[an error occurred while processing this directive] 11/19/2009

Jerry Jones favors more touches for Felix Jones
Dallas Cowboys owner-general manager Jerry Jones reaffirmed his confidence in the "special qualities" of Felix Jones, saying he favors giving him more chances.

Pain management: Injuries testing Dallas Cowboys

Alan Ball (20) will make his first NFL start Sunday against Washington. He will play free safety because of an injury to Ken Hamlin.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN

Bill Nichols writes that Dallas Cowboys are deep in scramble mode this week because of injuries to offensive tackle Marc Colombo and safety Ken Hamlin. Break out the violins. "It's not a woe-is-me league," Cowboys coach Wade Phillips said. "No other team's going feel sorry for you so you can't feel sorry for yourself."

11/20/2009

Start 'em and sit 'em: Your Week 11 fantasy football guide
Eli Manning and his receivers should torch this secondary in the friendly confines of the Meadowlands, writes Ladd Biro.

DMN staff picks (11/20)

11/19/2009

Dallas Cowboys CB Mike Jenkins learns the art of game film

Mike Jenkins
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN

Mike Jenkins has started eight games this season and leads the Cowboys with three interceptions. Jenkins puts most of his improvement in his second year on his preparation, writes Todd Archer.

11/18/2009

Haynesworth, Dallas Cowboys' Gurode meet for first time in 'real' game since ugly incident

Clockwise from top left: A television frame grab shows Albert Haynesworth (92) stomping on Dallas' Andre Gurode, leaving Gurode with a bloodied head. Haynesworth then argues with an official after being ejected, and with Titans coach Jeff Fisher.
FILE PHOTOS 2006

Dallas' game vs. Washington on Sunday serves as the backdrop for a potentially emotional reunion, writes Gerry Fraley. Cowboys center Andre Gurode will play in a real game against Redskins defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth, a former Tennessee Titan who stomped on Gurode's helmetless head in a 2006 game, opening wounds that took 30 stitches to close.

Dallas Cowboys' Garrett says focus is still on balance
Jason Garrett agrees with the premise. The Dallas Cowboys were out of whack with their run-pass distribution in the loss to Green Bay. The offensive coordinator explains it wasn't by design.

Two backups will get their shot for Dallas Cowboys
Doug Free and Alan Ball will make the first starts of their careers Sunday against Washington.

11/17/2009

In no rush to run: Dallas Cowboys neglecting ground game

Marion Barber (left) had five of only 14 rushing attempts for the Cowboys in their loss to Green Bay.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN

Sunday's 17-7 loss to Green Bay underscores what has been an erosion of the Dallas Cowboys' running game, writes David Moore. Dallas led the NFL in rushing three weeks into the season but now is eighth. Twenty-three teams have rushed the ball more than the Cowboys.

If this isn't Free's time, Dallas Cowboys should cut him loose

Doug Free (left) should replace injured Marc Colombo on the Cowboys' offensive line, writes Jean-Jacques Taylor.
DMN FILE PHOTO 2008

If Wade Phillips doesn't trust the players on the Dallas Cowboys' roster, then he needs to cut them and sign some players he does trust, writes Jean-Jacques Taylor in this week's Inside the Dallas Cowboys newsletter. With Marc Colombo presumably out for the rest of the season, Doug Free should move into the starting lineup.

Scouting the Redskins: QBs feeling Orakpo's impact
The Washington Redskins knew there would be an adjustment period for first-round draft pick Brian Orakpo, whom they were asking to play linebacker after he played defensive end at Texas.

Rash of penalties unusual for Cowboys' Witten
Cowboys tight end Jason Witten is caught in a sudden flurry of penalties.

Point-counterpoint
Is Doug Free is the best option to start at right tackle in Marc Colombo's absence?

11/16/2009

Dallas Cowboys must forget loss, take care of business

Cowboys right tackle Marc Colombo was carted off in Green Bay on Sunday after suffering a led injury that could keep him out for the rest of the season.
TOM FOX / DMN

The Cowboys must confront injuries and doubt after Sunday's loss, but they play host to Washington and Oakland in the next 10 days. And with wins, they'll enter December in first place in the NFC East, writes David Moore.

11/17/2009

Chat replay: Jean-Jacques Taylor on Dallas-area sports

Tony Romo
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN

Jean-Jacques Taylor, sports columnist for The Dallas Morning News, chatted with readers about Dallas-area sports. Read the chat replay, and get his latest updates on our Jean-Jacques Taylor blog.

