning streak, but only the second for the Redskins in 16-years.
But somewhere along the way, the celebration faded, and the Cowboys defense forgot to play all sixty minutes.
Dallas was leading 13-to-0, when Mark Brunell hit Santana Moss for a 39-yard touchdown with 3:55 left in the game. It was the Redskins first touchown of the season.
“It’s my fault, I take total blame for that,” said Cowboys Safety Roy Williams. “I take total blame, because you know what I'm saying, I should have read it faster.”
But getting help from the offense to ice the win, by taking time off the clock, didn't happen either. Cowboys Assistant Head Coach Sean Payton is calling the plays these days, and he didn’t exactly look like Einstein Monday night.
In trying to protect a 6-point lead, Dallas ran seven-plays, including a holding penalty, that took just 45-seconds off the clock. That left plenty of time for the Redskins who had all the momentum in their favor.
“I was very surprised,” said Cowboys quarterback Drew Bledsoe. “I really expected out two minute offense to be more effective than that.”
But it wasn't, allowing the Redskins to come back with the same play to Moss, to give the Redskins a 14-to-13 lead.
Cowboys Head Coach Bill Parcells didn’t know what to say. “Well you got to learn to close the show, and we didn't do that, we had a fourth and fifteen, make one play, the game is over,” he said. “We had a key first down made, got a holding penalty, cut us back, and when you let a team hang around, that can happen.”
Moss, the hero on this night, was excited. “All I can say, is we fought through it, fortunately we got two big scores, to win this game.”
Renaldo Wynn, the Redskins defensive lineman, said “Hey redskins fans, its for you man, we brought it back, you guy’s always said beat Dallas, we did it. Without you, you guys, we're all in it together, the whole community man.”
As far as the rivalry is concerned, Wynn said, “We just started a new one, the new streak is alive man, its alive bro, we brought the rivalry back, to where it has always belonged, Cowboys, Redskins, what else could you ask for man,
For the Cowboys, it was devastating blow. Next up, two games on the west coast, at San Francisco and Oakland, and how this team plays in those two games will say a lot. Dallas won't be back home again until October 9th, against Philadelphia.
As for the series, it was the first for Joe Gibbs since his return as Washington’s head coach. It snapped a four game Dallas winning streak, but only the second for the Redskins in 16-years.
Sunday, September 18, 2005
Cowboys Redskins Rivalry
The Cowboys Redskins game is one that has always invoked the emotions of their fans.
George Allen, who became the Redskins coach in 1971, was always adding fuel to fire. Who can forget the former Coach on the sidelines, clapping his hands and yelling, “Roger Staubach and Company, Roger Staubach, Tom Landry, Tex Schramm, here we go.”
In the huddle, Allen would yell, “Just remember, 40-men together can’t lose.”
In 1972, the Redskins beat the Cowboys at RFK in the NFC Championship game. On the sidelines, NFL films captured players yelling, “Die you dogs, die,” just as Cliff Harris was being bounced off the RFK turf.
At the Thanksgiving Day game in 1974, Clint Longley emerged as the Mad Bomber.
In 1979, the Roger Staubach lead the Cowboys to an incredible 35-to-34 win. After the game, Harvey Martin tossed a funeral wreath in Washington's dressing room.
These days, the rivalry seems much calmer.
Said Joe Gibbs this week, “Its a tough one for us, we're going to have to play the game of our life down there, and certainly we'll have pretty much the whole world against us down there.”
And no wonder considering what Gibbs said during training camp this year, “don’t see any Cowboys fans here. They’re ugly.”
Joe Gibbs did apologize for his remarks, but Cowboys fans don't remember that.
Free agency does change the faces of a rivalry more frequently, but Bill Parcells says even that doesn't matter.
Says Cowboys Head Coach Bill Parcells, “I've always felt like the fans root for the jersey, I've always felt that, that a real fan will root for the jersey of the team, and not so much for, maybe they've got their favorite players, you know, another coach comes in that'll be the guy that gets the boo next.”
Quarterback Drew Bledsoe has heard about the rivalry, but Monday night, he along with a handful of free agents and rookies, will experience it first hand.
“I know its one of the oldest and most storied rivalries in the league,” he said. “I recently found out that the Cowboys have had the best of it for a while, and hopefully we can keep that going.”
Free agent Guard Marco Rivera has never played in this rival game either. “This is one of those big ones, you can tell there's some hatred between the Cowboys and Redskins fans, and ah, it’s going to be an exciting game. It’s early in the season, and we've got them Monday night at our place, so we want to shine.”
“Actually, I didn't know it was that big of rivalry,” says Cornerback Aaron Glenn. “But you know just hearing you guys, talk about it, I guess it’s a big deal.”
But those who have played in the game realize this series is different.
They don't like us, we don't like them,” says Defensive Tackle La’Roi Glover. “Its already been reporter, it’s going to be intense. Anytime you play a team in the NFC East, especially if they're the Redskins, its a little extra added value to it.”
Defensive End Greg Ellis says, “That's old fashioned football. Its going to be played that way, its going to be a real physical game, coaches know it, players know it, young guys, obviously won't realize that yet.”
Tight End Dan Campbell didn’t want to stir up any added hatred. “I'm not even answering that, I'm not getting into that whole deal, I'm just not. I'm not doing it” he said laughing. “I'm not doing it. ha ha, new season, that's it.”
Says Wide Receiver Keyshawn Johnson, “I just play football, I don't care about the Redskins, unless it’s Ohio State and Texas.”
The Cowboys have been in charge of this series for a long time, winning fourteen of the last fifteen games, but football is a cyclical game and the Cowboys hope that cycle doesn't change anytime soon.
George Allen, who became the Redskins coach in 1971, was always adding fuel to fire. Who can forget the former Coach on the sidelines, clapping his hands and yelling, “Roger Staubach and Company, Roger Staubach, Tom Landry, Tex Schramm, here we go.”
In the huddle, Allen would yell, “Just remember, 40-men together can’t lose.”
In 1972, the Redskins beat the Cowboys at RFK in the NFC Championship game. On the sidelines, NFL films captured players yelling, “Die you dogs, die,” just as Cliff Harris was being bounced off the RFK turf.
At the Thanksgiving Day game in 1974, Clint Longley emerged as the Mad Bomber.
In 1979, the Roger Staubach lead the Cowboys to an incredible 35-to-34 win. After the game, Harvey Martin tossed a funeral wreath in Washington's dressing room.
These days, the rivalry seems much calmer.
Said Joe Gibbs this week, “Its a tough one for us, we're going to have to play the game of our life down there, and certainly we'll have pretty much the whole world against us down there.”
And no wonder considering what Gibbs said during training camp this year, “don’t see any Cowboys fans here. They’re ugly.”
Joe Gibbs did apologize for his remarks, but Cowboys fans don't remember that.
Free agency does change the faces of a rivalry more frequently, but Bill Parcells says even that doesn't matter.
Says Cowboys Head Coach Bill Parcells, “I've always felt like the fans root for the jersey, I've always felt that, that a real fan will root for the jersey of the team, and not so much for, maybe they've got their favorite players, you know, another coach comes in that'll be the guy that gets the boo next.”
Quarterback Drew Bledsoe has heard about the rivalry, but Monday night, he along with a handful of free agents and rookies, will experience it first hand.
“I know its one of the oldest and most storied rivalries in the league,” he said. “I recently found out that the Cowboys have had the best of it for a while, and hopefully we can keep that going.”
Free agent Guard Marco Rivera has never played in this rival game either. “This is one of those big ones, you can tell there's some hatred between the Cowboys and Redskins fans, and ah, it’s going to be an exciting game. It’s early in the season, and we've got them Monday night at our place, so we want to shine.”
“Actually, I didn't know it was that big of rivalry,” says Cornerback Aaron Glenn. “But you know just hearing you guys, talk about it, I guess it’s a big deal.”
But those who have played in the game realize this series is different.
They don't like us, we don't like them,” says Defensive Tackle La’Roi Glover. “Its already been reporter, it’s going to be intense. Anytime you play a team in the NFC East, especially if they're the Redskins, its a little extra added value to it.”
Defensive End Greg Ellis says, “That's old fashioned football. Its going to be played that way, its going to be a real physical game, coaches know it, players know it, young guys, obviously won't realize that yet.”
Tight End Dan Campbell didn’t want to stir up any added hatred. “I'm not even answering that, I'm not getting into that whole deal, I'm just not. I'm not doing it” he said laughing. “I'm not doing it. ha ha, new season, that's it.”
Says Wide Receiver Keyshawn Johnson, “I just play football, I don't care about the Redskins, unless it’s Ohio State and Texas.”
The Cowboys have been in charge of this series for a long time, winning fourteen of the last fifteen games, but football is a cyclical game and the Cowboys hope that cycle doesn't change anytime soon.
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Drew Bledsoe Off and Running In Dallas
Drew Bledsoe's debut with the Cowboys couldn't have been much better. Dallas beat San Diego 28-to-24. He won the game by completing 18 of 24 passes for 226 yards and 3 touchdowns.
“There is nothing like game experience to go out there for the first time, in a real game, and come out with a victory,” Bledsoe said Wednesday at Valley Ranch. “I think it goes a long way for all of us.”
It wasn't a perfect day, by any means, since his offensive line allowed him to be sacked 4 times. Getting better protection may help improve Bledsoe's longevity.
“The cleaner we can keep the pocket for Drew, the better we're going to be, now that would be any quarterback, obviously,” said Bill Parcells. “But I think in Drew’s case, the more comfortable you can make him, the better he's going to be.”
Still, the five holding calls by the offensive line is a concern, but for now, Bledsoe seems to have added strength to the teams offense.
Keyshawn Johnson caught 5 passes for 65 yards and 2 touchdowns. “I don't know that drew should worry about proving anything to anybody,” he said. “I mean he has the pedigree, he knows how to play the game, your going to question him regardless, that's just the way this league is, and its the way the media operates.”
Dan Campbell, the Cowboys Tight End said, “There is a reason why he's been in the league as long as he's been in it, and been as productive as he's been. Everybody knew that he was a leader.”
“I felt like I played smart football, says Bledsoe. “And that's what I expect to do every week, will it always be that clean, probably not. but that's certainly the type of game I expect to play and I also expect to be able to hit some big plays when we have the opportunity.”
One game certainly doesn't make a season, but Bledsoe does have the Cowboys off and running. And, having the highest quarterback rating in the league after one week, only underscores his successful debut in Dallas. His rating is 143.4.
Here is complete list of Quarterback Ratings after week one:
1 Drew Bledsoe DAL 143.4
2 Tim Rattay SF 141.9
3 Carson Palmer CIN 107.5
4 Tom Brady NE 105.8
5 Byron Leftwich JAC 103.2
6 Peyton Manning IND 98.6
7 Aaron Brooks NO 97.9
8 Gus Frerotte MIA 96.4
9 Joey HarringtonDET 95.4
10 Kerry Collins OAK 94.5
11 Steve McNair TEN 91.7
12 J.P. Losman BUF 89.9
13 Marc Bulger STL 84.1
14 Brian Griese TB 78.7
15 Chad PenningtonNYJ 73.7
16 Kurt Warner ARI 73.1
17 Mark Brunell WAS 70.5
18 Donovan McNabb PHI 68.5
19 Trent Dilfer CLE 67.8
20 Trent Green KC 66.2
21 Anthony Wright BAL 65.8
22 Jake Delhomme CAR 65.5
23 Drew Brees SD 65.1
24 Kyle Boller BAL 63.9
25 Eli Manning NYG 62.2
26 Matt HasselbeckSEA 61.3
27 Michael Vick ATL 55.7
28 Brett Favre GB 53.3
29 Kyle Orton CHI 52.8
30 Jake Plummer DEN 51.
“There is nothing like game experience to go out there for the first time, in a real game, and come out with a victory,” Bledsoe said Wednesday at Valley Ranch. “I think it goes a long way for all of us.”
