Scouting Report for Chicago Bears (2-1) vs. Dallas Cowboys (2-1)
October 1, 2012- Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, TX
Bears: Chicago managed a 23-6 victory over the Rams last week. To say the least, the defense has done what it could. The offense, however, has been shaky at best.
Jay Cutler had a decent outing (17-31 183 YDS and 1 INT). He found Brandon Marshall 5 times for 71 yards. Despite 55 yards rushing from Michael Bush, Bush did score the only offensive touchdown. Defensively, the Rams Stephen Jackson only managed a paltry 29 yards. Sam Bradford was sacked 6 times and picked off twice. Including Major Wright's 45 yard return for a touchdown.
Cowboys: After splitting a pair of road games to start the season, the Boys got a 16-10 victory over the Buccaneers last Sunday. That game could've and should've been a loss. However, Dallas is a good enough to get away with those kind of performances.
Tony Romo (25-39 283 YDS) turned the ball over 3 times the whole game. He was picked off by Aqib Talib on the game's first drive. Then he had two fumbles (both were results of overturned calls). Luckily, the Buccaneers could only muster 7 points. DeMarco Murray scored the first rushing touchdown of the season in the first quarter. Sean Lee also gave the Cowboys their first interception in the second quarter. Anthony Spencer had 7 tackles and DeMarcus Ware both sacks on Josh Freeman.
What to watch for: This game has some history that could decide the outcome. Besides Cutler and Marshall being teammates in Denver (2006-08), there is another person involved during that same time period. DC Rob Ryan was with the Raiders and should bring some insight. The last time Cutler faced off against Ryan was in 2009 when Ryan was the DC in Cleveland (30-6 Bears). Cutler is 3-2 all-time. However, Cutler has only completed 56.4% of his passes for 1212 YDS, 5 TDS and 7 INTS.
Conclusion: This game looks like it is too close to call on paper. But, the offense that can score the first touchdown should be able to win the game. The Cowboys had 13 penalties enforced on them for a total of 105 yards. 9 of those penalties were either false starts (6) or offensive holding. If the Cowboys O-Line can stop shooting themselves in the foot and get the ball to Miles Austin, Dez Bryant, Kevin Ogletree and Jason Witten, the Boys should blow the Bears back to the Windy City.
The Bears should hope for Matt Forte to return. Forte is a game time decision, but if he is good to go, then him and Bush should help take the pressure off Cutler. Not only would a healthy dose of the run game be good for the inconsistent O-Line, it could keep Dallas' 19th ranked rush defense on the field.
Prediction: Cowboys by 16
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Sunday, September 30, 2012
Friday, September 28, 2012
TCU @ SMU
Scouting Report for TCU Horned Frogs(3-0) vs. SMU Mustangs (1-2)
September 29, 2012- Gerald Ford Stadium, University Park,TX
TCU: The Horned Frogs have had some quality wins to start against struggling offenses this season. There was Grambling State of the FCS. Then came Kansas and their chemistry issues. And then there's the QB situation with Virginia last week. They'll have a shot at another struggling quarterback when they head across the Metroplex.
Last week against the Cavaliers (27-7 win), the Frogs had a great game across the board. Casey Pachall was his usual self (21-32, 305 YDS, 3 TD and 1 INT) and Josh Boykin became TCU's all time receiving TD leader with 18 in the second quarter. Brandon Carter was also a factor when he caught 5 passes for 128 YDS and a touchdown. Kenny Cain had a great game on the defensive end with 2 INTs. The Cavalier offense didn't look confident all game long under QB Mike Rocco. The defense allowed their 1st touchddown of the season when Philip Sims spelled Rocco in the 4th quarter.
SMU: With the bye coming last week, the Mustangs should be prepared to face the high powered Horned Frogs. Especially since they've had time to digest their ugly 48-3 loss to Texas A&M back in week 3.
The good news was that the Ponies held the Aggies scoreless in the first quarter. Margus Hunt blocked an extra point and recorded his first sack of the season. But Garrett Gilbert (23-49, 203 YDS 1 INT) wasn't able to put together any scoring drives. Zach Line rushed for 104 yards on 16 carries. The SMU defense was nowhere to be found as Johnny Manziell had 418 all purpose yards and 6 TDS (4 passing).