11/16/2009

Time has come for young Dallas Cowboys tackle

With the offensive line suffering its first injury of the season, the Cowboys will find out if tackle Doug Free (left) has what it takes to protect Tony Romo.
LOUIS DELUCA / DMN

The Dallas Cowboys have rarely gotten any kind of production from the 14 draft picks they've spent on offensive linemen since the 2000 draft, writes Jean-Jacques Taylor, but they better hope Doug Free can break the mold.

Pain, uncertainty follow Dallas Cowboys' loss
Cowboys kicker David Buehler limped into the Valley Ranch facility Monday afternoon carrying a package of X-rays of his left pinky toe that he didn't exactly know how to read. That defined the team's mood Monday: Lots of hurting and uncertainty.

Chat replay: Todd Archer on the Cowboys

Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers and Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo talk after Sunday's game.
TOM FOX / DMN

Todd Archer, Dallas Cowboys beat writer for The Dallas Morning News , chatted with readers about the team's 17-7 loss to the Green Bay Packers on Sunday. Read the chat replay, and get the latest updates on our Cowboys blog.

11/15/2009

Dallas Cowboys' secondary lacking on key drive of 17-7 loss

Mike Jenkins makes an open-field tackle for the Dallas Cowboys on Green Bay's Jordy Nelson in the fourth quarter.
TOM FOX / DMN

Through 2 ½ quarters of Sunday's 17-7 loss, the Dallas Cowboys' secondary held strong against Green Bay's quick-throw offense. Then the roof caved in on Dallas' defenders, writes Bill Nichols.

11/16/2009

Dallas Cowboys by the numbers

11/15/2009

Dallas Cowboys lose way without stars in 17-7 loss

Even Miles Austin couldn't save the Dallas Cowboys' offense on Sunday against the Green Bay Packers.
TOM FOX / DMN

Green Bay beat the Dallas Cowboys, 17-7, and ended their four-game winning streak, in part, because the Cowboys don't have a runner or receiver capable of consistently imposing his will on the game with the sheer power of his talent, writes Jean-Jacques Taylor.

11/16/2009

Road isn't so easy for Dallas Cowboys after 17-7 loss

Felix Jones and the Dallas Cowboys were brought down by the Green Bay Packers.
TOM FOX / DMN

What some thought was an easy path to a 9-2 record for the Dallas Cowboys by the end of Thanksgiving Day disappeared faster than you can say "play not reviewable" in a 17-7 loss to Green Bay, writes Tim Cowlishaw.

11/15/2009

Dallas Cowboys take a step backward with 17-7 loss

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (9) has the ball ripped from his hands.
TOM FOX / DMN

The Dallas Cowboys left Lambeau Field with a 17-7 loss because their normally prolific offense fell flat against an inspired Packers defense led by cornerback Charles Woodson.

Best, worst of Roy Williams shows in Dallas Cowboys' 17-7 loss

Roy Williams had five catches for 105 yards for the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday against the Green Bay Packers.
TOM FOX / DMN

Roy Williams caught a 9-yard touchdown pass with 38 seconds left. It helped the Dallas Cowboys avoid their first shutout since 2003 in the 17-7 loss, but there was no celebration.

Dallas Cowboys' offense derailed in 17-7 loss

Tony Romo and the Dallas Cowboys' offense walks off the field in disgust.
TOM FOX / DMN

Assistant head coach Jason Garrett and quarterback Tony Romo have combined to run the Cowboys offense from start to finish in 38 games. Their performance during Sunday's 17-7 loss to Green Bay will be ranked as No. 37, writes Gerry Fraley.

Call that hurt Dallas Cowboys in 17-7 loss was correct
Trailing 10-0 in the fourth quarter, the Cowboys needed some breaks to go their way, especially after Green Bay recovered a Tony Romo fumble after a sack at the Dallas 3. Then referee Jeff Triplette remembered the play cannot be challenged.

11/16/2009

Packers defense dominates Dallas Cowboys, 17-7
Green Bay limited the Cowboys to 278 total yards – 61 on the ground – Sunday as they toppled the Cowboys, 17-7, at Lambeau Field. That performance came seven days after the Packers gave up 38 points in a loss to then-winless Tampa Bay.

Cowboys-Packers: Notebook
Marc Colombo's consecutive starts streak will end at 57 because of a broken left fibula. Colombo, who had been bothered by a sprained left ankle, suffered the injury in the first quarter after defensive end Johnny Jolly fell on him. He was replaced by Doug Free.