It wasn't a perfect day, by any means, since his offensive line allowed him to be sacked 4 times. Getting better protection may help improve Bledsoe's longevity.
“The cleaner we can keep the pocket for Drew, the better we're going to be, now that would be any quarterback, obviously,” said Bill Parcells. “But I think in Drew’s case, the more comfortable you can make him, the better he's going to be.”
Still, the five holding calls by the offensive line is a concern, but for now, Bledsoe seems to have added strength to the teams offense.
Keyshawn Johnson caught 5 passes for 65 yards and 2 touchdowns. “I don't know that drew should worry about proving anything to anybody,” he said. “I mean he has the pedigree, he knows how to play the game, your going to question him regardless, that's just the way this league is, and its the way the media operates.”
Dan Campbell, the Cowboys Tight End said, “There is a reason why he's been in the league as long as he's been in it, and been as productive as he's been. Everybody knew that he was a leader.”
“I felt like I played smart football, says Bledsoe. “And that's what I expect to do every week, will it always be that clean, probably not. but that's certainly the type of game I expect to play and I also expect to be able to hit some big plays when we have the opportunity.”
One game certainly doesn't make a season, but Bledsoe does have the Cowboys off and running. And, having the highest quarterback rating in the league after one week, only underscores his successful debut in Dallas. His rating is 143.4.
Here is complete list of Quarterback Ratings after week one:
1 Drew Bledsoe DAL 143.4
2 Tim Rattay SF 141.9
3 Carson Palmer CIN 107.5
4 Tom Brady NE 105.8
5 Byron Leftwich JAC 103.2
6 Peyton Manning IND 98.6
7 Aaron Brooks NO 97.9
8 Gus Frerotte MIA 96.4
9 Joey HarringtonDET 95.4
10 Kerry Collins OAK 94.5
11 Steve McNair TEN 91.7
12 J.P. Losman BUF 89.9
13 Marc Bulger STL 84.1
14 Brian Griese TB 78.7
15 Chad PenningtonNYJ 73.7
16 Kurt Warner ARI 73.1
17 Mark Brunell WAS 70.5
18 Donovan McNabb PHI 68.5
19 Trent Dilfer CLE 67.8
20 Trent Green KC 66.2
21 Anthony Wright BAL 65.8
22 Jake Delhomme CAR 65.5
23 Drew Brees SD 65.1
24 Kyle Boller BAL 63.9
25 Eli Manning NYG 62.2
26 Matt HasselbeckSEA 61.3
27 Michael Vick ATL 55.7
28 Brett Favre GB 53.3
29 Kyle Orton CHI 52.8
30 Jake Plummer DEN 51.
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
Hockey Is Back
It was a scene Hockey fans had been waiting for since 2004. Seeing the Dallas Stars take the ice and start another training camp.
Allen Gardner drove in from Sherman just to see the first day of workouts. “Seventeen months? Too long,” he said. ”College hockey doesn't cut it, ha ha.”
Kenneth Oliver drove a much shorter route from Garland.
“Too long, too long,” he said. What did you do in the meantime? “Went crazy,” he said having regained his sanity.
Not since April 16th, 2004, when Dallas lost to Colorado, had the team been on the ice together. The Zamboni prepared the ice for the Stars.
Heather Bryant from Grapevine was trying to get over Hockey withdrawals.
“Seventeen months without hockey. Yes,” she said.
What did you do? “She was dieing. Crying, she cried a lot,” said Jennifer Horowitz, Bryant’s friend from Trophy Club
It’s been so long, that it seems like starting over.
“It does, I forgot my routine,” said Stars Goaltender Marty Turco. “You get out on the ice. I didn't know what to do. Other than stop the puck. I got that one down. It’s an anxious time for all of us, but for me, its just fun to get out there.
Anxious and eager to get things started again.
“You know what the greatest part about this, the player’s spirits were unbelievable today,” said Dave Tippett, the Stars Head Coach. “You can tell they're anxious to get back, they've missed the game, they love the game, and ah, that makes it great for the coach when you have that much enthusiasm on the ice.”
Rule changes are supposed to emphasize entertainment, skill and competition. Everyone agrees the game will be different.
Stars Center Mike Modano knows there is work to be done. “Unfortunately, we have a little rebuilding to do,” he says, “but I think if they see a new type of game, that's played out there, the fans will be excited about it.”
Bill Guerin, the team’s union representative, is looking for a new start and a new game as well. “There's going to be an adjustment period with all the rule changes,” he says, “You know I think its going to make for great hockey and for great season. I think we're going to look real good with all the rule changes.”
The Stars will be busy for the next few weeks, getting in shape, learning all the new rules, playing eight exhibition games in the next 23-days, and getting ready for the season opener on October 5th. Unlike the last 17-monhts, there will be little free time in the months ahead.
Here is a look at the teams preseason schedule:
SEPTEMBER
Sat. 17 at Colorado 8 p.m. None
Sun. 18 at Edmonton 7 p.m. None
Tue. 20 EDMONTON 7:30 p.m. Ch. 27
Fri. 23 DETROIT 7 p.m. FSNSW
Sun. 25 at Detroit 4 p.m. None
Tue. 27 at St. Louis 7 p.m. FSNSW
Wed. 28 ST. LOUIS 7:30 p.m. Ch. 27
OCTOBER
Day Date Opponent Time TV
Sat. 1 COLORADO 7 p.m. None
Allen Gardner drove in from Sherman just to see the first day of workouts. “Seventeen months? Too long,” he said. ”College hockey doesn't cut it, ha ha.”
Kenneth Oliver drove a much shorter route from Garland.
“Too long, too long,” he said. What did you do in the meantime? “Went crazy,” he said having regained his sanity.
Not since April 16th, 2004, when Dallas lost to Colorado, had the team been on the ice together. The Zamboni prepared the ice for the Stars.
Heather Bryant from Grapevine was trying to get over Hockey withdrawals.
“Seventeen months without hockey. Yes,” she said.
What did you do? “She was dieing. Crying, she cried a lot,” said Jennifer Horowitz, Bryant’s friend from Trophy Club
It’s been so long, that it seems like starting over.
“It does, I forgot my routine,” said Stars Goaltender Marty Turco. “You get out on the ice. I didn't know what to do. Other than stop the puck. I got that one down. It’s an anxious time for all of us, but for me, its just fun to get out there.
Anxious and eager to get things started again.
“You know what the greatest part about this, the player’s spirits were unbelievable today,” said Dave Tippett, the Stars Head Coach. “You can tell they're anxious to get back, they've missed the game, they love the game, and ah, that makes it great for the coach when you have that much enthusiasm on the ice.”
Rule changes are supposed to emphasize entertainment, skill and competition. Everyone agrees the game will be different.
Stars Center Mike Modano knows there is work to be done. “Unfortunately, we have a little rebuilding to do,” he says, “but I think if they see a new type of game, that's played out there, the fans will be excited about it.”
Bill Guerin, the team’s union representative, is looking for a new start and a new game as well. “There's going to be an adjustment period with all the rule changes,” he says, “You know I think its going to make for great hockey and for great season. I think we're going to look real good with all the rule changes.”
The Stars will be busy for the next few weeks, getting in shape, learning all the new rules, playing eight exhibition games in the next 23-days, and getting ready for the season opener on October 5th. Unlike the last 17-monhts, there will be little free time in the months ahead.
Here is a look at the teams preseason schedule:
SEPTEMBER
Sat. 17 at Colorado 8 p.m. None
Sun. 18 at Edmonton 7 p.m. None
Tue. 20 EDMONTON 7:30 p.m. Ch. 27
Fri. 23 DETROIT 7 p.m. FSNSW
Sun. 25 at Detroit 4 p.m. None
Tue. 27 at St. Louis 7 p.m. FSNSW
Wed. 28 ST. LOUIS 7:30 p.m. Ch. 27
OCTOBER
Day Date Opponent Time TV
Sat. 1 COLORADO 7 p.m. None
Monday, September 12, 2005
Cowboys Win But Parcells Focuses on Problems
The pessimistic side of Bill Parcells reappeared on Monday.
“I've said it five times already, it is what is right now. its not perfect,” he said at his Monday press briefing.
He does like the fact that his team won on Sunday, by beating San Diego 28-to-24, but he remains skeptical about his teams performance. Too many mistakes, he says, even if they didn't cost him the game.
“We've got a lot of problems here, we really do. I'm not inventing them, a day after a win, they're the same problems we had before the game, and we need to get some these things fixed, as best we can. Or its just a matter of time before they show up and hurt us.”
His biggest concern, coverage on their kickoffs from his special teams, and the Cowboys punt returns. He was also bothered by the 8 penalties for 46 yards as well.
But despite their mistakes, Dallas had a successful debut, even if Bill Parcells doesn't seem to be enjoying himself.
“Oh no, no, no, he's not enjoying it,” says Tight End Jason Witten. “I'm sure he's ready to go here in about fifteen minutes. We're going to get an earful, but I think he was happy after the game.”
The Cowboys won by not giving up, an encouraging sign by anyone's standards.
“You have a lead, you lose a lead,” says Defensive Tackle La’Roi Glover. “They make a big play, we make a big play, we strike right back and made a big play, we make two big plays at the end, we win the game, and so, that kind of tells you what kind of group you have. You take a shot to the chin, and you don't get knocked out.”
Wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson had a great opening day. He had 5-catches for 65-yards, and 2-touchdowns.
“That's one behind us, and its on the road,” he said. “That's one of the three or four games that we have to go to the West coast, is behind us. Its behind us now, and we can look forward to Washington.”
Dallas went 8-and-8 the last time they won a season opener, and even made the playoffs. The year was 1999, but even a great start does not guarantee anything.
“I've said it five times already, it is what is right now. its not perfect,” he said at his Monday press briefing.
He does like the fact that his team won on Sunday, by beating San Diego 28-to-24, but he remains skeptical about his teams performance. Too many mistakes, he says, even if they didn't cost him the game.
“We've got a lot of problems here, we really do. I'm not inventing them, a day after a win, they're the same problems we had before the game, and we need to get some these things fixed, as best we can. Or its just a matter of time before they show up and hurt us.”
His biggest concern, coverage on their kickoffs from his special teams, and the Cowboys punt returns. He was also bothered by the 8 penalties for 46 yards as well.
But despite their mistakes, Dallas had a successful debut, even if Bill Parcells doesn't seem to be enjoying himself.
“Oh no, no, no, he's not enjoying it,” says Tight End Jason Witten. “I'm sure he's ready to go here in about fifteen minutes. We're going to get an earful, but I think he was happy after the game.”
The Cowboys won by not giving up, an encouraging sign by anyone's standards.