What to watch for: The only way for SMU to keep this game close is for Gilbert to showcase his running ability. In the games against Baylor and Texas A&M, those defenses were able to get pressure on him when he was in the pocket. Especially with TCU's high power defense coming to town. The Horned Frogs allowed 169 yards on the ground last week and Line shouldn't be the only one handling the load.
Conclusion: Last year, the Ponies beat the Frogs 40-33 for the Iron Skillet. Two things to remember in that one. First, TCU came from behind to force overtime. And second, had Carter made that catch, then who knows. But this is a different season and both teams are going in different directions. This game has potential of being another thriller from last year, but that's all going to depend on Gilbert's decision making.
Prediction: TCU by 21.
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September 29, 2012- Gerald Ford Stadium, University Park,TX
TCU: The Horned Frogs have had some quality wins to start against struggling offenses this season. There was Grambling State of the FCS. Then came Kansas and their chemistry issues. And then there's the QB situation with Virginia last week. They'll have a shot at another struggling quarterback when they head across the Metroplex.
Last week against the Cavaliers (27-7 win), the Frogs had a great game across the board. Casey Pachall was his usual self (21-32, 305 YDS, 3 TD and 1 INT) and Josh Boykin became TCU's all time receiving TD leader with 18 in the second quarter. Brandon Carter was also a factor when he caught 5 passes for 128 YDS and a touchdown. Kenny Cain had a great game on the defensive end with 2 INTs. The Cavalier offense didn't look confident all game long under QB Mike Rocco. The defense allowed their 1st touchddown of the season when Philip Sims spelled Rocco in the 4th quarter.
SMU: With the bye coming last week, the Mustangs should be prepared to face the high powered Horned Frogs. Especially since they've had time to digest their ugly 48-3 loss to Texas A&M back in week 3.
The good news was that the Ponies held the Aggies scoreless in the first quarter. Margus Hunt blocked an extra point and recorded his first sack of the season. But Garrett Gilbert (23-49, 203 YDS 1 INT) wasn't able to put together any scoring drives. Zach Line rushed for 104 yards on 16 carries. The SMU defense was nowhere to be found as Johnny Manziell had 418 all purpose yards and 6 TDS (4 passing).
What to watch for: The only way for SMU to keep this game close is for Gilbert to showcase his running ability. In the games against Baylor and Texas A&M, those defenses were able to get pressure on him when he was in the pocket. Especially with TCU's high power defense coming to town. The Horned Frogs allowed 169 yards on the ground last week and Line shouldn't be the only one handling the load.
Conclusion: Last year, the Ponies beat the Frogs 40-33 for the Iron Skillet. Two things to remember in that one. First, TCU came from behind to force overtime. And second, had Carter made that catch, then who knows. But this is a different season and both teams are going in different directions. This game has potential of being another thriller from last year, but that's all going to depend on Gilbert's decision making.
Prediction: TCU by 21.
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North Texas @ Florida Atlantic
Scouting Report for North Texas Mean Green (1-3) vs. Florida Atlantic Owls(1-3)
September 29, 2012- FAU Stadium, Boca Raton, FL
North Texas: If there was anything that would drive coach Dan McCarney crazy about the game against Troy (14-7 defeat), it would be all the missed opportunities. Especially missed opportunities that could've won the game.
The Mean Green offense (422 total yards) out gained the Trojans by 40 yards. Ivan Delgado and Brelan Chancellor were accountable for Derek Thompson's 12 completions(16 incomplete) and 133 yards (236 total). Brandon Byrd and Antoinne Jimmerson had 131 combined yards on the ground (186 total). After Thompson's 50 YD TD pass to Chancellor in the first quarter, the offense couldn't capitalize after moving the ball well. Zach Olen missed 2 FG's from 40 and 47 (both wide left) and Zach Paul missed an easy 27 yarder (wide right) to give Troy their first conference win.
Florida Atlantic: Alabama may be beatable, but the Owls were definitely not going to be that team. While they did avoid a shutout at Bryant-Denny Stadium, giving up 40 points to the defending national champs is not something to be smiling about.
The game was over by the 3rd play of the game when Crimson Tide QB A.J. McCarron hit Kenny Bell on 85 YD touchdown reception. The Owls first touchdown came with 2:49 remaining when Alex DeLeon caught a TD pass from 6 yards out. The Owls did recover a Christion Jones fumble (Tim Raber recovered) to extend their second possesion, but that led to Vinny Zaccario's 48 yard FG attempt blocked. Despite Alabama having 4 FGs, the Tide offense scored on their 1st 8 possesions and limited the Owls to 110 total yards.
