Cowboys 31, Titans 10

The Dallas Cowboys opened their new home stadium with a 31-10 pre- season rout of the Tennessee Titans.  Though a preseason game, both teams and the crowd had energy that made it feel like a game with meaning.

The Cowboys played with enthusiasm, showing the ability to make big plays when needed. The starting offense played the first half, scoring 2 touchdowns, and getting close for another when the drive was stalled by, what else, an offensive line penalty.

Defensively, the Cowboys played well, only giving up 1 long drive.

But the real focus of the game was the stadium.  The sparkling new 1.2 billion dollar house of Jerry.  Much has been said about this building, and many questions were finally answered.  By far, the most talked about aspect of the game was the giant HD video screens which hover over the field, stretching from the 20 yard line to the 20 yard line. From the fan’s perspective, the screens are amazing, you can’t help but look at it and be amazed. Never again will someone be able to say “I can see the game better at home.” 

The video screens also stirred up some controversy, even called a problem by ESPN’s Chris Mortenson. The Titan’s punter, A.J. Trapasso, hit the screen, causing the Titans to challenge the play and eventually replay the down. 

With all the hype of the game, though, it was still only a preseason game. Noticeably absent were the famous Ring of Honor and the Cowboy’s star on the 50 yard line. These items are saved for the first regular season game. Funny thing is, the ticket prices are the same as the regular season, why aren’t the fans getting all the amenities?

The Party Pass area seemed to work well for the Cowboys, these standing room only tickets allow tens of thousands more people come to the stadium.  There are observation decks in the end zones for these fans, and it was a very popular area. 

One complaint for the evening was with the sound from the PA system. It was just too darn loud. It wasn’t bad for the game announcer, but the extra multi-media presentations were overwhelming.  Just like those television commercials that seem to be twice as loud as the show you are watching.

All in all, Jerry Jones must be smiling, his team played well and his house was impressive.