Express-News Cowboys beat writer Tom Orsborn offers five moves the Cowboys should make in the coming months to prevent another season of mediocrity.
Upgrade the secondary: It lacks playmakers, can't cover the deep ball, tackles poorly and doesn't communicate well. Aging cornerback Terence Newman, who was awful in both losses to the Giants, must come under harsh, immediate scrutiny.
Revamp the offensive line: Center Phil Costa is among the worst at his position in the league, left guard Montrae Holland is a journeyman, left tackle Doug Free took a step backward after landing a lucrative, long-term deal, and right guard Kyle Kosier blew out a knee Sunday night. Begin with shifting right tackle Tyron Smith, who as a rookie was the club's best lineman, over to the left side.
Dump the dopes: Despite Jason Garrett's efforts to make the Cowboys a smarter team, they still committed way too many boneheaded mistakes and penalties. Why keep cornerback Alan Ball or others who don't know the rules?
Pursue pass rushers: Anthony Spencer failed to register a sack in the last four games and finished the season with only six. It's unacceptable that an outside linebacker who lines up opposite DeMarcus Ware should have such meager production.
Hire Tony Sparano: Garrett needs to swallow his pride, admit his shortcomings and convince owner Jerry Jones (left) to do everything possible to hire the hard-nosed Sparano to call plays for the offense and serve as assistant head coach.
Read more: http://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/...formula-for-success-2437545.php#ixzz1iP9BIy3e
Upgrade the secondary: It lacks playmakers, can't cover the deep ball, tackles poorly and doesn't communicate well. Aging cornerback Terence Newman, who was awful in both losses to the Giants, must come under harsh, immediate scrutiny.
Revamp the offensive line: Center Phil Costa is among the worst at his position in the league, left guard Montrae Holland is a journeyman, left tackle Doug Free took a step backward after landing a lucrative, long-term deal, and right guard Kyle Kosier blew out a knee Sunday night. Begin with shifting right tackle Tyron Smith, who as a rookie was the club's best lineman, over to the left side.
Dump the dopes: Despite Jason Garrett's efforts to make the Cowboys a smarter team, they still committed way too many boneheaded mistakes and penalties. Why keep cornerback Alan Ball or others who don't know the rules?
Pursue pass rushers: Anthony Spencer failed to register a sack in the last four games and finished the season with only six. It's unacceptable that an outside linebacker who lines up opposite DeMarcus Ware should have such meager production.
Hire Tony Sparano: Garrett needs to swallow his pride, admit his shortcomings and convince owner Jerry Jones (left) to do everything possible to hire the hard-nosed Sparano to call plays for the offense and serve as assistant head coach.
Read more: http://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/...formula-for-success-2437545.php#ixzz1iP9BIy3e