“You have a lead, you lose a lead,” says Defensive Tackle La’Roi Glover. “They make a big play, we make a big play, we strike right back and made a big play, we make two big plays at the end, we win the game, and so, that kind of tells you what kind of group you have. You take a shot to the chin, and you don't get knocked out.”
Wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson had a great opening day. He had 5-catches for 65-yards, and 2-touchdowns.
“That's one behind us, and its on the road,” he said. “That's one of the three or four games that we have to go to the West coast, is behind us. Its behind us now, and we can look forward to Washington.”
Dallas went 8-and-8 the last time they won a season opener, and even made the playoffs. The year was 1999, but even a great start does not guarantee anything.
Sunday, September 11, 2005
Chase for NEXTEL Cup is Set
Having just returned from Chevy Rock and Roll 400 in Richmond, Virginia, I now understand where it got its name.
Nickleback provided pre race entertainment before going to Germany on Sunday. Chad Kroeder, the groups lead singer was psyched about playing at the Race Track.
“Fans in Richmond, Virginia are absolute diehards,” he said. “And if you come to a race in Richmond Virginia its like no other place in the world.”
That it is. Consider it the perfect setting for Gearheads, and the smell of Beer Butt Chicken was in the air.
But this day was all about drivers who had a chance to make the NASCAR Chase for the Nextel Cup, a playoff style format for the Top 10-drivers in the standings.
Ten drivers had a mathematical shot at four spots. Realistically, it was six drivers fighting for three.
“We'll just have to start and see what we have as far as a race car,” said Joe Nemechek who needed a miracle to make the final ten. “We’ll see how its handling, and its not handling right, we'll work on it and see if we can make it better.”
But that never happened. He missed his chance.
Jeff Gordon nudged the wall on lap 211. It knocked the Daytona 500 champion out of contention.
“Ah, just a combination of some bad luck that turned into some bad runs,” said Gordon after the race. “Ithink we're trying to find something and experiment with things and not finding it.”
But one mans misfortune, is another mans gain. Ryan Newman raced on the bubble most of the night, and secured the 10th and final spot.
“There is a feeling of relief, but its not November yet, we still have ten races to go, and we'll see if we can deliver,” he said.
Matt Kenseth got the 9th spot. “Feels good to be in, feels good that we've got some momentum, we're running pretty decent, and hopefully now that we're in we can do something with it.”
Carl Edwards may have been the biggest surprise, sneaking in at 7th. “I'd like to do well enough next year, that we don't have to worry about this last race,” said Edwards. “That had to take to take two three years off my life. Man its tough.”
Jeremey Mayfield secured the 7th spot. “Its tough to get into the top ten of this Chase. We've done it two years in a row, and it says a lot about our race team.”
Mark Martin was giddy about landing the 6th spot. “I tell you, I really don't care about the title, ah, but the trophy is awfully pretty,” he said laughing.
Kurt Bush won this race, finished 5th in the qualifying for the chase, and gets a chance to defend his driver championship. Half the field is from Roush Racing.
“I feel stronger than last year,” he said. “I feel like we've got better race cars, we've had better finishes, we've had consistency problems earlier, but now we're on it, we've got great cars saved up.”
The defending champion added, “We hope we can do it again, but we've got a good challenge ahead of us, because now everyone has their cars up to speed.”
Jimmy Johnson landed the 3rd spot, while Greg Bille is seeded 2nd. But they guy they are all chasing, is Tony Stewart, who is seeded number one.
“I feel like we're ahead of schedule as far as where we were in 2002, we definitely been on a high this last two and half month period,” said Stewart. “The guys are doing everything right, right now, so this is a perfect time to be in that situation right now." I asked, is this was pretty exciting stuff for you?
His sarcastic, but funny response was, “Naw, I really didn't want to be in this situation. I really wasn't planning on being in the chase this year. I thought I would just limp around all year.”
Then came his real answer. “Yeah, I'm excited Numnut.”
So, the field is set for the Chase for the Nextel Cup, ten drivers to decide the next championship. And it includes a stop at the Texas Motor Speedway in November.
Here is a glance at the 10 drivers competing in NASCAR's Chase for the
Nextel Cup championship, in order of points standings:
Number 1:
DRIVER: Tony Stewart
ADJUSTED CHASE POINTS: 5,050
HOMETOWN: Rushville, Ind.
AGE: 34
CAR: No. 20 Home Depot Chevrolet
CREW CHIEF: Greg Zipadelli
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP FINISH: 1st (2002)
OUTLOOK: Stewart heads into the Chase as the driver to beat
after putting together a stretch of five victories in seven races.
Enjoying the most relaxing season of his career, he could make the
run for the Nextel Cup title look easy.
Number 2:
DRIVER: Greg Biffle
ADJUSTED CHASE POINTS: 5,045
HOMETOWN: Vancouver, Wash.
AGE: 35
CAR: No. 16 National Guard/Subway Ford
CREW CHIEF: Doug Richert
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP FINISH: 17th (2004)
OUTLOOK: Biffle was the hottest driver at the start of the
season, with five early wins. It's been a breakthrough season for
the driver who was a virtual unknown before this year. Now, he is
among the top title contenders.
Number 3:
DRIVER: Rusty Wallace
ADJUSTED CHASE POINTS: 5,040
HOMETOWN: St. Louis, Mo.
AGE: 49
CAR: No. 2 Miller Lite Dodge
CREW CHIEF: Larry Carter
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP FINISH: 1st (1989)
OUTLOOK: In his final year of full-time racing, Wallace wants to
add a second Cup title. He's been a surprising success this season,
and knows a championship in his final season would be the best way
for him to leave a lasting impression.
Number 4:
DRIVER: Jimmie Johnson
ADJUSTED CHASE POINTS: 5,035
HOMETOWN: El Cajon, Calif.
AGE: 29 (birthday on Sept. 17)
CAR: No. 48 Lowe's Chevrolet
CREW CHIEF: Chad Knaus
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP FINISH: 2nd (2003, 2004)
OUTLOOK: Johnson has not been as dominant this season as he was
the past two years, but he's consistent. Plus, he's proven he can
turn it up a notch down the final stretch, as he did last year by
winning four of the final six races.
Number 5:
DRIVER: Kurt Busch
ADJUSTED CHASE POINTS: 5,030
HOMETOWN: Las Vegas, Nev.
AGE: 27
CAR: No. 97 Irwin Industrial Tools/Sharpie Ford
CREW CHIEF: Jimmy Fennig
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP FINISH: 1st (2004)
OUTLOOK: Busch is a streaky driver and got hot at just the right
time last season -- using consistency during the 10-race Chase to
win the title. If he can put together another run, he could do it
again.
Number 6:
DRIVER: Mark Martin
ADJUSTED CHASE POINTS: 5,025
HOMETOWN: Batesville, Ark.
AGE: 46
CAR: No. 6 Viagra Ford
CREW CHIEF: Pat Tryson
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP FINISH: 2nd (1990, '94, '98, 2002)
OUTLOOK: Martin wants to retire at the end of the season, and
wants to do it with a title. But with no immediate successor, he
may return for one more year behind the wheel. It won't change his
determination to win his first championship.
Number 7:
DRIVER: Jeremy Mayfield
ADJUSTED CHASE POINTS: 5,020
HOMETOWN: Owensboro, Ky.
AGE: 36
CAR: No. 19 Dodge Dealers/UAW Dodge
CREW CHIEF: Slugger Labbe
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP FINISH: 10th (2004)
OUTLOOK: Mayfield earned his way into the Chase last season in
dramatic fashion by winning at Richmond in the final qualifying
event. But he never had the chance to race for the title -- he was
an innocent victim in an accident caused by Robby Gordon in the
first of the 10 events.
Number 8:
DRIVER: Carl Edwards
ADJUSTED CHASE POINTS: 5,015
HOMETOWN: Columbia, Mo.
AGE: 26
CAR: No. 99 Office Depot Ford
CREW CHIEF: Bob Osborne
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP FINISH: 37th (2004)
OUTLOOK: Edwards ran in only 13 races last year, but has found
surprising success in his first full Nextel Cup season. He won two
races to pull into the top 10, but inexperience may prevent him
from being a legitimate title contender.
Number 9:
DRIVER: Matt Kenseth
ADJUSTED CHASE POINTS: 5,015
HOMETOWN: Cambridge, Wis.
AGE: 33
CAR: No. 17 DeWalt Tools Ford
CREW CHIEF: Robbie Reiser
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP FINISH: 1st (2003)
OUTLOOK: Kenseth was having a horrible season until late July,
when he turned it up in a frantic push to make the Chase. Kenseth
is the master of consistency, and the only one capable of turning a
string of solid finishes into a championship.
Number 10:
DRIVER: Ryan Newman
ADJUSTED CHASE POINTS: 5,005
HOMETOWN: South Bend, Ind.
AGE: 27
CAR: No. 12 ALLTEL Dodge
CREW CHIEF: Matt Borland
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP FINISH: 6th (2002, '03)
OUTLOOK: Newman is a numbers man, and isn't satisfied with this
stat: Five poles and zero wins this season. The Chase would be the
perfect forum for the "Rocketman" to improve the bottom line.
Nickleback provided pre race entertainment before going to Germany on Sunday. Chad Kroeder, the groups lead singer was psyched about playing at the Race Track.
“Fans in Richmond, Virginia are absolute diehards,” he said. “And if you come to a race in Richmond Virginia its like no other place in the world.”
That it is. Consider it the perfect setting for Gearheads, and the smell of Beer Butt Chicken was in the air.
But this day was all about drivers who had a chance to make the NASCAR Chase for the Nextel Cup, a playoff style format for the Top 10-drivers in the standings.
Ten drivers had a mathematical shot at four spots. Realistically, it was six drivers fighting for three.
“We'll just have to start and see what we have as far as a race car,” said Joe Nemechek who needed a miracle to make the final ten. “We’ll see how its handling, and its not handling right, we'll work on it and see if we can make it better.”
But that never happened. He missed his chance.
Jeff Gordon nudged the wall on lap 211. It knocked the Daytona 500 champion out of contention.
“Ah, just a combination of some bad luck that turned into some bad runs,” said Gordon after the race. “Ithink we're trying to find something and experiment with things and not finding it.”
But one mans misfortune, is another mans gain. Ryan Newman raced on the bubble most of the night, and secured the 10th and final spot.
“There is a feeling of relief, but its not November yet, we still have ten races to go, and we'll see if we can deliver,” he said.
Matt Kenseth got the 9th spot. “Feels good to be in, feels good that we've got some momentum, we're running pretty decent, and hopefully now that we're in we can do something with it.”
Carl Edwards may have been the biggest surprise, sneaking in at 7th. “I'd like to do well enough next year, that we don't have to worry about this last race,” said Edwards. “That had to take to take two three years off my life. Man its tough.”
Jeremey Mayfield secured the 7th spot. “Its tough to get into the top ten of this Chase. We've done it two years in a row, and it says a lot about our race team.”
Mark Martin was giddy about landing the 6th spot. “I tell you, I really don't care about the title, ah, but the trophy is awfully pretty,” he said laughing.
Kurt Bush won this race, finished 5th in the qualifying for the chase, and gets a chance to defend his driver championship. Half the field is from Roush Racing.
