Cowboys Preview: Part I

Author: Roger Corralez

Here we are on the cusp of another season in Cowboy Country. With training camp in full swing, the ‘Boys are readying themselves for yet another run at a title. Everyone seems to be on the same page:  Play as a team toward one common goal; the super bowl.

Are they ready for the challenge? With a team in place to be just as good if not better and deeper than last year’s, I say they are. Barring a rash of serious injuries, this year’s Cowboys should compete among the best. Everyone seems intent on becoming the best player they can be and pushing each other toward that goal.

Will this be the year for Tony, Coach Wade and the boys? The season is just beginning. So let’s strap in for a long and interesting ride!

Offense

The Cowboys enter the season coming off an impressive 11-5 mark and a long awaited playoff win. They’ll need to continue on last years run to keep the bar moving forward. On offense, the same cast returns minus Flozell Adams. Returnee Doug Free should fill the LT slot. The receiving corps returns and also adds Dez Bryant from Oklahoma State to the mix. Bryant’s recently injured ankle potentially has him missing a game or two but he brings instant impact talent and depth to a solid lineup of targets for Tony Romo, including Miles Austin, Roy Williams, and Jason Witten.

Speaking of Romo, he seems to have grown into a consistent top-line starter and team leader. And his backfield of three is back. Look for Felix Jones, Marion Barber, and Tashard Choice to again split the running duties. If healthy, look for Jones to get more carries due to his play-maker status.

Defense

The defense comes off a strong 2009 showing and has all the key players returning. Mainstays such as DeMarcus Ware, Jay Ratliff, Bradie James, and Terrence Newman return. And with the emergence of players such as Mike Jenkins and Anthony Spencer, the Cowboys are talented and deep. Rookie linebackers Sean Lee and Brandon Williams look promising as well although playing time will be hard to come by with the depth of this linebacking corps.