Dallas Cowboys 2011 Mid-Season Report Card
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The Dallas Cowboys stand at 4-4 midway through the 2011 season. While this is very close to what was predicted prior to the start of the season, it feels much worse because the Cowboys should be sitting on top of the division with a 6-2 record. Two epic 4th quarter failures, each the worst in the 51 year team history, have dampened this season. The Cowboys will need to win 6 of the 8 games remaining to have a legitimate shot at the division title and/or the playoffs.
Grading the ‘Boys:
At quarterback, Tony Romo has shown the ability to make big plays, both good and bad. He can look brilliant one week in leading the team to a come-from-behind victory, then look foolish the next week by giving the game away. It has long been known that Romo idolized Brett Favre, now his play takes on Favre’s tendency to be erratic. The Cowboys need to accept Romo for what he is and learn when to let him loose and when to reign him in. The Cowboys rank 7th in passing yards, but only 18th in points scored. Romo’s QB rating of 92.2 is acceptable, but not at the level of a superstar. Grade – C+
The running game has been a bright spot for Cowboys fans. Dallas has 3 running backs who are all averaging over 4 yards per carry. An injury to Felix Jones turned out to be a blessing for the Cowboys in the sense that DeMarco Murray was given more playing time. Murray already has set records for the Cowboys and
appears to be able to perform on a weekly basis. Murray is averaging 6.7 yards per attempt. The only problem may be that Dallas is a pass-first offense. As Jones returns, more rushing plays will need to be called to get both Jones and Murray enough touches. Backup Phillip Tanner has shown he can be productive as well, averaging 4.7 yards on limited attempts. Grade – A
The receiving core is injury-prone. Both Austin Miles and Dez Bryant have missed significant time with injuries. New addition Laurent Robinson has filled in nicely, and tight end Jason Witten is still the clutch receiver, leading the team in both catches and yards. 2nd tight end Martellus Bennett still has shown nothing positive. Grade – C
Defensive coordinator Rob Ryan came to the team with much hype and swagger. After the media practically ran defensive master Wade Phillips out of town, much was expected of the flashy Ryan style of play. In the first half of the season, the results are much the same as they were under Phillips. Dallas has had major defensive melt-downs, and has been embarrassed in 3 of the 8 games.
The defensive line has been decent, but not spectacular. Jay Ratliff at nose tackle has been the most consistent performer. Grade – C
The linebackers are the heart of the Dallas defense. DeMarcus Ware is one of the best in the NFL and, for the most part, is playing like an All-Pro. Ware has 12 sacks and 2 fumble recoveries. Sean Lee has been a playmaker for the team, leading the team in tackles and interceptions. Brady James and Anthony Spencer have played well, but don’t look for them in the Pro Bowl. Grade – A-
The secondary was a concern going into the season. In many ways, this group has actually exceeded expectations on the field. The problem is the expectations were low. This group has played decent, no one can be expected to cover a professional receiver when the quarterback has all day to wait on an opening. Gerald Sensabaugh has been playing at a higher level than anyone expected. Grade – B
Overall, the defense has been average, they have shown improvement in takeaways, but give up too many 3rd down conversions. The defensive statisticas are all middle of the pack. If this group could improve on 3rd down, the Cowboys would be significantly better. Grade – C
The special teams also earns a grade of C. Even with 2 kickers on the roster, the Cowboys give up a lot of return yardage. David Buehler has been injured most of the season, and even when he returned, his kicks have not had the distance he needs. Dan Bailey has been great as a field goal artist. Bailey has made 20 of 21 field goal attempts, including 19 straight. Matt McBriar was averaging almost 50 yards per punt until he also got injured. Grade – A
Overall, I have to give the Cowboys a grade of C. They will need to play consistently better in the second half of the season to be considered a top-level team.