“I feel stronger than last year,” he said. “I feel like we've got better race cars, we've had better finishes, we've had consistency problems earlier, but now we're on it, we've got great cars saved up.”
The defending champion added, “We hope we can do it again, but we've got a good challenge ahead of us, because now everyone has their cars up to speed.”
Jimmy Johnson landed the 3rd spot, while Greg Bille is seeded 2nd. But they guy they are all chasing, is Tony Stewart, who is seeded number one.
“I feel like we're ahead of schedule as far as where we were in 2002, we definitely been on a high this last two and half month period,” said Stewart. “The guys are doing everything right, right now, so this is a perfect time to be in that situation right now." I asked, is this was pretty exciting stuff for you?
His sarcastic, but funny response was, “Naw, I really didn't want to be in this situation. I really wasn't planning on being in the chase this year. I thought I would just limp around all year.”
Then came his real answer. “Yeah, I'm excited Numnut.”
So, the field is set for the Chase for the Nextel Cup, ten drivers to decide the next championship. And it includes a stop at the Texas Motor Speedway in November.
Here is a glance at the 10 drivers competing in NASCAR's Chase for the
Nextel Cup championship, in order of points standings:
Number 1:
DRIVER: Tony Stewart
ADJUSTED CHASE POINTS: 5,050
HOMETOWN: Rushville, Ind.
AGE: 34
CAR: No. 20 Home Depot Chevrolet
CREW CHIEF: Greg Zipadelli
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP FINISH: 1st (2002)
OUTLOOK: Stewart heads into the Chase as the driver to beat
after putting together a stretch of five victories in seven races.
Enjoying the most relaxing season of his career, he could make the
run for the Nextel Cup title look easy.
Number 2:
DRIVER: Greg Biffle
ADJUSTED CHASE POINTS: 5,045
HOMETOWN: Vancouver, Wash.
AGE: 35
CAR: No. 16 National Guard/Subway Ford
CREW CHIEF: Doug Richert
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP FINISH: 17th (2004)
OUTLOOK: Biffle was the hottest driver at the start of the
season, with five early wins. It's been a breakthrough season for
the driver who was a virtual unknown before this year. Now, he is
among the top title contenders.
Number 3:
DRIVER: Rusty Wallace
ADJUSTED CHASE POINTS: 5,040
HOMETOWN: St. Louis, Mo.
AGE: 49
CAR: No. 2 Miller Lite Dodge
CREW CHIEF: Larry Carter
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP FINISH: 1st (1989)
OUTLOOK: In his final year of full-time racing, Wallace wants to
add a second Cup title. He's been a surprising success this season,
and knows a championship in his final season would be the best way
for him to leave a lasting impression.
Number 4:
DRIVER: Jimmie Johnson
ADJUSTED CHASE POINTS: 5,035
HOMETOWN: El Cajon, Calif.
AGE: 29 (birthday on Sept. 17)
CAR: No. 48 Lowe's Chevrolet
CREW CHIEF: Chad Knaus
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP FINISH: 2nd (2003, 2004)
OUTLOOK: Johnson has not been as dominant this season as he was
the past two years, but he's consistent. Plus, he's proven he can
turn it up a notch down the final stretch, as he did last year by
winning four of the final six races.
Number 5:
DRIVER: Kurt Busch
ADJUSTED CHASE POINTS: 5,030
HOMETOWN: Las Vegas, Nev.
AGE: 27
CAR: No. 97 Irwin Industrial Tools/Sharpie Ford
CREW CHIEF: Jimmy Fennig
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP FINISH: 1st (2004)
OUTLOOK: Busch is a streaky driver and got hot at just the right
time last season -- using consistency during the 10-race Chase to
win the title. If he can put together another run, he could do it
again.
Number 6:
DRIVER: Mark Martin
ADJUSTED CHASE POINTS: 5,025
HOMETOWN: Batesville, Ark.
AGE: 46
CAR: No. 6 Viagra Ford
CREW CHIEF: Pat Tryson
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP FINISH: 2nd (1990, '94, '98, 2002)
OUTLOOK: Martin wants to retire at the end of the season, and
wants to do it with a title. But with no immediate successor, he
may return for one more year behind the wheel. It won't change his
determination to win his first championship.
Number 7:
DRIVER: Jeremy Mayfield
ADJUSTED CHASE POINTS: 5,020
HOMETOWN: Owensboro, Ky.
AGE: 36
CAR: No. 19 Dodge Dealers/UAW Dodge
CREW CHIEF: Slugger Labbe
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP FINISH: 10th (2004)
OUTLOOK: Mayfield earned his way into the Chase last season in
dramatic fashion by winning at Richmond in the final qualifying
event. But he never had the chance to race for the title -- he was
an innocent victim in an accident caused by Robby Gordon in the
first of the 10 events.
Number 8:
DRIVER: Carl Edwards
ADJUSTED CHASE POINTS: 5,015
HOMETOWN: Columbia, Mo.
AGE: 26
CAR: No. 99 Office Depot Ford
CREW CHIEF: Bob Osborne
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP FINISH: 37th (2004)
OUTLOOK: Edwards ran in only 13 races last year, but has found
surprising success in his first full Nextel Cup season. He won two
races to pull into the top 10, but inexperience may prevent him
from being a legitimate title contender.
Number 9:
DRIVER: Matt Kenseth
ADJUSTED CHASE POINTS: 5,015
HOMETOWN: Cambridge, Wis.
AGE: 33
CAR: No. 17 DeWalt Tools Ford
CREW CHIEF: Robbie Reiser
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP FINISH: 1st (2003)
OUTLOOK: Kenseth was having a horrible season until late July,
when he turned it up in a frantic push to make the Chase. Kenseth
is the master of consistency, and the only one capable of turning a
string of solid finishes into a championship.
Number 10:
DRIVER: Ryan Newman
ADJUSTED CHASE POINTS: 5,005
HOMETOWN: South Bend, Ind.
AGE: 27
CAR: No. 12 ALLTEL Dodge
CREW CHIEF: Matt Borland
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP FINISH: 6th (2002, '03)
OUTLOOK: Newman is a numbers man, and isn't satisfied with this
stat: Five poles and zero wins this season. The Chase would be the
perfect forum for the "Rocketman" to improve the bottom line.
Thursday, September 08, 2005
Horned Frogs Crack Top 25
The TCU Campus hasn't been the same this week. Walk ten feet, in any direction, and you’ll find a student ready to talk about their football team.
“People are walking around with OU shirts X-ed out,” says Felicia Wright, a TCU student. “We won this and that, everyone is all excited about it.”
The dormitories are decked out as well. “It’s all over everyone's doors, and on the internet, and their profiles, on instant messenger,” says Ashley Hamaker. “I think its just kind of shock.”
Outside on the dorms, students posted the final score, 17-to-10, where it has remained all week. Talk about a change in expectations.
“We're going to win the national championship,” says an optimistic Leo Su. “Next year, we're going to ranked number one.”
Great thought, but that may be a little far fetched. Still, TCU football is on the rise. After all, they cracked the Associated Press Top 20 at number-22.
“I just told them there's going to be fifty percent of the people out there that believe that this is just a one time thing,” says TCU Head Coach Gary Patterson in a raspy voice. “The only way to prove that any different is to come back and win next week.”
That means beating cross town rival SMU in University Park this weekend, a team the Horned Frogs have beaten the last six meetings.
Herbert Taylor is part of TCU’s big offensive line. “The way you prove it was not a fluke, is go into the season and you win out every ball game, kind of proving to the nation that you are at team deserving.”
David Roach is the starting weakside linebacker. He says “We're out to prove that we're going to be the best in our conference, and we're hopefully, going to be undefeated by the end of the season and go to a bowl game.”
The schools string of six straight bowl appearances ended last year.
Ranorris Ray, who is a Lombardi Award candidate, says, “I think the only part that should carry over is confidence from winning a big game like this. We shouldn't because we've got ten more straight ball games. We can't overlook SMU.
TCU certainly turned some heads with their season opening win against Oklahoma last weekend, but now comes the tough part, living up to the standard set by such an incredible win.
The winner gets to keep the Iron Skillet, a tradition started during the post-World War II college football boom. The tradition actually disappeared for a while when the Skillet was lost, but fear not, it was found and the tradition was reborn in 1993.
The game will begin at 8:30 pm on Saturday night at Gerald Ford Stadium in University Park and nationally televised on CSTV.
“People are walking around with OU shirts X-ed out,” says Felicia Wright, a TCU student. “We won this and that, everyone is all excited about it.”
The dormitories are decked out as well. “It’s all over everyone's doors, and on the internet, and their profiles, on instant messenger,” says Ashley Hamaker. “I think its just kind of shock.”
Outside on the dorms, students posted the final score, 17-to-10, where it has remained all week. Talk about a change in expectations.
“We're going to win the national championship,” says an optimistic Leo Su. “Next year, we're going to ranked number one.”
Great thought, but that may be a little far fetched. Still, TCU football is on the rise. After all, they cracked the Associated Press Top 20 at number-22.
“I just told them there's going to be fifty percent of the people out there that believe that this is just a one time thing,” says TCU Head Coach Gary Patterson in a raspy voice. “The only way to prove that any different is to come back and win next week.”
That means beating cross town rival SMU in University Park this weekend, a team the Horned Frogs have beaten the last six meetings.
Herbert Taylor is part of TCU’s big offensive line. “The way you prove it was not a fluke, is go into the season and you win out every ball game, kind of proving to the nation that you are at team deserving.”
David Roach is the starting weakside linebacker. He says “We're out to prove that we're going to be the best in our conference, and we're hopefully, going to be undefeated by the end of the season and go to a bowl game.”
The schools string of six straight bowl appearances ended last year.
Ranorris Ray, who is a Lombardi Award candidate, says, “I think the only part that should carry over is confidence from winning a big game like this. We shouldn't because we've got ten more straight ball games. We can't overlook SMU.
TCU certainly turned some heads with their season opening win against Oklahoma last weekend, but now comes the tough part, living up to the standard set by such an incredible win.
The winner gets to keep the Iron Skillet, a tradition started during the post-World War II college football boom. The tradition actually disappeared for a while when the Skillet was lost, but fear not, it was found and the tradition was reborn in 1993.
The game will begin at 8:30 pm on Saturday night at Gerald Ford Stadium in University Park and nationally televised on CSTV.
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
Bill Parcells or Drew Bledsoe: Who's Cranky?
Drew Bledsoe will start his 13th season in San Diego on Sunday, and his fifth year, playing under Bill Parcells. Apparently, they've grown accustomed to having each other around.
“I'm not trying to be funny,” says Parcells. “He's a lot crankier than he was when I first had him. He's starting to sound like me.”
Which is a scary thought in itself.
“Oh man,” says Bledsoe, “That's what he told me. Your starting to act like me. I told him, I'm going to retire if I ever start to act like you,” he said with a grin.
But no matter how he acts, Parcells likes they way his offense has progressed during training under Bledsoe's leadership.
“He’s much more experienced and he knows the league much better,” says Parcells. “He knows the problems much more readily, and his knowledge base is far greater than it was when I had him.”
Bledsoe may be a little crankier, but he has leaned enough to visualize a coaches perspective. “I think he places a little more value on my opinion,” says Bledsoe, “and when he asks me for input, he places a little more weight on that. He knows I've been around, enough now, to kind of know what's going on.”