11/15/2009

Chat replay: Cowboys pregame
DMN staff writers chatted with readers about the Dallas Cowboys before their game today (3 p.m., Ch. 4) with the Green Bay Packers. Read the chat, and get the latest updates on our Cowboys blog.

11/16/2009

Cowboys-Packers: Highs and lows
This was the offensive line's worst overall performance of the season.

11/14/2009

Packers present another challenge for Dallas Cowboys

Marion Barber breaks through the Packers line for a gain in last season's game in Green Bay.
File 2008

The fact that the Green Bay Packers lost to Tampa Bay may hurt the Dallas Cowboys more than it helps. Both statistically and to the naked eye, the Packers and Cowboys are not that different., writes Tim Cowlishaw.

Dallas Cowboys playing their roles to perfection
The Dallas Cowboys have discovered strength in numbers as they gather momentum by connecting the dots. The utilitarian approach has narrowed the scope of responsibility for many players and increased accountability, writes Bill Nichols.

GameDay: Dallas Cowboys at Green Bay Packers
3:15 p.m. Sunday, Ch. 4, KRLD-FM 105.3, KMVK-FM 107.5 (Spanish)

11/15/2009

Grade the Dallas Cowboys vs. the Packers
Grade the Dallas Cowboys vs. the Packers

11/13/2009

Rodgers' pain not lost on Dallas Cowboys' Romo

Aaron Rodgers (left) and Tony Romo meet again Sunday.
Getty Images

Tony Romo and Aaron Rodgers have gotten to know each other a bit during off-season golf tournaments the last few years. A reflective conversation about the difficulties of following the face of the franchise never gets much traction, writes David Moore.

Dallas Cowboys' Jones will no longer return kicks
Running back Felix Jones acknowledged that he probably will not be used as a kickoff returner in Sunday's game at Green Bay.

11/12/2009

Dallas Cowboys' offensive line has formed a united front

Andre Gurode (65) and the Dallas Cowboys' offensive line have been a durable unit this season.
TOM FOX / DMN

The Dallas Cowboys' offensive linemen live by a simple code of honor. If you have all your limbs, you can play. Durability on the offensive line is a strength of this team, writes Gerry Fraley.

Dallas Cowboys pass rush wary of Packers' offensive line
The Dallas Cowboys figure to extend their sack streak Sunday when they face Green Bay. The Cowboys have had at least three sacks in six straight games, and the Packers' Aaron Rodgers has been sacked more than any other NFL quarterback.

11/13/2009

DMN staff picks (11/13)

11/12/2009

Romo, Ratliff are Dallas Cowboys' midseason MVPs

Jay Ratliff
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN

Before the Dallas Cowboys begin the second half of the season at Green Bay, Todd Archer hands out some first-half awards.

Dallas Cowboys' defense keeping scoring from soaring

Dallas Cowboys Bradie James (left) and Igor Olshansky (99) bring down Philadelphia's LeSean McCoy.
VERNON BRYANT / DMN

With little fanfare, the Dallas Cowboys have become the NFC's leader in the most important defensive statistic of all: points allowed.

Chat replay: Rick Gosselin on the NFL

Freeney
AP

NFL columnist Rick Gosselin chatted with readers about the NFL at its midseason point. Read the chat replay and get more news on the NFL blog.

Tim Cowlishaw blog: Stars win, but, oh, Detroit loses

It's Wade Phillips' first game at Texas Stadium as coach of the Cowboys.
VERNON BRYANT / DMN
It's Wade Phillips' first game at Texas Stadium as coach of the Cowboys.

For the latest opinions about sports in the Dallas-Fort Worth area (and beyond) on dallasnews.com, go to our Tim Cowlishaw Blog.

11/11/2009

Dallas Cowboys saw Razorback roll against Philadelphia

Tashard Choice (23) takes the direct snap to trigger the Dallas Cowboys' variation of the Wildcat.
VERNON BRYANT / DMN

Most teams call it the Wildcat. The Cowboys insist on calling it the Razorback. The play was rarely called in the first seven games because it didn't work. That changed against Philadelphia.

Ranking the NFL head coaches

Wade Phillips
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN

The Dallas Morning News' Tim Cowlishaw removes all outside variables to rank head coaches, including Wade Phillips.

