Week 4 Recap - vs. Washington

Ugh... 'Skins 26 - 'Boys 24

Nothing was working right against this amped up Washington Redskins team. The Cowboys' defense gave up way too many yards and 3rd down conversions. The offense couldn't convert enough 3rd downs. The refs missed some obvious Redskins' penalties, and for some reason the coaches decided to forget about the running game.

The whole game was ugly. Perhaps after doing so well the first three games, they were due a loss. Maybe they were too arrogant, after easily defeating Green Bay and coming into this game as 11 1/2 point favorites. Could it have been beginner's luck for Jim Zorn coaching his first Cowboys' rivalry game. Whatever it was, it needs to be corrected if this team wants a true chance at the playoffs.

Divisional games always have a bit more intensity it seems, especially within the NFC East. I certainly didn't expect Dallas to sweep all 6 Division games, but there were mistakes that occured during this game that shouldn't have ever happened. Number one thing I will complain about until it changes is forcing turnovers. Not one interception to date. Unacceptable. The defense also needs to better protect against big plays in the secondary. They gave up one too many 20+ yard passing plays for me to stomach.

The offense isn't bad, but there were things not utilized this game. T.O. may been looked toward too often, Miles Austin, not enough. The lack of running was absolutely foolish. I don't know if Felix Jones had any touches on offense, and Barber wasn't given enough of a shot before they went right back to passing. There was a huge lack of balance, and I have to blame the coaches for at least 75% of this loss.

All in all, it's one game, it's only week 4 and hopefully this loss will humble The 'Boys a bit and get them to refocus quickly. The next stretch of games will hopefully better prepare us as we host Cincinnati, then go on the road to Arizona and St. Louis.

This was the last time Dallas welcomed The Redskins to Texas Stadium and they are handed a dissapointing defeat. After the last two Washington games, I hope they have revenge on their minds come November 16.

Next week, Dallas will invite the winless Cincinnati Bengals to Irving, and try their best to avoid a trip to the basement of the NFC East. Will Cincinnati be due a win? Will Carson Palmer still be sidelined for next week? Will The Cowboys shake off this ugly loss and be back on track to take control of the NFC? We shall see.