What to watch for: Marcus Trice and Zach Whitfield should make big impact on the Owls 114th ranked pass offense. But the player who needs to step it up will be Hilbert Jackson. If Jackson can manage to get his first interception of the season, then Graham Wilbert will have a long day. Especially if North Texas offense can put points on the board.
Conclusion: The Mean Green and the Owls have only one thing in common... their overall records. Florida Atlantic's defense have given up 1216 yards against Georgia and Alabama respectively, but that was on the road. The problem for coach Carl Pelini is that his team hasn't had much of a chance against an offense of UNT's caliber. North Texas has the attitude. Sadly, it hasn't translated in to wins against FBS competition this year. This game could go either way if the Mean Green can't cash in on long drives.
Prediction: North Texas by 10.
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September 29, 2012- FAU Stadium, Boca Raton, FL
North Texas: If there was anything that would drive coach Dan McCarney crazy about the game against Troy (14-7 defeat), it would be all the missed opportunities. Especially missed opportunities that could've won the game.
The Mean Green offense (422 total yards) out gained the Trojans by 40 yards. Ivan Delgado and Brelan Chancellor were accountable for Derek Thompson's 12 completions(16 incomplete) and 133 yards (236 total). Brandon Byrd and Antoinne Jimmerson had 131 combined yards on the ground (186 total). After Thompson's 50 YD TD pass to Chancellor in the first quarter, the offense couldn't capitalize after moving the ball well. Zach Olen missed 2 FG's from 40 and 47 (both wide left) and Zach Paul missed an easy 27 yarder (wide right) to give Troy their first conference win.
Florida Atlantic: Alabama may be beatable, but the Owls were definitely not going to be that team. While they did avoid a shutout at Bryant-Denny Stadium, giving up 40 points to the defending national champs is not something to be smiling about.
The game was over by the 3rd play of the game when Crimson Tide QB A.J. McCarron hit Kenny Bell on 85 YD touchdown reception. The Owls first touchdown came with 2:49 remaining when Alex DeLeon caught a TD pass from 6 yards out. The Owls did recover a Christion Jones fumble (Tim Raber recovered) to extend their second possesion, but that led to Vinny Zaccario's 48 yard FG attempt blocked. Despite Alabama having 4 FGs, the Tide offense scored on their 1st 8 possesions and limited the Owls to 110 total yards.
What to watch for: Marcus Trice and Zach Whitfield should make big impact on the Owls 114th ranked pass offense. But the player who needs to step it up will be Hilbert Jackson. If Jackson can manage to get his first interception of the season, then Graham Wilbert will have a long day. Especially if North Texas offense can put points on the board.
Conclusion: The Mean Green and the Owls have only one thing in common... their overall records. Florida Atlantic's defense have given up 1216 yards against Georgia and Alabama respectively, but that was on the road. The problem for coach Carl Pelini is that his team hasn't had much of a chance against an offense of UNT's caliber. North Texas has the attitude. Sadly, it hasn't translated in to wins against FBS competition this year. This game could go either way if the Mean Green can't cash in on long drives.
Prediction: North Texas by 10.
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Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Dallas Cowboys
Scouting Report for Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-1) vs. Dallas Cowboys (1-1)
September 23, 2012- Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, TX
Buccaneers: Whatever it is worth, the Bucs did their best to beat the Giants at MetLife Stadium last week (41-34). They had a 27-16 advantage after 3 quarters, but the G-Men had a miraculous 4th quarter.
One of the keys to that defeat were Josh Freeman's 2 interceptions. He got picked late in the 3rd and got picked again with :31 remaining. Freeman had a average day (15-28, 243YDS & 2 TD) The defense did well most of the game with efforts from Eric Wright (60 yard INT return for a score) and leading tackler Mason Foster (13 tackles).
Cowboys: When you turn the ball over in a hostile environment, it's pretty hard to win. When the 1st 3 possessions result in turnovers that lead to points, well, the Cowboys didn't have a prayer (27-7 loss).
