Sunday, September 7, 2008

Week 1 Recap - @ Cleveland

BROWNS DOWN... 15 MORE TO GO...

If there was any worry or doubt that The Cowboys were overhyped heading into Cleveland, it was quickly squashed once the game got going. The 'Boys won in convincing fashion, beating The Browns 28-10. The injuries to Kyle Kosier, Sam Hurd, Miles Austin, Anthony Spencer and Terrance Newman made little difference in this match-up. Adam Jones starting in Newman's place, however, did cause a crucial pass interference call in the end zone which led to the Browns' only touchdown. We'll have to see if Newman will be ready to play any downs next week, I imagine if he is, it will be limited.

Tony Romo played an impressive game going 24/32 for 320 yards, a touchdown and an interception. He even took a helmet to the chin which caused a lot of blood to gush and a makeshift bandage had to be applied. He connected with 7 receivers, putting to rest the Wide Receiver concerns.

Felix Jones proved his worth during his first game by taking 9 carries for 62 yards and a touchdown. Marion Barber lead the rushing charge with 16 carries for 80 yards and 2 touchdowns, but left late in the 3rd quarter with 'bruised ribs,' it is unknown the extent of this injury, I'm certainly keeping an eye out for new info.

Jason Witten, Terrell Owens and Patrick Crayton averaged about 5 catches each and 88 yards on average, and Isaiah Stanback, who was questionable for today's game also had 2 catches for 24 yards, which included a critical first down reception. Nick Folk was a perfect 4/4 on extra points and no need to even attempt a field goal, which we know he can handle quite well.

The main problem I see and it has plaqued this team on and off for the past three years or so are the penalties. Stupid penalties over and over.

Ok, so I expect a Flozell Adams false start every now and then and T.O. getting 15 off the kickoff for a celebration, that's all forgivable, but the holding and pass interference calls are making me sick already. This game saw Dallas piling up 11 penalties for 82 yards, which included two or more penalties on 3rd down giving The Browns a steady drive when our Defense could've been back on the bench.

Thankfully there's room to grow in most every aspect, and with injured players getting healthy and Dallas finding their rhythm, there's great potential for this team. If they don't lose focus, can commit less penalties and stay as healthy as possible, this team will make a great run. Next week Dallas goes back home to host The Philadelphia Eagles on Monday Night, so until then... YEE HAA!!
P.S.

In other NFL News. There were a lot of things that happened this opening weekend that caused waves. Atlanta upset Detroit 34 to 21, Philadelphia absolutely dismantled The Rams 38 to 3 and Carolina also upset San Diego in the last two seconds of play 26 to 24. Brett Favre impressively led The New York Jets to victory over Miami 20 to 14, and Roscoe Parrish of The Bills ran back a kick-off against Seattle, as they rolled past The Seahawks, 34-10.

The biggest news however revolves around The New England Patriots. They had the best record of last season winning every game in the regular season and the playoffs, but then falling victim to The Giants in The Super Bowl. People asked if they might step into this season with a Super Bowl hangover, and fumble the season away in desperate fashion. Some contended they would easily make it to The Super Bowl yet again and reclaim their dynasty.

Many of those hopeful people's wishes dissappeared before the second quarter even began as Tom Brady, superstar quarterback was hit low as he was throwing a pass to Randy Moss. Obviously in pain and needing to be helped off the field, Brady immediately went to the locker room to get checked out and did not return the entire game. It now appears that Tom Brady will be out the whole season having had a major knee injury. The full details have not been released as of yet, but this puts in question the future of The New England Patriots. They did still manage a win of 17 to 10 against Kansas City (which isn't the biggest victory there could be,) but will Matt Cassell have what it takes to lead this team to the playoffs.... I guess he'll have to be.

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