The offense has shown signs during preseason, that things might actually be coming together. Says Bledsoe, “I feel like we've progressed each week in the preseason, to the point where the last preseason game, we went out and executed very well. “I also feel like we came out of the preseason right where we needed to be, and I think everybody is excited and confident going into this game.”
There are comparison's to last year, Vinny Testaverde came in, as a much older and much slower Quarterback.
“Drew is just a bit more tempo,” says Tight End Jason Witte. “He expects a lot more out of his guys. I think that's something we need on offense, somebody holding you accountable and that's what makes us a good football team.”
Parcells is convinced, that if Bledsoe wasn't playing in Dallas, the 33-year old would be playing somewhere in the league, even if other teams didn't pursue him as aggressively as the Cowboys.
Asked if he was the beneficiary of their decision, Parcells replied. “Well I don't know. I don't know if I'm the beneficiary or not. I could be a victim,” laughingly. “You never know. I'm just teasing now. Don't put that in there as a story.”
Oops, already have. Parcells says Bledsoe is the best quarterback he has had since he arrived in Dallas, so is he the Beneficiary or the Victim? We'll see if he can cash in, once the playoffs begin in January. If they don't, we know who the crankies guy will be.
“I'm not trying to be funny,” says Parcells. “He's a lot crankier than he was when I first had him. He's starting to sound like me.”
Which is a scary thought in itself.
“Oh man,” says Bledsoe, “That's what he told me. Your starting to act like me. I told him, I'm going to retire if I ever start to act like you,” he said with a grin.
But no matter how he acts, Parcells likes they way his offense has progressed during training under Bledsoe's leadership.
“He’s much more experienced and he knows the league much better,” says Parcells. “He knows the problems much more readily, and his knowledge base is far greater than it was when I had him.”
Bledsoe may be a little crankier, but he has leaned enough to visualize a coaches perspective. “I think he places a little more value on my opinion,” says Bledsoe, “and when he asks me for input, he places a little more weight on that. He knows I've been around, enough now, to kind of know what's going on.”
The offense has shown signs during preseason, that things might actually be coming together. Says Bledsoe, “I feel like we've progressed each week in the preseason, to the point where the last preseason game, we went out and executed very well. “I also feel like we came out of the preseason right where we needed to be, and I think everybody is excited and confident going into this game.”
There are comparison's to last year, Vinny Testaverde came in, as a much older and much slower Quarterback.
“Drew is just a bit more tempo,” says Tight End Jason Witte. “He expects a lot more out of his guys. I think that's something we need on offense, somebody holding you accountable and that's what makes us a good football team.”
Parcells is convinced, that if Bledsoe wasn't playing in Dallas, the 33-year old would be playing somewhere in the league, even if other teams didn't pursue him as aggressively as the Cowboys.
Asked if he was the beneficiary of their decision, Parcells replied. “Well I don't know. I don't know if I'm the beneficiary or not. I could be a victim,” laughingly. “You never know. I'm just teasing now. Don't put that in there as a story.”
Oops, already have. Parcells says Bledsoe is the best quarterback he has had since he arrived in Dallas, so is he the Beneficiary or the Victim? We'll see if he can cash in, once the playoffs begin in January. If they don't, we know who the crankies guy will be.
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Bill Parcells and His Rookie Class
Bill Parcells can't remember the last time he had ten rookies on one team.
“I don't think ever,” he said at Monday’s press briefing. “I mean, none of my good teams ever had it,” he said laughing. “I know that. So, I mean, there's not that many jobs, but the game has changed too.”
This year, his rookie total is ten. That includes seven draft picks and three free agents. All but one of his draft picks is on the team, but Safety Justin Beriault will be back next year, after being placed on injured reserve for the rest of the year.
In 1975, Dallas had 12-rookies, and made it to Super Bowl X. They've had more since, including eleven in 1984 and eleven in 1991, but ten is a lot.
“I don't remember him having this many rookies,” says Jason Ferguson who was drafted by Parcells. “I definitely don't, not as young a team as we have. (this year) We'll see. I think, so far, we can count on a few of them, and if a few will show their faces, we'll be alright.”
Free agents are always the longest of long shots, and this year there are three.
Thomas “Pepper” Johnson was an undrafted Defensive Tackle from Middle Tennessee State. Says Johnson, “It feels pretty good coming in with Marcus Spears and Demarcus Ware. They’re pretty good players, and I made it just like they made it, so I feel like I'm a pretty good player now too.”
Running back Tyson Thompson, became the first Irving native to make the Cowboys roster. “It’s a great feeling to be able to compete and play for your home town team, America's team, so I'm just thankful.”
Then there’s Jon Condo, who takes over the Long Snapping duties. “Coach Parcells came up to me and said, ‘hey you can do this for fifteen years,’ and I was like wow. I've never put it in perspective like that, “he said. “It’s going to be hard to replace Jeff Robinson, but I just want to go out there and do whatever I can to help out the team.”
Rob Petitti made the team at Right Tackle, closing the most competitive position during training camp. “I mean, this is my first year, so I don't really know,” he said. “I don't know. We look good I think, but what do I know, you know. I'm still learning.”
The teams top draft pick, Demarcus Ware is ready for the season as well. “I think its going to work out really well,” he said, “and I think we'll be able to contribute.”
But rookies will be rookies, and sometimes, gaining experience can come at a cost.
Says Parcells, “I don't know, that's not that good news. I know its good news and its bad news. It’s good news for the future. It’s bad news for right now. But you know, maybe six weeks from now, that won't be bad news.”
Having this many rookies on one team is unfamiliar territory for Parcells, but it may also show his commitment to rebuilding this franchise, and it may also show his commitment to the future. He remains under contract through the 2006 season.
“I don't think ever,” he said at Monday’s press briefing. “I mean, none of my good teams ever had it,” he said laughing. “I know that. So, I mean, there's not that many jobs, but the game has changed too.”
This year, his rookie total is ten. That includes seven draft picks and three free agents. All but one of his draft picks is on the team, but Safety Justin Beriault will be back next year, after being placed on injured reserve for the rest of the year.
In 1975, Dallas had 12-rookies, and made it to Super Bowl X. They've had more since, including eleven in 1984 and eleven in 1991, but ten is a lot.
“I don't remember him having this many rookies,” says Jason Ferguson who was drafted by Parcells. “I definitely don't, not as young a team as we have. (this year) We'll see. I think, so far, we can count on a few of them, and if a few will show their faces, we'll be alright.”
Free agents are always the longest of long shots, and this year there are three.
Thomas “Pepper” Johnson was an undrafted Defensive Tackle from Middle Tennessee State. Says Johnson, “It feels pretty good coming in with Marcus Spears and Demarcus Ware. They’re pretty good players, and I made it just like they made it, so I feel like I'm a pretty good player now too.”
Running back Tyson Thompson, became the first Irving native to make the Cowboys roster. “It’s a great feeling to be able to compete and play for your home town team, America's team, so I'm just thankful.”
Then there’s Jon Condo, who takes over the Long Snapping duties. “Coach Parcells came up to me and said, ‘hey you can do this for fifteen years,’ and I was like wow. I've never put it in perspective like that, “he said. “It’s going to be hard to replace Jeff Robinson, but I just want to go out there and do whatever I can to help out the team.”
Rob Petitti made the team at Right Tackle, closing the most competitive position during training camp. “I mean, this is my first year, so I don't really know,” he said. “I don't know. We look good I think, but what do I know, you know. I'm still learning.”
The teams top draft pick, Demarcus Ware is ready for the season as well. “I think its going to work out really well,” he said, “and I think we'll be able to contribute.”
But rookies will be rookies, and sometimes, gaining experience can come at a cost.
Says Parcells, “I don't know, that's not that good news. I know its good news and its bad news. It’s good news for the future. It’s bad news for right now. But you know, maybe six weeks from now, that won't be bad news.”
Having this many rookies on one team is unfamiliar territory for Parcells, but it may also show his commitment to rebuilding this franchise, and it may also show his commitment to the future. He remains under contract through the 2006 season.
Monday, September 05, 2005
Cowboys Roster Adjustments
The Calendar says its time for the regular season to begin. In fact, the Dallas Cowboys roster for opening day was set for about two days, before changes began to move in.
First there was a switch at wide receiver, as Quincy Morgan was released and replaced by Peerless Price from Atlanta. Price signed a one year contract, said to be worth $1 million plus another $1 million in incentives
“I didn't promise him anything,” said Bill Parcells, head coach of the Dallas Cowboys. “What I told him the other day is true, I said you have to make your own role. I said, I don't know if you’re going to play or not play, you have to earn your way in. These players have won my respect, so you’re going to have to do something to do that.”
Quarterback Drew Bledsoe lobbied extensively to convince the Cowboys to bring Price to Dallas. The two played together in Buffalo, where he had one of his best years, playing with Bledsoe. But, if he expects to play on opening day, it might be tough.
Said Price, “I think if its on a small scale, yeah. I can do some things this weekend, obviously but as far as understanding the entire play book, I think it will take a couple of weeks.”
As far as who was responsible for him coming to Dallas, Price said, “Coach Parcells played a major part, Jerry Jones played a major part, just the opportunity to come in here and play with guys that are established. I want to play with guys like Keyshawn Johnson and Terry Glenn and Drew Bledsoe.”
The Cowboys also acquired two players from Kansas City. One is free agent safety Willie Pile, which gives Dallas a much needed third safety behind Roy Williams and Keith Davis.
“I was at the computer,” says Pile, “and I was like, man they've only got two safeties and they had one on injured reserve. So I'm like, of all the places, this would be a perfect opportunity to come in, and learn behind two safeties that can play.”
The Cowboys other move included the replacement of Eric Ogbogu. He was released before the team traded for Linebacker Scott Fujita from Kansas City. It cost Dallas a 6th round draft pick next year, and a conditional pick in 2007. Fujita is a man who lead that team in tackles the last two years.
“I got a call from Carl Peterson Saturday afternoon after all the final cuts were made, and he said, hey we just traded you to the Dallas Cowboys. I said thank you for accommodating my wishes, and best of luck.” Asked if he had wanted to be traded, Fujita said, “Yes, I did.”
So with these latest roster adjustments, the cowboys can now start thinking about their first game against San Diego, but with Bill Parcells, the next change is always a just a day away.
First there was a switch at wide receiver, as Quincy Morgan was released and replaced by Peerless Price from Atlanta. Price signed a one year contract, said to be worth $1 million plus another $1 million in incentives
“I didn't promise him anything,” said Bill Parcells, head coach of the Dallas Cowboys. “What I told him the other day is true, I said you have to make your own role. I said, I don't know if you’re going to play or not play, you have to earn your way in. These players have won my respect, so you’re going to have to do something to do that.”
Quarterback Drew Bledsoe lobbied extensively to convince the Cowboys to bring Price to Dallas. The two played together in Buffalo, where he had one of his best years, playing with Bledsoe. But, if he expects to play on opening day, it might be tough.
Said Price, “I think if its on a small scale, yeah. I can do some things this weekend, obviously but as far as understanding the entire play book, I think it will take a couple of weeks.”