Special teams were a disaster. Felix Jones fumbles a kickoff on the opening possession (led to a FG). Then Chris Jones' punt was blocked and recovered in the end zone. Dez Bryant did have a muffed punt, but that was the least of his problems. He was targeted 7 times but only made 4 catches. While the Cowboys made it close early in the 2nd quarter (22 YD Pass to Miles Austin). But the Seahawks used their home field advantage and kept their foot on the gas the rest of the game. The bright spots on defense were Sean Lee (14 tackles) and Anthony Spencer (2 sacks).
What to watch for: Both teams should bring some attitude in this game. The Bucs should've won that game and the Boys should've taken care of the ball better. Hopefully, the Cowboys will have better communication on both offense and special teams. While Tampa Bay needs to sustain their momentum when and if they have a lead at a loud place.
Conclusion: Whatever happens in this game...happens. Both teams will need to bring their A-Games. If they do, this could be an overtime thriller. But the Buccaneers are a young team and the Cowboys are a veteran team with something to prove. Let's see what happens.
Prediction: Cowboys by 7
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September 23, 2012- Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, TX
Buccaneers: Whatever it is worth, the Bucs did their best to beat the Giants at MetLife Stadium last week (41-34). They had a 27-16 advantage after 3 quarters, but the G-Men had a miraculous 4th quarter.
One of the keys to that defeat were Josh Freeman's 2 interceptions. He got picked late in the 3rd and got picked again with :31 remaining. Freeman had a average day (15-28, 243YDS & 2 TD) The defense did well most of the game with efforts from Eric Wright (60 yard INT return for a score) and leading tackler Mason Foster (13 tackles).
Cowboys: When you turn the ball over in a hostile environment, it's pretty hard to win. When the 1st 3 possessions result in turnovers that lead to points, well, the Cowboys didn't have a prayer (27-7 loss).
Special teams were a disaster. Felix Jones fumbles a kickoff on the opening possession (led to a FG). Then Chris Jones' punt was blocked and recovered in the end zone. Dez Bryant did have a muffed punt, but that was the least of his problems. He was targeted 7 times but only made 4 catches. While the Cowboys made it close early in the 2nd quarter (22 YD Pass to Miles Austin). But the Seahawks used their home field advantage and kept their foot on the gas the rest of the game. The bright spots on defense were Sean Lee (14 tackles) and Anthony Spencer (2 sacks).
What to watch for: Both teams should bring some attitude in this game. The Bucs should've won that game and the Boys should've taken care of the ball better. Hopefully, the Cowboys will have better communication on both offense and special teams. While Tampa Bay needs to sustain their momentum when and if they have a lead at a loud place.
Conclusion: Whatever happens in this game...happens. Both teams will need to bring their A-Games. If they do, this could be an overtime thriller. But the Buccaneers are a young team and the Cowboys are a veteran team with something to prove. Let's see what happens.
Prediction: Cowboys by 7
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Troy @ North Texas
Scouting Report for Troy Trojans (1-2) vs. North Texas Mean Green(1-2)
September 22, 2012- Apogee Stadium, Denton, TX
Troy: For the most part, the Tojans had a decent outing against the Bulldogs of Mississippi State. They outscored them 17-7 in the second half. Sadly, Mississippi State had a 23-7 advantage in the first half and Troy never led on the game.
Regardless of the outcome, Corey Robinson (32-45, 343 YDS) had a decent performance. Even with Robinson's 2 INTs, Shawn Southward and Justin Albert scored all 3 TDs (6.3 YPC combined on 30 carries). But the story of the night for the Trojans was their defense. The Bulldogs were able to score on big plays in the first half and the game out of reach in the second.
North Texas: No one in their right minds would've thought that the Mean Green (35-21 loss)would've had a chance to beat Kansas State on their home firled. But from the 3:15 in the 3rd quarter on, the Wildcat offense woke up and scored 21 straight points to avoid the upset.
Derek Thompson had a much improved game this time around. He went 25-28 for 208 YDS and a touchdown pss. Brelan Chancellor had a great game as well (144 All purpose yards and 2 TDS). But more importantly, the defensive unit kept the K-State offense off the field most of the game. Overall, the Mean Green held the ball 4:54 longer than the Wildcats.
What to watch for: One of the bright spots for North Texas wasn Antoinne Jimmerson. Despite carrying the ball only 8 times, he averaged 8.5 YPC and made the Wildcat defense miss tackles. If Troy fails to contain the rushing game and Thompson has aonther game like he did last week, it could be a long night for the Trojan defense. However, if Troy can establish their up tempo offense early, this game should be competitve.
