2008 NFL Preview > Dallas Cowboys Preview

2008 Dallas Cowboys Football Preview

Head Coach: Wade Phillips

2007 Record: 13-3

Key Additions: TE Martellus Bennett, CB Mike Jenkins, CB Adam “Pacman” Jones, RB Felix Jones, ILB Zach Thomas

Key Losses: ILB Akin Ayodele, S Keith Davis, WR Terry Glenn, TE Anthony Fasano, NT Jason Ferguson, RB Julius Jones, CB Nathan Jones, CB Jacques Reeves

The Cowboys followed up their 13-3 regular season with another clunker in the playoffs, falling to the eventual Super Bowl champion Giants 21-17. Tony Romo’s postseason performance against New York did not measure up to his sterling play throughout the season, although the same could be said for Tom Brady and the Patriots when they later faced the Giants daunting defensive line. Nonetheless, the onus is now on Romo to demonstrate that he can handle the pressure of the playoffs or else risk being labeled a dreaded a choke artist, one of the most debilitating tags that can be applied to a modern professional athlete. Perhaps some context is needed in the NFL’s what have you done for me lately credo however, as Romo is only entering his fourth season in the league, and only his third as the full time starter.

2008 Dallas Cowboys Offense:

Romo possesses all the tools one could ask for in a franchise quarterback. He’s big, accurate, throws the ball with velocity and is quite athletic for his size. While his leadership is not in question, Romo must still prove that he can win in pressure situations. The receiving corps returns minus Terry Glenn, who was cut in the offseason due to a lingering knee injury that has limited his effectiveness. His replacement will likely be Patrick Crayton, who must demonstrate that he will be able enough to prevent defenses from loading up on Terrell Owens. T.O. is back for his third season with the Cowboys, and his attitude has improved considerably since Wade Phillips became head coach. Fortunately for the Cowboys, Owens has shown no signs of slowing down despite turning 34 last December. Jason Witten accrued the best statistical season of his career in 2007, catching 96 passes for 1145 yards and 7 touchdowns. Marion Barber should continue to punish opposing defenders with his bruising, throwback style. Dallas might have actually upgraded over Julius Jones by selecting fleet of foot Arkansas running back Felix Jones in the first round. The Cowboys line is massive and physical and features former Pro Bowlers Flozell “the Hotel” Adams and Leonard Davis.

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2008 Dallas Cowboys Defense:

Dallas added cornerback Adam Jones in the offseason from the Tennesseee Titans in a controversial move, with Jerry Jones proving once again that he’s not afraid to take a chance on one of the NFL’s bad boys if he can play at a high level. The team also drafted South Florida cornerback Mike Jenkins in the first round, and the rookie corner should provide quality insurance in case Pacman resorts to his illicit past. Dallas also brought in former Dolphin Zach Thomas, who suffered from numerous concussions last season, usually a tell tale sign for a 35 year old linebacker that it may be time to retire. However, the Cowboys seem to be counting on Thomas to stay healthy this season. Hybrid linebacker DeMarcus Ware is one of the best pass rushers in the league, as evidenced by his 14 sacks last season. The defensive line was stout against the run last season and returns all three starters.

2008 Dallas Cowboys Special Teams:

The Cowboys bolstered their return game in the offseason with the acquisition of the Jones boys. Rookie Felix is looking to beat out incumbent kick returner Miles Austin and Pacman should overtake Patrick Crayton to become the primary punt returner. Nick Folk has developed into one of the most consistent kickers in the league, and punter Mat McBriar averaged 47.1 yards per punt in his fourth season.

2008 Dallas Cowboys Expectations:

Dallas appears to be the favorite to reach the Super Bowl in the NFC. On paper, they look like the most talented team in their conference. However, one must consider that Dallas plays in one of the toughest divisions in football, and will play six difficult games a year against the Giants, Eagles, and Redskins. When the playoffs come around, they cannot afford to falter or Wade Phillips may be looking for a new job.

2008 Dallas Cowboys Prediction: 1st place in the NFC East

By Glenn Katzman
ProFootball-fans.com Staff Writer

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