As far as who was responsible for him coming to Dallas, Price said, “Coach Parcells played a major part, Jerry Jones played a major part, just the opportunity to come in here and play with guys that are established. I want to play with guys like Keyshawn Johnson and Terry Glenn and Drew Bledsoe.”
The Cowboys also acquired two players from Kansas City. One is free agent safety Willie Pile, which gives Dallas a much needed third safety behind Roy Williams and Keith Davis.
“I was at the computer,” says Pile, “and I was like, man they've only got two safeties and they had one on injured reserve. So I'm like, of all the places, this would be a perfect opportunity to come in, and learn behind two safeties that can play.”
The Cowboys other move included the replacement of Eric Ogbogu. He was released before the team traded for Linebacker Scott Fujita from Kansas City. It cost Dallas a 6th round draft pick next year, and a conditional pick in 2007. Fujita is a man who lead that team in tackles the last two years.
“I got a call from Carl Peterson Saturday afternoon after all the final cuts were made, and he said, hey we just traded you to the Dallas Cowboys. I said thank you for accommodating my wishes, and best of luck.” Asked if he had wanted to be traded, Fujita said, “Yes, I did.”
So with these latest roster adjustments, the cowboys can now start thinking about their first game against San Diego, but with Bill Parcells, the next change is always a just a day away.
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Dale Earnhardt Jr and Roanoke Police
Dale Earnhardt Junior interrupted his cross country flight from North Carolina to California, to spend a few hours at the Texas Motor Speedway on Wednesday. Earnhardt won his first career NASCAR Busch Series race at this track in 1998, and also won his first NASCAR NEXTEL Cup race here.
But on this day, track president Eddie Gossage provided him with a different challenge.
"Have you ever run from the cops before?" asked Gossage.
"No I haven't, I promise," said Earnhardt, to which Gossage replied, "I believe that. I'd stick to that story if I were you."
Earnhardt used his stop to talk about the second NEXTEL Cup race here in November, and participated in pursuit training. It didn't take long before you could smell the brakes on his new Corvette, heating up.
Trying to catch Earnhardt on this infield road course, may be asking a little too much for the Roanoke Police Department, so consider it an advanced course of high speed pursuit.
"I'm always running from people on Sunday's but ah," said Earnhardt. "But those sirens, they don't have sirens on their cars on Sunday's, so that was pretty interesting ha ha."
Just as interesting is Earnhardt's season in racing. He is currently 15th, 117-points behind the last spot for the Chase for the Nextel Cup Championship with two races to go. If he doesn't win the next two races in California and Richmond, Earnhardt may miss the Chase entirely.
At the infield media center, Earnhardt took time to talk one on with with television reporters.
"It's not one guy," he said. "We're a hundred points behind, there's a few in between that we also have to be in front off, that we're 20- behind, 30-behind or fifty behind, so circumstances certainly have to go in our favor."
Which brings us back to this demonstration on the infield road course. If only the rest of the NASCAR field were chasing Earnhardt this season.
Robert Crawford from the Roanoke Police Department was the pursuit car, that was trying to catch Earnhardt on the track. "It's our job is to sit back and visualize everything, ah, and once they crash out or run out of gas, or whatever, that's when we're going to take control of the situation." Of course he never caught Earnhardt in the Corvette.
But, if the Roanoke Police Department could add a Corvette to level the playing field, then the outcome might be a little different. "Ah, its very doubtful," said Crawford laughingly. "We might talk to our mayor and city council, but I doubt it."
Earnhardt seemed to enjoy the pursuit. "You see this stuff on TV all the time," he said. "One thing about our job is we have control. one thing about their job is they don't have control of the guy they're after, that's the scary part."
Arnold Payne, photographer for WFAA TV asked, "Maybe you should drive the squad car?"
"Yeah, that's what i'm saying," Earnhardt replied. "I don't know if the insurance would cover it."
Probably not.
But on this day, track president Eddie Gossage provided him with a different challenge.
"Have you ever run from the cops before?" asked Gossage.
"No I haven't, I promise," said Earnhardt, to which Gossage replied, "I believe that. I'd stick to that story if I were you."
Earnhardt used his stop to talk about the second NEXTEL Cup race here in November, and participated in pursuit training. It didn't take long before you could smell the brakes on his new Corvette, heating up.
Trying to catch Earnhardt on this infield road course, may be asking a little too much for the Roanoke Police Department, so consider it an advanced course of high speed pursuit.
"I'm always running from people on Sunday's but ah," said Earnhardt. "But those sirens, they don't have sirens on their cars on Sunday's, so that was pretty interesting ha ha."
Just as interesting is Earnhardt's season in racing. He is currently 15th, 117-points behind the last spot for the Chase for the Nextel Cup Championship with two races to go. If he doesn't win the next two races in California and Richmond, Earnhardt may miss the Chase entirely.
At the infield media center, Earnhardt took time to talk one on with with television reporters.
"It's not one guy," he said. "We're a hundred points behind, there's a few in between that we also have to be in front off, that we're 20- behind, 30-behind or fifty behind, so circumstances certainly have to go in our favor."
Which brings us back to this demonstration on the infield road course. If only the rest of the NASCAR field were chasing Earnhardt this season.
Robert Crawford from the Roanoke Police Department was the pursuit car, that was trying to catch Earnhardt on the track. "It's our job is to sit back and visualize everything, ah, and once they crash out or run out of gas, or whatever, that's when we're going to take control of the situation." Of course he never caught Earnhardt in the Corvette.
But, if the Roanoke Police Department could add a Corvette to level the playing field, then the outcome might be a little different. "Ah, its very doubtful," said Crawford laughingly. "We might talk to our mayor and city council, but I doubt it."
Earnhardt seemed to enjoy the pursuit. "You see this stuff on TV all the time," he said. "One thing about our job is we have control. one thing about their job is they don't have control of the guy they're after, that's the scary part."
Arnold Payne, photographer for WFAA TV asked, "Maybe you should drive the squad car?"
"Yeah, that's what i'm saying," Earnhardt replied. "I don't know if the insurance would cover it."
Probably not.
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
SMU Opens Season Against Baylor Saturday
SMU’s season opener on Saturday marks the beginning of Phil Bennett's fourth season as the schools head coach. Last year's three win season came with players that didn't have much experience, but he hopes this year will be different.
Talking at a weekly luncheon, Bennett said, “Last year when we played Texas Tech, we had a bunch of guys who had never played in a college game. This year, we're going to have twenty five or twenty six guys who have started 3-or more college games during their career.”
A move to Conference USA also shows a change in philosophy, as the school tries to play more and more teams that are geographic neighbors.
Bennett says playing teams in Texas saves travel money. A trip to Hawaii for the football team, cost $200,000.
So is he yearning for the good old, days of the Southwest Conference? “Yeah, in some ways,” he says, “With a little more integrity. Ha! Ha! Ha!”
Bennett says his team has also matured enough, that they’re finally showing signs of growing up.
Rolando Humphrey, a cornerback from nearby Cedar Hill says, “We've been so young for so long, but after a while, you can't be young forever. Everybody is progressing and maturing and the more we mature, the better we get out here.”
Humphrey is expected to be a leader on defense this year, even if he is a Junior. “I'm more confident coming into this year. We have a lot more senior leadership. As far as the younger players they have a lot more to expect, because we're leading them in the right direction. I'm looking forward to this season, because I know its going to be a different team. Its not the same team.”
SMU will host Baylor in their season opener Saturday, one of five former Southwest Conference teams on their schedule, and six teams from Texas.
SMU has had only one winning year since 1986. It’s been a long time since winning had a home in University Park, but Phil Bennett hopes this is the year, that history begins to change. Afterall, it has to change sometime
Here is a look at the games ahead.
09/03/2005
Baylor Dallas, Texas 7:00 PM Live Video
09/10/2005
TCU Dallas, Texas CSTV 8:30 PM
09/17/2005 at Texas A&M College Station, Texas FSN 11:30 AM
09/24/2005 Tulane* Dallas, Texas 7:00 PM
10/01/2005 at Marshall* Huntington, W.V. 3:30 PM
10/08/2005 at UAB* Birmingham, Alabama 6:00 PM
10/15/2005 East Carolina* Dallas, Texas 2:00 PM
10/22/2005 at Tulsa* Tulsa, Oklahoma 2:00 PM
11/05/2005 Rice* Dallas, Texas 2:00 PM
11/12/2005 at Houston* Houston, Texas TV (PAX) 6:00 PM
11/26/2005 UTEP* Dallas, Texas 2:00 PM
12/03/2005 C-USA Championship TBA
Talking at a weekly luncheon, Bennett said, “Last year when we played Texas Tech, we had a bunch of guys who had never played in a college game. This year, we're going to have twenty five or twenty six guys who have started 3-or more college games during their career.”
A move to Conference USA also shows a change in philosophy, as the school tries to play more and more teams that are geographic neighbors.
Bennett says playing teams in Texas saves travel money. A trip to Hawaii for the football team, cost $200,000.
So is he yearning for the good old, days of the Southwest Conference? “Yeah, in some ways,” he says, “With a little more integrity. Ha! Ha! Ha!”
Bennett says his team has also matured enough, that they’re finally showing signs of growing up.
Rolando Humphrey, a cornerback from nearby Cedar Hill says, “We've been so young for so long, but after a while, you can't be young forever. Everybody is progressing and maturing and the more we mature, the better we get out here.”
Humphrey is expected to be a leader on defense this year, even if he is a Junior. “I'm more confident coming into this year. We have a lot more senior leadership. As far as the younger players they have a lot more to expect, because we're leading them in the right direction. I'm looking forward to this season, because I know its going to be a different team. Its not the same team.”
SMU will host Baylor in their season opener Saturday, one of five former Southwest Conference teams on their schedule, and six teams from Texas.
SMU has had only one winning year since 1986. It’s been a long time since winning had a home in University Park, but Phil Bennett hopes this is the year, that history begins to change. Afterall, it has to change sometime
Here is a look at the games ahead.
09/03/2005
Baylor Dallas, Texas 7:00 PM Live Video
09/10/2005
TCU Dallas, Texas CSTV 8:30 PM
09/17/2005 at Texas A&M College Station, Texas FSN 11:30 AM
09/24/2005 Tulane* Dallas, Texas 7:00 PM
10/01/2005 at Marshall* Huntington, W.V. 3:30 PM
10/08/2005 at UAB* Birmingham, Alabama 6:00 PM
10/15/2005 East Carolina* Dallas, Texas 2:00 PM
10/22/2005 at Tulsa* Tulsa, Oklahoma 2:00 PM
11/05/2005 Rice* Dallas, Texas 2:00 PM
11/12/2005 at Houston* Houston, Texas TV (PAX) 6:00 PM
11/26/2005 UTEP* Dallas, Texas 2:00 PM
12/03/2005 C-USA Championship TBA
Monday, August 29, 2005
Jason Ferguson Returns from Injury
Monday's practice for the Dallas Cowboys at Valley Ranch was all about a quick recovery. The team played a preseason game Saturday night and began preparing for the last preseason game on Thursday. This day was also about getting Nose Tackle Jason Ferguson back on the field.
Cowboys Head Coach Bill Parcells said “We're going to work him out in pads before the practice today, and we'll see how he does. He's doing better. But I don't want to set him back either.”
For Ferguson, it will be his last chance to try and get on the field with the Cowboys, before the season starts. But if he can't play Thursday, Ferguson says, he isn't worried one bit.