Conclusion: The Sun Belt Conference race is looking like it's going to be anyone's for the taking. Unlike years past, the teams this year have been more competitive. Which mean that this game between the Mean Green and the Trojans should have a close game. Whether the game will be high scoring will be another issue. At any rate, don't let the 1-2 records fool you, these teams are ready to play.
Prediction: North Texas by 6.
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September 22, 2012- Apogee Stadium, Denton, TX
Troy: For the most part, the Tojans had a decent outing against the Bulldogs of Mississippi State. They outscored them 17-7 in the second half. Sadly, Mississippi State had a 23-7 advantage in the first half and Troy never led on the game.
Regardless of the outcome, Corey Robinson (32-45, 343 YDS) had a decent performance. Even with Robinson's 2 INTs, Shawn Southward and Justin Albert scored all 3 TDs (6.3 YPC combined on 30 carries). But the story of the night for the Trojans was their defense. The Bulldogs were able to score on big plays in the first half and the game out of reach in the second.
North Texas: No one in their right minds would've thought that the Mean Green (35-21 loss)would've had a chance to beat Kansas State on their home firled. But from the 3:15 in the 3rd quarter on, the Wildcat offense woke up and scored 21 straight points to avoid the upset.
Derek Thompson had a much improved game this time around. He went 25-28 for 208 YDS and a touchdown pss. Brelan Chancellor had a great game as well (144 All purpose yards and 2 TDS). But more importantly, the defensive unit kept the K-State offense off the field most of the game. Overall, the Mean Green held the ball 4:54 longer than the Wildcats.
What to watch for: One of the bright spots for North Texas wasn Antoinne Jimmerson. Despite carrying the ball only 8 times, he averaged 8.5 YPC and made the Wildcat defense miss tackles. If Troy fails to contain the rushing game and Thompson has aonther game like he did last week, it could be a long night for the Trojan defense. However, if Troy can establish their up tempo offense early, this game should be competitve.
Conclusion: The Sun Belt Conference race is looking like it's going to be anyone's for the taking. Unlike years past, the teams this year have been more competitive. Which mean that this game between the Mean Green and the Trojans should have a close game. Whether the game will be high scoring will be another issue. At any rate, don't let the 1-2 records fool you, these teams are ready to play.
Prediction: North Texas by 6.
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Friday, September 21, 2012
Virginia @ TCU
Scouting Report for Virginia Cavaliers (2-1) vs. TCU Horned Frogs (2-0)
September 22, 2012- Amon G. Carter Stadium, Fort Worth, TX
Virginia: The Cavs never had a chance against Georgia Tech (56-20 loss). It didn't seem to matter if the Yellow Jackets what kind of option play they ran, Virginia struggled to stop it. While Virginia did better in passing yards (199-133), allowing 461 yards on the ground isn't going to win many games.
QB Michael Rocco was having a hard time dealing with the defense. He may have been sacked only once, he threw 2 interceptions and 10 incompletions (15 completions for 145 yards and 1 TD). While the Cavs got 2 TD passes in the 4th quarter from backup Phillip Sims, it was too little, too late.
TCU: The Horned Frogs made their Big 12 debut against Kansas (20-6 win) in Lawrence. A win may be a win, but this game could've been easily a loss.
If it weren't for the fact that Jayhawk QB Dayne Crist was having some chemistry issues with his receiving, the game could've been closer. Had they committed to the run a lot more in that game, Kansas would've won. Especially since the Frogs fumbled and lost the ball inside the 20 3 times (4 fumbles total). However, Casey Pachall's (24-30, 335 YDS and 2 TD)effort was good enough for the win. Also, Skye Dawson got an interception and Elisha Olabode recovered a fumble after back to back fumbles to seal the game.
What to watch for: The Cavaliers will need to see if Rocco can shake off his horrible outing against Georgia Tech. It won't be easy against a Horned Frog defense that has made it's mark in the last couple of weeks.
Especially, if Joel Hasley has a game like he did against Kansas. He was named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week with 12 tackles and 2 sacks. More importantly, the Frogs will need to hold on to the football .