11/10/2009

Stock is rising for Dallas Cowboys' Wade Phillips

Wade Phillips (right) is 28-12 as head coach of the Dallas Cowboys.
VERNON BRYANT / DMN

Slowly, Wade Phillips and the Dallas Cowboys are earning our trust. Words alone, though, won't do it, writes Jean-Jacques Taylor. Phillips should be praised for having the Cowboys at 6-2 and in first place halfway through the season.

11/11/2009

Dallas Cowboys midseason report

Patrick Crayton and the Dallas Cowboys have left the Philadelphia Eagles and the NFC East behind after eight games.
VERNON BRYANT / DMN

Now that the regular season has hit its midway point, the Dallas Cowboys can take a few moments to catch their breath and reflect. It's good to be 6-2 and atop the NFC East.

Dallas Cowboys' Romo showing signs of maturity

Tony Romo has his Dallas Cowboys on a three-game winning streak.
VERNON BRYANT / DMN

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo is in the midst of playing the best football of his career because he's still making big plays, but he's not making the big mistake, writes Jean-Jacques Taylor in this week's Inside the Dallas Cowboys newsletter.

Cowboys-Packers: Point-Counterpoint
The Cowboys should be considered one of the NFC'S elite teams

11/10/2009

Cowboys-Packers: Key Matchup
Cowboys WR Miles Austin vs. Green Bay CB Al Harris

11/09/2009

Dallas Cowboys can savor the view but better not lose their grip

Dallas Cowboys DE DeMarcus Ware is all smiles after watching teammate Miles Austin score a second-half touchdown on Sunday.
VERNON BRYANT / DMN

The Cowboys left the NFC East competition behind with a 20-16 victory at Philadelphia. That's a guarantee of nothing for the rest of this season other than the fact the Cowboys can now blow a game and still like their playoff chances, writes Tim Cowlishaw.

11/10/2009

Chat replay: Tim Cowlishaw on the Dallas Cowboys, other sports

Nick Folk (6) is congratulated by holder Mat McBriar (1) and TE John Phillips (89) after kicking a field goal
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN

Tim Cowlishaw, columnist for The Dallas Morning News, chatted with readers about the Dallas Cowboys and other Dallas-area sports. Read the chat replay, and get the latest updates on our Cowboys blog.

11/09/2009

It's all about the bottom line for Dallas Cowboys

Cowboys linebacker Bradie James brings down Eagles running back LeSean McCoy.
VERNON BRYANT / DMN

Ugly, pretty, it no longer matters. With this team, style points are optional, not required, writes David Moore. A four-game winning streak and a 6-2 record at the midway point are what matters.

11/10/2009

Dallas Cowboys' Jason Witten gives student contest winner a ride to school
Jason Witten is 0-2 in finding a Cowboys fan as part of the NFL’s Take a Player to School program. This year’s local contest winner is 9-year-old Trent Beamer — a Steelers fan whose bedroom is decorated in Pittsburgh black and gold.

11/09/2009

Dallas Cowboys' Miles Austin overcomes double coverage
Cowboys receiver Miles Austin drew double coverage for the first time Sunday against the Eagles. Although he was limited to one catch, his ability to beat that coverage resulted in a game-breaking 49-yard touchdown pass from Tony Romo.

Chat replay: Bill Nichols on the Cowboys

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (9) celebrates after connecting with Miles Austin for a third-quarter touchdown in Sunday's win.
VERNON BRYANT / DMN

Bill Nichols, Dallas Cowboys beat writer for The Dallas Morning News , chatted with readers about the team's 20-16 win over the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday. Read the chat replay, and get the latest updates on our Cowboys blog.

Roy Williams can smile after the Dallas Cowboys' 20-16 win

Roy Williams gets a pat from Tony Romo during Sunday's five-catch performance.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN

For the first time in weeks, possibly for the first time in 18 games with the Dallas Cowboys, Roy Williams enjoyed himself after Dallas' 20-16 win, writes Gerry Fraley.

Defense the difference in Dallas Cowboys' 20-16 win

Dallas Cowboys linebacker Bradie James (56) looks for the first-down marker as he brings down Philadelphia's LeSean McCoy.
VERNON BRYANT / DMN

Sometimes defenses win championships. Sometimes they make just enough plays to be the dominant factor in a game that rewards the winner with first place at midseason, writes Tim Cowlishaw. With a 20-16 victory, the Cowboys took sole possession of the NFC East's first spot with a 6-2 record.