“I’m a football player,” he said, “so that's all I've been doing. I’ve learned how to cover plays where I'm at. So if it takes that long, (until the season opener) I'm hoping it won't, but if it takes that long, I think I'll be fine.”
Ferguson was drafted by Parcells in 1997, and wanted him back to anchor his defense, signing a 5-year contract, with a 9-million dollar bonus.
The last time we saw him on the field, before today, was training camp in Oxnard, California. His ankle injury has kept him from playing a single play in preseason, yet he will not doubt himself.
“Naw naw, I won't have any doubt. If I'm taking that field, I'm taking it knowing what's at stake. I'm definitely not looking down, looking back. What if I step wrong, you can't go out then, then they'll wonder, what did they give him that money for,” he said laughing.
Parcells thing his big off seasoning will be on the field opening day. “I think he'll definitely be ready for San Diego. I'd like to get him some plays Thursday night if I can, but if I can't, I can't,” said Parcells. “I mean, its not like he hasn't played in the league before, but I would like him to get some if he can.”
Getting back on the field will allow Ferguson to get off the stationary bike. “Yeah yeah, I've got the lance Armstrong jokes, they've been killing me,” he said.
Ferguson knows how to play football, that's the issue, but he hasn't played any in Dallas, and playing at least a few plays in the last preseason game should put him and his teammates at ease. At least, Parcells hopes that happens.
Cowboys Head Coach Bill Parcells said “We're going to work him out in pads before the practice today, and we'll see how he does. He's doing better. But I don't want to set him back either.”
For Ferguson, it will be his last chance to try and get on the field with the Cowboys, before the season starts. But if he can't play Thursday, Ferguson says, he isn't worried one bit.
“I’m a football player,” he said, “so that's all I've been doing. I’ve learned how to cover plays where I'm at. So if it takes that long, (until the season opener) I'm hoping it won't, but if it takes that long, I think I'll be fine.”
Ferguson was drafted by Parcells in 1997, and wanted him back to anchor his defense, signing a 5-year contract, with a 9-million dollar bonus.
The last time we saw him on the field, before today, was training camp in Oxnard, California. His ankle injury has kept him from playing a single play in preseason, yet he will not doubt himself.
“Naw naw, I won't have any doubt. If I'm taking that field, I'm taking it knowing what's at stake. I'm definitely not looking down, looking back. What if I step wrong, you can't go out then, then they'll wonder, what did they give him that money for,” he said laughing.
Parcells thing his big off seasoning will be on the field opening day. “I think he'll definitely be ready for San Diego. I'd like to get him some plays Thursday night if I can, but if I can't, I can't,” said Parcells. “I mean, its not like he hasn't played in the league before, but I would like him to get some if he can.”
Getting back on the field will allow Ferguson to get off the stationary bike. “Yeah yeah, I've got the lance Armstrong jokes, they've been killing me,” he said.
Ferguson knows how to play football, that's the issue, but he hasn't played any in Dallas, and playing at least a few plays in the last preseason game should put him and his teammates at ease. At least, Parcells hopes that happens.
Sunday, August 28, 2005
Preseason Woe's
Cowboys Head Coach Bill Parcells knows his team made some improvement Saturday night, but he also knows, they're still not ready for primetime just yet.
“I'm happy we could win,” says Parcells. “I did see some good things, but we've got a lot of work to do. I'm not under an illusions about anything, here.”
Drew Bledsoe was 11-of-18 for 113 yards, including 8-straight completions. The stretch included an 80-yard drive, the free agent quarterbacks first good drive of preseason, his second 80-yard drive in preseason.
“I was going to play them the same amount of time,” says Parcells. Whether they got anything going or not, so we finally got started a little bit.”
But 0-for-7 on third down conversions, under Bledsoe's leadership remains a dark spot.
“We're still not near where we want to be on third own, its something that we talked about and worked on extensively this past week, and obviously we have some work to do there,” said Bledsoe. “One of the important things is we've got to be in third and shortage yardage situations. If we're going to get to where we want to be, our third down percentage, offensively, has to come up a lot.”
Julius Jones averaged a cool 5-yards per carry in 10-attempts, and scored on a 21-yard touchdown, but he is also getting so cool that he can't stop long enough to talk about it.
On his way out the door, Jones said, “We needed that man, we need that, we needed to go out and show ah what we can do, just prove to ourselves that we can get it done, early, alright,” as he escaped out the door.
Patrick Crayton averaged 21-yards per catch, while Quincy Morgan is trying to earn the back up spot to Keyshawn Johnson. Morgan dropped a pass near the goal line in the third, but redeemed himself with a touchdown in the fourth.
“I told the guys, now I can enjoy my off day a little bit,” said Morgan. I might have gone home and done something to myself if I wouldn't have gotten that play. I'm glad i was able to come back. I think the coaches even called that so i could redeem myself.”
Tony Romo continued to improve his stock as Bledsoe's backup, leading the team to twice as many touchdowns as the first team, but he’s not ready to accept the backup position.
“That’s not for me to decide, just trying to get better,” said Romo. Whatever the coaches feel is best for this team.”
Defensively, one thing has become very obvious. Dallas has improved at Safety, with Roy Williams's resurgence, and the additions at cornerback, seems to have made Terrence Newman a better player as well.
Anthony Henry, who was signed a free agent cornerback said, “I feel like I understand and realize why we put in a new defense. I think we came together fairly quickly, although we do have some things we do need to work on. I feel like we're going to have a pretty solid defense.”
Aaron Glenn, who joined the team as free agent cornerback along with Henry, will play the nickel primarily. “They have a bunch of explosive guys over there, says Glenn, “and for us to go out there and hold those guys, I think they had 52-yards or whatever when we came out, so that was, upbeat.”
But as the defense improved, special teams didn't exactly win Parcells heart.
“Ha, because we gave up a kick off return and missed a field goal, I would rate it superb, Parcells said sarcastically. “We didn't have a real good group out there, but there is still no excuse for it, don't get me wrong, but we did work on that mayday field goal. I think the snap was good, the hold was good, and ah, we just didn't kick it.”
This is a team that has an under developed offense, key injuries on defense, and lapses on special teams. It is only preseason, but preseason is about to run out. Dallas will play their last preseason game Thursday night.
“I'm happy we could win,” says Parcells. “I did see some good things, but we've got a lot of work to do. I'm not under an illusions about anything, here.”
Drew Bledsoe was 11-of-18 for 113 yards, including 8-straight completions. The stretch included an 80-yard drive, the free agent quarterbacks first good drive of preseason, his second 80-yard drive in preseason.
“I was going to play them the same amount of time,” says Parcells. Whether they got anything going or not, so we finally got started a little bit.”
But 0-for-7 on third down conversions, under Bledsoe's leadership remains a dark spot.
“We're still not near where we want to be on third own, its something that we talked about and worked on extensively this past week, and obviously we have some work to do there,” said Bledsoe. “One of the important things is we've got to be in third and shortage yardage situations. If we're going to get to where we want to be, our third down percentage, offensively, has to come up a lot.”
Julius Jones averaged a cool 5-yards per carry in 10-attempts, and scored on a 21-yard touchdown, but he is also getting so cool that he can't stop long enough to talk about it.
On his way out the door, Jones said, “We needed that man, we need that, we needed to go out and show ah what we can do, just prove to ourselves that we can get it done, early, alright,” as he escaped out the door.
Patrick Crayton averaged 21-yards per catch, while Quincy Morgan is trying to earn the back up spot to Keyshawn Johnson. Morgan dropped a pass near the goal line in the third, but redeemed himself with a touchdown in the fourth.
“I told the guys, now I can enjoy my off day a little bit,” said Morgan. I might have gone home and done something to myself if I wouldn't have gotten that play. I'm glad i was able to come back. I think the coaches even called that so i could redeem myself.”
Tony Romo continued to improve his stock as Bledsoe's backup, leading the team to twice as many touchdowns as the first team, but he’s not ready to accept the backup position.
“That’s not for me to decide, just trying to get better,” said Romo. Whatever the coaches feel is best for this team.”
Defensively, one thing has become very obvious. Dallas has improved at Safety, with Roy Williams's resurgence, and the additions at cornerback, seems to have made Terrence Newman a better player as well.
Anthony Henry, who was signed a free agent cornerback said, “I feel like I understand and realize why we put in a new defense. I think we came together fairly quickly, although we do have some things we do need to work on. I feel like we're going to have a pretty solid defense.”
Aaron Glenn, who joined the team as free agent cornerback along with Henry, will play the nickel primarily. “They have a bunch of explosive guys over there, says Glenn, “and for us to go out there and hold those guys, I think they had 52-yards or whatever when we came out, so that was, upbeat.”
But as the defense improved, special teams didn't exactly win Parcells heart.
“Ha, because we gave up a kick off return and missed a field goal, I would rate it superb, Parcells said sarcastically. “We didn't have a real good group out there, but there is still no excuse for it, don't get me wrong, but we did work on that mayday field goal. I think the snap was good, the hold was good, and ah, we just didn't kick it.”
This is a team that has an under developed offense, key injuries on defense, and lapses on special teams. It is only preseason, but preseason is about to run out. Dallas will play their last preseason game Thursday night.
Friday, August 26, 2005
Decisions Decisions
Almost one month after the start of training camp, Bill Parcells admits he is still faced with lots of player personnel decisions. Overall, he says, he’s behind in getting his team together.
“Yeah, I'm a little behind,” says Parcells, “and I am behind because of the uncertainy that I have in several areas. That's just being honest.”
Saturday night, Dallas will play its third preseason game, a game usually designed to sort out final details about the teams personnel, but since he is running behind, this year may be different.
“I haven’t had the preparation time,” says Parcells, referring to the short week this week. Dallas played in Seattle on Monday night.
There are plenty of areas that need improvement, and it starts with the offense.
“You got to continue to just keep, you know, just plucking away at it,” says wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson. “Hopefully this week against Houston, we'll do a little bit more offensively.”
Drew Bledsoe's back up has yet to be determined, but it appears that Tony Romo has the inside track over Drew Henson.
At wide receiver, Quincy Morgan's stock appears to have dropped, thanks to the emergence of Patrick Crayton, who has quickly become a Parcells favorite.
Says Morgan, “Its nothing, its not a big deal, its nothing to get blown out of proportion at all.”
Parcells is a bit more sarcastic. “Morgan will get more chances this week to play, and ah, I'm sure he's worried.”
When asked if Crayton already feels like the number three receiver on the team behind Keyshawn Johnson and Terry Glenn, Crayton says, “No, not at all. I'll wait until September 11th when we play San Diego, before I can even say that to myself.
What all this means is that the final two preseason games are important. Are they more important than in previous years, who knows. But the final cut down date, September 4th, will be here in a hurry.
“Yeah, I'm a little behind,” says Parcells, “and I am behind because of the uncertainy that I have in several areas. That's just being honest.”
Saturday night, Dallas will play its third preseason game, a game usually designed to sort out final details about the teams personnel, but since he is running behind, this year may be different.
“I haven’t had the preparation time,” says Parcells, referring to the short week this week. Dallas played in Seattle on Monday night.
There are plenty of areas that need improvement, and it starts with the offense.