Conclusion: UVA head coach Mike London may be insisting there is no quarterback controversy between Rocco and Sims. But, that won't mean anything until next week. Sims has done well in his brief time (13-17,111 YDS and 2 TD). And with his performance (6-8, 56 YDS and 2 TD)against the Yellow Jackets on the road, it wouldn't be a surprise to see Rocco on a short leash.
Losing leading rusher Waymon James (168 YDS and 1 TD on 17 carries) to a knee injury for the season would be an issue, but the Horned Frogs should be just fine. Between Matthew Tucker and B.J Catalon (32 carries and 163 YDS combined), they will take advantage of more carries.
Prediction: TCU by 16.
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September 22, 2012- Amon G. Carter Stadium, Fort Worth, TX
Virginia: The Cavs never had a chance against Georgia Tech (56-20 loss). It didn't seem to matter if the Yellow Jackets what kind of option play they ran, Virginia struggled to stop it. While Virginia did better in passing yards (199-133), allowing 461 yards on the ground isn't going to win many games.
QB Michael Rocco was having a hard time dealing with the defense. He may have been sacked only once, he threw 2 interceptions and 10 incompletions (15 completions for 145 yards and 1 TD). While the Cavs got 2 TD passes in the 4th quarter from backup Phillip Sims, it was too little, too late.
TCU: The Horned Frogs made their Big 12 debut against Kansas (20-6 win) in Lawrence. A win may be a win, but this game could've been easily a loss.
If it weren't for the fact that Jayhawk QB Dayne Crist was having some chemistry issues with his receiving, the game could've been closer. Had they committed to the run a lot more in that game, Kansas would've won. Especially since the Frogs fumbled and lost the ball inside the 20 3 times (4 fumbles total). However, Casey Pachall's (24-30, 335 YDS and 2 TD)effort was good enough for the win. Also, Skye Dawson got an interception and Elisha Olabode recovered a fumble after back to back fumbles to seal the game.
What to watch for: The Cavaliers will need to see if Rocco can shake off his horrible outing against Georgia Tech. It won't be easy against a Horned Frog defense that has made it's mark in the last couple of weeks.
Especially, if Joel Hasley has a game like he did against Kansas. He was named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week with 12 tackles and 2 sacks. More importantly, the Frogs will need to hold on to the football .
Conclusion: UVA head coach Mike London may be insisting there is no quarterback controversy between Rocco and Sims. But, that won't mean anything until next week. Sims has done well in his brief time (13-17,111 YDS and 2 TD). And with his performance (6-8, 56 YDS and 2 TD)against the Yellow Jackets on the road, it wouldn't be a surprise to see Rocco on a short leash.
Losing leading rusher Waymon James (168 YDS and 1 TD on 17 carries) to a knee injury for the season would be an issue, but the Horned Frogs should be just fine. Between Matthew Tucker and B.J Catalon (32 carries and 163 YDS combined), they will take advantage of more carries.
Prediction: TCU by 16.
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Sunday, September 16, 2012
Dallas Cowboys @ Seattle Seahawks
Scouting Report for Dallas Cowboys(1-0) vs. Seattle Seahawks (0-1)
September 16, 2012-CenturyLink Field, Seattle, WA
Cowboys: The Boys had their chances to let the Giants in the game during their last game (24-17 victory), but they made those plays count and are off to a great start. Hopefully, Dallas will make the fans in the Metroplex happy. If and only if they win in one of the loudest NFL stadiums.
The Cowboys were only down once in the game when the G-Men opened the second quarter with a Lawrence Tynes 22 YD FG off a Tony Romo interception. After that, the Cowboys were rolling. Tony Romo (22-29, 307 YDS and 3 TD) found Kevin Ogletree (8 catches for 114 YDS) for a pair of touchdowns. DeMarco Murray (131 YDS on 20 carries) helped keep the defense in check. Dez Bryant and Miles Austin combined for 8 catches, 158 yards and 1 TD (Austin). The defense which featured DeMarcus Ware (2 sacks) and Sean Lee (12 tackles) stepped up to the task.
Seahawks: Just like their opponents, they opened their season on the road against a division rival. However, the Cardinals got the best of them with a 20-16 victory over Seattle. Maybe some home cooking will bring the Hawks back to .500.
Rookie QB Russell Wilson (18-34, 153 YDS, 1 TD and 1 INT) looked impressive in his debut. He spread the ball around to 9 different receivers (only 7 made catches). Braylon Edwards led all receiver with 5 catches and Sidney Rice gave Wilson his first TD pass in the 3rd quarter. Leon Washington had 184 all purpose yards on special teams.