11/08/2009

Dallas Cowboys edge the Eagles, 20-16

Tashard Choice scored the Dallas Cowboys' first touchdown in Sunday's win.
VERNON BRYANT / DMN

Tony Romo threw a 49-yard touchdown pass to Miles Austin midway through the fourth quarter and the Cowboys beat the Philadelphia Eagles 20-16 Sunday night in the 100th meeting between the division rivals.

11/09/2009

Dallas Cowboys send strong message with 20-16 win

Dallas Cowboys receiver Miles Austin celebrates his touchdown in the third quarter.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN

The Dallas Cowboys beat Philadelphia, 20-16, in an intense, hard-hitting, old-fashioned NFC East game that extended their winning streak to four games. They won because they made plays at winning time, and it wasn't just one player, writes Jean-Jacques Taylor.

Dallas Cowboys hold Eagles' top-flight receiver in 20-16 win

Philadelphia Eagles WR DeSean Jackson (right) reacts when his team fails to get a first down.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN

The Dallas Cowboys did everything they could to contain DeSean Jackson in Sunday's 20-16 win over the Philadelphia Eagles. And the plan worked.

Penalties aplenty as Dallas Cowboys defeat Eagles, 20-16

A yellow flag comes out after Dallas Cowboys cornerback Terence Newman (41) kicks the ball to earn a delay of game penalty.
VERNON BRYANT / DMN

It was a battle for first in the NFC East with rivals Dallas and Philadelphia fighting it out. In the end, this big game that went the Dallas Cowboys' way 20-16 almost got overshadowed by yellow flags, writes Bill Nichols.

Cowboys-Eagles: Notebook

Cowboys-Eagles: Highs and lows

09/12/2009

Dallas Cowboys blog: Party Pass tickets on sale

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (left) and Philadelphia quarterback Donovan McNabb face off tonight.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN

The Dallas Cowboys and the Philadelphia Eagles are playing for first place in the NFC East tonight (7:30 p.m., NBC). Get observations and updates from our writers in Philadelphia on our Cowboys blog.

11/08/2009

Chat replay: Pregame of Cowboys-Eagles

The Dallas Cowboys had plenty to celebrate last week in their victory over the Seattle Seahawks.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN

DMN staff writer David Moore chatted with readers about the Dallas Cowboys before their game with the Philadelphia Eagles. Read the chat, and get the latest updates on our Cowboys blog.

Grade the Dallas Cowboys vs. the Eagles
Grade the Dallas Cowboys vs. the Eagles

11/07/2009

Dallas Cowboys' Romo battling perception that he's not a big-game QB

Tony Romo was sacked three times, threw an interception and had a fumble returned for a touchdown in last year's season-ending 44-6 loss at Philadelphia.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN

Tony Romo left Philadelphia after last December's season-ending 44-6 loss having difficulty breathing, the result of a cracked rib. Now, Romo returns to Lincoln Financial Field fighting the perception that he has not won a big game like the Cowboys will play Sunday night against the Eagles, writes Todd Archer.

Selfishness no longer a problem for these Dallas Cowboys
Despite what you might have heard elsewhere, there's a positive vibe in the Dallas Cowboys' locker room these days, writes Jean-Jacques Taylor.

Surrounded by talent, Eagles' McNabb putting together a special season
Tony Dungy, as Tampa Bay's coach, was there for Donovan McNabb's debut as an NFL quarterback in 1999. That started a decade-long joust.

GameDay: Dallas at Philadelphia

11/06/2009

Dallas Cowboys' 'No. 1 receiver' is only talking a good game

Sunday's game at Philadelphia would be a good time for Roy Williams (left) and Tony Romo to show that those post-practice tosses this week are paying off, writes Tim Cowlishaw.
TOM FOX / DMN

Tim Cowlishaw writes that he is amused how much attention Roy Williams' comments commanded this week leading up to a significant NFC East battle between the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys. After all, we're talking about a receiver who checks in this week at No. 79 on the NFL receiving yards chart.

Philly will be sound test for Dallas Cowboys' offense
The Dallas Cowboys' attempt to avoid pre-snap penalties by the offense during road games will receive a loud test Sunday at Philadelphia.

Reid and weep: Philadelphia coach's team has been been hard on Dallas Cowboys this decade
With Andy Reid coaching throughout this decade, the Philadelphia Eagles have finished ahead of the Dallas Cowboys in the NFC East in seven of the nine seasons, writes Rick Gosselin.