“You got to continue to just keep, you know, just plucking away at it,” says wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson. “Hopefully this week against Houston, we'll do a little bit more offensively.”
Drew Bledsoe's back up has yet to be determined, but it appears that Tony Romo has the inside track over Drew Henson.
At wide receiver, Quincy Morgan's stock appears to have dropped, thanks to the emergence of Patrick Crayton, who has quickly become a Parcells favorite.
Says Morgan, “Its nothing, its not a big deal, its nothing to get blown out of proportion at all.”
Parcells is a bit more sarcastic. “Morgan will get more chances this week to play, and ah, I'm sure he's worried.”
When asked if Crayton already feels like the number three receiver on the team behind Keyshawn Johnson and Terry Glenn, Crayton says, “No, not at all. I'll wait until September 11th when we play San Diego, before I can even say that to myself.
What all this means is that the final two preseason games are important. Are they more important than in previous years, who knows. But the final cut down date, September 4th, will be here in a hurry.
Thursday, August 25, 2005
Search for Right Tackle
The Cowboys had two practices at Valley Ranch Thursday, one day after they cut right tackle last years second round draft pick Jacob Rogers. It was their first day outside, in the Texas heat, since returning from Oxnard, California.
Dallas is still looking for a right tackle. Will it be Rob Petitti, Torrin Tucker or Kurt Vollers? Who knows.
Tucker and Vollers have a combined 26-starts in the NFL, which may make it tougher for Petitti to get the job.
Says Parcells, “Well I don't know that I could ever feel, a hundred percent confident in starting any rookie, to start the season. And I don't know that he will start. I really don't. But that's the way it is right now.”
Petitti was the teams second pick in the 6th round, and the 209th player taken overall. He doesn't think its his job to lose just yet, but he knows he would rather start than be a backup. Of course, Rogers had the job, but according to the Cowboys, couldn’t handle the pain or the injuries.
“It is hard, but like I said, guys have helped me out,” says Petitti. “I've just got to study my book. I'm starting to learn how to watch film, what to look for, but there's a lot of things that I'm starting to realize I have to do that I didn't have to do in college.”
Tucker knows its a matter of pride every time he takes the field and would like to add to his 14-starts in two seasons.
“Its always a matter of pride when you step out here on the football field,” says Tucker, “because its you and him. Either your going to win on that play, or he is going to win at that play.”
The right tackle spot has been an issue all through training camp. It hasn't been settle yet, and the release of Jacob Rogers has taken competition at that spot in a whole new direction. There’s a chance Larry Allen might still be moved, but that would open up the middle, and give Drew Bledsoe less protection in the pocket.
Just another day at training camp.
Dallas is still looking for a right tackle. Will it be Rob Petitti, Torrin Tucker or Kurt Vollers? Who knows.
Tucker and Vollers have a combined 26-starts in the NFL, which may make it tougher for Petitti to get the job.
Says Parcells, “Well I don't know that I could ever feel, a hundred percent confident in starting any rookie, to start the season. And I don't know that he will start. I really don't. But that's the way it is right now.”
Petitti was the teams second pick in the 6th round, and the 209th player taken overall. He doesn't think its his job to lose just yet, but he knows he would rather start than be a backup. Of course, Rogers had the job, but according to the Cowboys, couldn’t handle the pain or the injuries.
“It is hard, but like I said, guys have helped me out,” says Petitti. “I've just got to study my book. I'm starting to learn how to watch film, what to look for, but there's a lot of things that I'm starting to realize I have to do that I didn't have to do in college.”
Tucker knows its a matter of pride every time he takes the field and would like to add to his 14-starts in two seasons.
“Its always a matter of pride when you step out here on the football field,” says Tucker, “because its you and him. Either your going to win on that play, or he is going to win at that play.”
The right tackle spot has been an issue all through training camp. It hasn't been settle yet, and the release of Jacob Rogers has taken competition at that spot in a whole new direction. There’s a chance Larry Allen might still be moved, but that would open up the middle, and give Drew Bledsoe less protection in the pocket.
Just another day at training camp.
Monday, August 22, 2005
Another Parcells Guy
For the second straight year, Bill Parcells has surrounded himself with a familiar face at quarterback.
No, its not Vinny Testaverde. This time around, it’s Drew Bledsoe. For Parcells, now in his third year with the Dallas Cowboys, it represents familiar territory.
“We want to go back and be a good game manager, try to avoid the bad play, be a good decision maker, and just reiterate the same things that I reiterated to you when you were a rookie player,” says Parcells in his conversations with Bledsoe. “That's really what I said to him. That's the way I want you to start.”
Bledsoe certainly brings a lot of things to this team, but one thing Parcells doesn't talk about much is his own comfort zone. It seems, every time he brings in a player he has worked with before, he appears more comfortable, and maybe that's really what all these old quarterbacks are about.
“Bill and I understand each other very well,” says Bledsoe. “We worked together before. The first think that he wants out of the quarterback position is for me to play the game in a way where I first and foremost, don't screw it up,” he says laughingly, “which is exactly the way he would put it.”
Still, no one is perfect, but Parcells believes, adding experience takes away some of the uncertainty, even if he wants Bledsoe to start at square one. But regardless of age, it marks the third straight year that Dallas will have a different starter at quarterback.
“I think he can make all the throws, when he was young he could make all the throws,” says Parcells confidently. “I think there are several quarterbacks in the league that can do that. For one reason or another, something just keeps him from, and it might be the people around him, but I think drew has had a solid career. “He has played winning football, on winning teams, and I think he's at the point where he realizes, this isn't going to go on forever. I think he wants to finish on a good note. I really believe that very much.”
Wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson likes what the Cowboys did during the off season, by adding a vetran quarterback, but he's adjusting to Bledsoe as well. In fact, during his 10-year career, Bledsoe will be Johnson's 12th different quarterback.
“I'm pretty excited, its a plus,” says Johnson. “You have a guy who has the ability to be one of the better quarterbacks in this league, he has the ability to do a lot of good things, he's played in the super bowl before, he's been to a number of playoff games, he's been the captain of every ship, so, you know, all of those things are a plus.
Owner Jerry Jones, who spent more than 30-million dollars during the off season, signed Bledsoe to a three year contract. “We each know what we want to do,” he says. “He's the quarterback, he can put the ball out there for receivers, and he's gotten on me to kind of open the passing game for him. We kind of know that, but we have got a lot of work to do.”
“I think bill and are definitely linked together now,” says Bledsoe. “Now that we're together for the second time, and if this thing works out, its gonna be a great success for both of us, and if it doesn't, we'll be linked together on that side of it. I look forward to great success this time around.”
Testaverde spend just one season in a Dallas uniform. Bledsoe has a chance to be with the Cowboys three years, but only if he wins.
“What Vinny did is pretty special. He played at a high level, for a very long time, how long I play will depend entirely on what kind of success we're having, what kind of success I'm having, and whether I feel like I'm still playing at a level that meets my expectations.”
As for his relationship with Parcells this time around, Bledsoe doesn’t see much change.
“He's the same. He's still just looking for a chance to jump somebody,” says Bledsoe. “He looks for those coachable moments and then he jumps on those whenever he can. He's the same guy, people say he may have softened over the years, but I'm certainly not seeing that. I think he's the same guy that he always has been. He’s going to coach us and coach us hard, and demand greatness from the team, and that's been a successful winning formula for him for a long time.”
Bledsoe says he things the Cowboys are capable of winning a lot of games this year. He won’t predict a number. But if success can come his way in a Dallas uniform, so much the better.
“Its something that I'm very, very proud to be a part of,” he says. “When you play quarterback for the cowboys, it’s an honor. You've got a lot of hall of fame guys that came before you, so, its definitely a position where I feel that history and hopefully, when I'm done, I'll be a small part of that history
No, its not Vinny Testaverde. This time around, it’s Drew Bledsoe. For Parcells, now in his third year with the Dallas Cowboys, it represents familiar territory.
“We want to go back and be a good game manager, try to avoid the bad play, be a good decision maker, and just reiterate the same things that I reiterated to you when you were a rookie player,” says Parcells in his conversations with Bledsoe. “That's really what I said to him. That's the way I want you to start.”
Bledsoe certainly brings a lot of things to this team, but one thing Parcells doesn't talk about much is his own comfort zone. It seems, every time he brings in a player he has worked with before, he appears more comfortable, and maybe that's really what all these old quarterbacks are about.
“Bill and I understand each other very well,” says Bledsoe. “We worked together before. The first think that he wants out of the quarterback position is for me to play the game in a way where I first and foremost, don't screw it up,” he says laughingly, “which is exactly the way he would put it.”
Still, no one is perfect, but Parcells believes, adding experience takes away some of the uncertainty, even if he wants Bledsoe to start at square one. But regardless of age, it marks the third straight year that Dallas will have a different starter at quarterback.
“I think he can make all the throws, when he was young he could make all the throws,” says Parcells confidently. “I think there are several quarterbacks in the league that can do that. For one reason or another, something just keeps him from, and it might be the people around him, but I think drew has had a solid career. “He has played winning football, on winning teams, and I think he's at the point where he realizes, this isn't going to go on forever. I think he wants to finish on a good note. I really believe that very much.”
Wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson likes what the Cowboys did during the off season, by adding a vetran quarterback, but he's adjusting to Bledsoe as well. In fact, during his 10-year career, Bledsoe will be Johnson's 12th different quarterback.
“I'm pretty excited, its a plus,” says Johnson. “You have a guy who has the ability to be one of the better quarterbacks in this league, he has the ability to do a lot of good things, he's played in the super bowl before, he's been to a number of playoff games, he's been the captain of every ship, so, you know, all of those things are a plus.
Owner Jerry Jones, who spent more than 30-million dollars during the off season, signed Bledsoe to a three year contract. “We each know what we want to do,” he says. “He's the quarterback, he can put the ball out there for receivers, and he's gotten on me to kind of open the passing game for him. We kind of know that, but we have got a lot of work to do.”
“I think bill and are definitely linked together now,” says Bledsoe. “Now that we're together for the second time, and if this thing works out, its gonna be a great success for both of us, and if it doesn't, we'll be linked together on that side of it. I look forward to great success this time around.”
Testaverde spend just one season in a Dallas uniform. Bledsoe has a chance to be with the Cowboys three years, but only if he wins.
“What Vinny did is pretty special. He played at a high level, for a very long time, how long I play will depend entirely on what kind of success we're having, what kind of success I'm having, and whether I feel like I'm still playing at a level that meets my expectations.”
As for his relationship with Parcells this time around, Bledsoe doesn’t see much change.
“He's the same. He's still just looking for a chance to jump somebody,” says Bledsoe. “He looks for those coachable moments and then he jumps on those whenever he can. He's the same guy, people say he may have softened over the years, but I'm certainly not seeing that. I think he's the same guy that he always has been. He’s going to coach us and coach us hard, and demand greatness from the team, and that's been a successful winning formula for him for a long time.”
Bledsoe says he things the Cowboys are capable of winning a lot of games this year. He won’t predict a number. But if success can come his way in a Dallas uniform, so much the better.
“Its something that I'm very, very proud to be a part of,” he says. “When you play quarterback for the cowboys, it’s an honor. You've got a lot of hall of fame guys that came before you, so, its definitely a position where I feel that history and hopefully, when I'm done, I'll be a small part of that history
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