What to watch for: Jason Witten still has an issue with his lacerated spleen that he suffered in the preseason (against the Raiders). While he only had two catches for 10 yards, he still had a game changing impact. That shouldn't be any difference if the Seattle secondary has their way with the receivers.
Wilson has made a believer out of the Seahawk faithful with his performance against the Cardinals last Sunday. While he came up short on the final drive of the game, there is no doubt that the future is now. The more important issue will be how the Seahawks tall CB's Richard Sherman and Brandon Browner (both 6'3) handle the Cowboys receivers. Sherman did have a pick against the Cardinals last week, but they are facing a much improved quarterback in Romo.
Conclusion: A lot has changed in Seattle since January 6, 2007 (21-20 Seahawks in the Wildcard). Romo is no longer a holder for a place kicker. And let's face it, the Seahawks are not the experienced team they used to be. The past is the past...let it go already.
The Cowboys may have had 13 penalties for 86 YDS, but that didn't stop their momentum. It wouldn't be a complete shock if the Cowboys have some penalties due to the 12th man at CenturyLink, but going over 10 penalties would be an utter failure (even if the Cowboys win). The Seahawks should stick to what they were doing against the Cardinals. But as long as fans remember that 2006 Wild Card game, the Cowboys will play even harder to prove that they are a title contender this season.
Prediction: Cowboys by 17.
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September 16, 2012-CenturyLink Field, Seattle, WA
Cowboys: The Boys had their chances to let the Giants in the game during their last game (24-17 victory), but they made those plays count and are off to a great start. Hopefully, Dallas will make the fans in the Metroplex happy. If and only if they win in one of the loudest NFL stadiums.
The Cowboys were only down once in the game when the G-Men opened the second quarter with a Lawrence Tynes 22 YD FG off a Tony Romo interception. After that, the Cowboys were rolling. Tony Romo (22-29, 307 YDS and 3 TD) found Kevin Ogletree (8 catches for 114 YDS) for a pair of touchdowns. DeMarco Murray (131 YDS on 20 carries) helped keep the defense in check. Dez Bryant and Miles Austin combined for 8 catches, 158 yards and 1 TD (Austin). The defense which featured DeMarcus Ware (2 sacks) and Sean Lee (12 tackles) stepped up to the task.
Seahawks: Just like their opponents, they opened their season on the road against a division rival. However, the Cardinals got the best of them with a 20-16 victory over Seattle. Maybe some home cooking will bring the Hawks back to .500.
Rookie QB Russell Wilson (18-34, 153 YDS, 1 TD and 1 INT) looked impressive in his debut. He spread the ball around to 9 different receivers (only 7 made catches). Braylon Edwards led all receiver with 5 catches and Sidney Rice gave Wilson his first TD pass in the 3rd quarter. Leon Washington had 184 all purpose yards on special teams.
What to watch for: Jason Witten still has an issue with his lacerated spleen that he suffered in the preseason (against the Raiders). While he only had two catches for 10 yards, he still had a game changing impact. That shouldn't be any difference if the Seattle secondary has their way with the receivers.
Wilson has made a believer out of the Seahawk faithful with his performance against the Cardinals last Sunday. While he came up short on the final drive of the game, there is no doubt that the future is now. The more important issue will be how the Seahawks tall CB's Richard Sherman and Brandon Browner (both 6'3) handle the Cowboys receivers. Sherman did have a pick against the Cardinals last week, but they are facing a much improved quarterback in Romo.
Conclusion: A lot has changed in Seattle since January 6, 2007 (21-20 Seahawks in the Wildcard). Romo is no longer a holder for a place kicker. And let's face it, the Seahawks are not the experienced team they used to be. The past is the past...let it go already.
The Cowboys may have had 13 penalties for 86 YDS, but that didn't stop their momentum. It wouldn't be a complete shock if the Cowboys have some penalties due to the 12th man at CenturyLink, but going over 10 penalties would be an utter failure (even if the Cowboys win). The Seahawks should stick to what they were doing against the Cardinals. But as long as fans remember that 2006 Wild Card game, the Cowboys will play even harder to prove that they are a title contender this season.
Prediction: Cowboys by 17.
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