11/05/2009

Spread offense takes on new meaning for Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys' offense would not be served by Tony Romo (right) trying to force the ball to Roy Williams (center) at the expense of Miles Austin, writes David Moore.
VERNON BRYANT / DMN

Tony Romo and Roy Williams just haven't clicked. But the Dallas Cowboys' offense is still pretty good, writes David Moore. Dallas is coming off a game where six players ran the ball and 10 players had receptions, a show of diversity that has occurred only one other time in club history.

Drop the idea that Roy Williams is causing turmoil for Dallas Cowboys

Expected to be the Cowboys' No. 1 receiver, Roy Williams has only 13 receptions in six games.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN

Because of what the Dallas Cowboys gave up and paid for receiver Roy Williams, he will be the target of criticism. His numbers should be better. But Williams' comments - if you took them as a slap against Tony Romo – and his on-field work are not a problem right now, writes Todd Archer.

Romo, Williams spend extra time trying to get in sync
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo and receiver Roy Williams are spending more time together in their attempt to fix a broken connection.

For Dallas Cowboys' Kitna, workweek ends on Saturday
Quarterback Jon Kitna passed the 13-month mark since his last appearance in a regular-season game.

11/06/2009

DMN staff picks (11/6)

11/04/2009

Cover band: Big hits on rise for Dallas Cowboys' DBs

Dallas cornerbacks Mike Jenkins (right) and Orlando Scandrick separate Falcons receiver Marty Booker from the ball.
VERNON BRYANT / DMN

After taking some big hits, the Dallas Cowboys’ secondary has started hitting back, writes Bill Nichols. They have created enough big plays with their aggressiveness during a three-game winning streak to earn the stamp of approval from Philadelphia coach Andy Reid.

Dallas Cowboys motivated by more than revenge
Bradie James avoids the word revenge. But the Dallas Cowboys linebacker doesn't want to fool himself or anyone else, either. He admits the team's 44-6 loss in Philadelphia to end last season is incentive as the Cowboys prepare to return to the scene of the crime.

11/03/2009

Adjusting to Eagles' script key to a happy ending for Dallas Cowboys

Leonard Weaver scored on a 41-yard run on the Eagles' third play from scrimmage in their win Sunday over the New York Giants.
AP

In Philadelphia, the Dallas Cowboys take on the ultimate "script" offense, writes Gerry Fraley. The Eagles have built their success on being able to take control of a game early by following the "script" - a pre-determined list of what a team considers its 10 to 20 best plays.

Dallas Cowboys' Crayton would make history with another punt return for TD Sunday
Dallas Cowboys punt returner Patrick Crayton has returned a punt for a touchdown in each of the last two games. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, no professional player has ever returned a punt for a touchdown in three consecutive games.

Chat replay: Jean-Jacques Taylor on Dallas sports

The Dallas Cowboys defeated the Seattle Seahawks, 38-17, on Sunday in Cowboys Stadium in Arlington.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN

Jean-Jacques Taylor, sports columnist for The Dallas Morning News , chatted with readers about the Dallas Cowboys, Dallas Mavericks and other area sports topics. Review the chat, and get the observations from Jacques on his blog.

Credit must be given to Dallas Cowboys' offensive line

Kyle Kosier (63) is part of an offensive line that has helped the Dallas Cowboys average 147.5 yards rushing per game.
AP

Yes, they commit too many pre-snap penalties and they occasionally struggle with blitzes up the middle, but the Dallas Cowboys' offensive line is doing a good job, and it's time to give it some love, writes Jean-Jacques Taylor in this week's Inside the Dallas Cowboys.

Scouting the Eagles: DeSean Jackson will be a handful
In the third week of the season against Carolina, the Cowboys assigned cornerback Terence Newman man-to-man coverage of Steve Smith all over the field. In a battle of Pro Bowlers, Newman limited Smith to four catches for a harmless 38 yards, and the Cowboys won easily.

Point-counterpoint

11/02/2009

A revealing return to Philly for the Dallas Cowboys

Last December's 44-6 loss at Philadelphia crushed the Cowboys' playoff hopes and was Dallas' eighth defeat of 20 points or more against Andy Reid's Eagles.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN

Sunday's game at Philadelphia will tell you just about everything you need to know about the Cowboys heading into the second half of the season, writes Jean-Jacques Taylor. The Cowboys return to the scene of their 44-6 humiliation last December that crushed their playoff hopes.

Dallas Cowboys say team is different than one in Eagles debacle
The loss was so disheartening, the outcome so painfully symbolic of a season gone wrong, no one refers to the date or opponent, David Moore writes. All you need is the score. So why is this team better than the one that ended last season with a sickening thud?

11/03/2009

Dallas Cowboys' Phillips answers, What's with Romo's return?
The Dallas Cowboys led Seattle by 28 points with 9:31 to play when quarterback Tony Romo took the field. Should Romo have been left in, risking injury with the outcome decided? On Monday, Wade Phillips explained his rationale for pulling the starting quarterback.

11/01/2009

Crayton shows punt return prowess in Dallas Cowboys' 38-17 win

Patrick Crayton (84) dodges Seattle Seahawks punter Jon Ryan on his way to a third-quarter touchdown on an 82-yard punt return.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN

One week after picking up the first punt return for a touchdown in his career, Crayton came up with the second in as many weeks in the Dallas Cowboys' 38-17 win against Seattle, writes Todd Archer.

11/02/2009

Chat replay: Todd Archer on the Cowboys

Orlando Scandrick (32) breaks up a pass intended for Seattle's Nate Burleson (81) in the third quarter.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN

Todd Archer, Dallas Cowboys beat writer for The Dallas Morning News , chatted with readers about the team's 38-14 win over the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday. Read the chat, and get the latest updates on our Cowboys blog.

Dallas Cowboys' 38-17 win helps with Philadelphia trip looming

Jay Ratliff enjoys a defensive stop for the Dallas Cowboys during their game with Seattle.
TOM FOX / DMN

If the Eagles' victory over the Giants Sunday was more impressive than the Dallas Cowboys' 38-17 win over Seattle, it makes no difference, writes Tim Cowlishaw. Both are 5-2 entering their showdown in Philadelphia for the NFC East lead next week.

11/01/2009

Dallas Cowboys' success seems to be catching in 38-17 win

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (center) talks with receivers Roy Williams (left) and Miles Austin.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN

Every question you've had about "Romo Friendly," the phrase Jerry Jones coined while explaining the reasons for T.O.'s release, should've been answered Sunday in the Cowboys' 38-17 blowout win over Seattle, writes Jean-Jacques Taylor.

Dallas Cowboys continue strong sack attack in 38-17 win

Dallas Cowboys linebacker Bobby Carpenter sacks Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck in the second quarter.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN

On Sunday, the Dallas Cowboys defense dropped Seattle's Matt Hasselbeck three times in a 38-17 win. That lifted the sacks total to 17 in the last five games. The Cowboys are 4-1 in those games. The record and the flurry of sacks are not coincidental, writes Gerry Fraley.

Dallas Cowboys defeat Seahawks, 38-17

The Dallas Cowboys' Roy Williams reaches across the goal line to make a second quarter touchdown Sunday.
TOM FOX / DMN

The Dallas Cowboys built toward next week's showdown in Philadelphia with another strong performance. A 38-17 victory over Seattle gave the Cowboys a three-game winning streak for the first time in nearly a year.

Trufant's errors costly for Seattle in Dallas Cowboys' 38-17 win

Dallas Cowboys receiver Miles Austin (right) asks for a pass interference call on Seattle's Marcus Trufant (23) in the second quarter.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN

Pro Bowl cornerback Marcus Trufant was a welcome addition to Seattle's defense. As it turned out, he was welcomed even more by the Dallas Cowboys, writes Bill Nichols.

Cowboys-Seahawks notebook

Cowboys-Seahawks: Highs and Lows

Chat replay: Cowboys pregame
DMN staff writers Todd Archer and Evan Grant chatted with readers about the Dallas Cowboys before their game with the Seattle Seahawks. Read the chat, and get the latest updates on our Cowboys blog.

10/31/2009

Miles Austin: Dallas Cowboys' overnight sensation

In two games as a starter, receiver Miles Austin has more yardage than all of the Cowboys' other receivers and has matched their combined number of touchdowns.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN

If not for his mother's prodding, Dallas Cowboys receiver Miles Austin might not have even played football, writes Bill Nichols. "He was like, 'I don't want to get dirty,' " said Ann Austin. Six games into the 2009 season, Miles Austin has ignited the Cowboys' offense with 16 catches, 421 yards and four touchdowns in his first two starts.

For the record, only the Dallas Cowboys' record matters
As much as we like to examine statistics and comment on the significance or lack of same that should be attached to victories in the NFL, it's really all about the record, writes Tim Cowlishaw. And so it is for the Dallas Cowboys.

10/30/2009

Williams and Dallas Cowboys are dropping the ball

Roy Williams, expected to be the Cowboys' No. 1 receiver this season, has caught only 12 passes in six games.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN

Receiver Roy Williams absolutely, positively isn't as bad as he has played since joining the Dallas Cowboys last October. Unfortunately, writes Jean-Jacques Taylor, there's no statistical data or tangible evidence to support that point of view.

10/31/2009

GameDay: Seattle Seahawks at Dallas Cowboys

10/30/2009

Dallas Cowboys nose tackle Ratliff questionable
Dallas Cowboys nose tackle Jay Ratliff did not practice Friday after spraining his knee in Thursday's practice at Cowboys Stadium. He is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Seattle.

Dallas Cowboys take pride in kicking game
Think for a moment what it is you like about one of your favorite paintings. Maybe it's the color, the lines, the subject. Now, picture the frame.

10/29/2009

Young buds starting to blossom for Dallas Cowboys

Martellus Bennett (left), Tashard Choice and Felix Jones (right) are three rising young offensive stars for the Cowboys, and all are 25 or younger.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN

The optimism building in the Dallas Cowboys' locker room these days runs deeper than their win over Atlanta, writes David Moore. It's rooted in a number of players who are contributing - all of them 25 or younger.

Dallas Cowboys' Spears focused on having his best season

Dallas' Marcus Spears, a first-round draft pick in 2005, is on pace for a career-high 56 tackles.
RON T. ENNIS / Special to DMN

The Dallas Cowboys drafted Marcus Spears nine spots after Pro Bowl linebacker DeMarcus Ware, who signed a six-year, $78 million contract extension this week. The team has not talked to Spears about an extension, but he's not thinking about that anyway. Spears, writes Todd Archer, is focused on having the best season of his career.

10/30/2009

DMN staff picks (10/30)

10/29/2009

Revived Siavii keeps Ratliff fresh for Dallas Cowboys
Reborn Junior Siavii has succeeded where the more heralded Tank Johnson failed, giving the Dallas Cowboys an effective backup to nose tackle Jay Ratliff.

Seahawks lose Tatupu; Hasselbeck improving
Seattle Seahawks middle linebacker Lofa Tatupu went on the injured reserve list with a torn left pectoral muscle. He had surgery Thursday.

11/01/2009

Grade the Dallas Cowboys vs. the Seahawks
Grade the Dallas Cowboys vs. the Seahawks

10/28/2009

Dallas Cowboys' Phillips, Seattle's Mora know following in dad's footsteps is no easy feat

Clockwise from top left: Bum Phillips, former Houston Oilers and New Orleans Saints coach; Dallas Cowboys coach Wade Phillips; Jim E. Mora, former coach of the Saints and Indianapolis Colts; and Seattle Seahawks coach Jim L. Mora.
Getty Images

The Dallas Cowboys' game vs. Seattle on Sunday at Cowboys Stadium brings together two men who understand the pitfalls of following a successful father in the high-pressure world of coaching, writes Gerry Fraley. Wade Phillips can compare experiences with Seahawks coach Jim L. Mora.

Dallas Cowboys WR Roy Williams: 'I played terrible'
Roy Williams won't make excuses for his play last Sunday against Atlanta when he caught one pass for 16 yards. He's ready to move on and improve.

10/27/2009

"Victory Monday" sends wrong message to Dallas Cowboys

Coach Wade Phillips (right) liked what he saw from the Cowboys in their win over Atlanta.
VERNON BRYANT / DMN

Wade Phillips gave the Dallas Cowboys the day off Monday - "Victory Monday." Phillips' problem is he's too nice. Phillips wants the players to love him. But his job is to get this team to play to its potential each week, writes Jean-Jacques Taylor in this week's Inside the Dallas Cowboys.

Dallas Cowboys' pass rush could feast on porous Seattle OL

Cowboys linebacker DeMarcus Ware (left) has four sacks in the last two games and now faces a banged-up Seattle offensive line.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN

The good times roll on for Dallas Cowboys multi-millionaire outside linebacker DeMarcus Ware, writes Gerry Fraley. Ware just signed a lucrative deal that likely makes him a Cowboy for life. And Sunday, he and his defensive teamates get to take cuts against Seattle's makeshift offensive line.

10/28/2009

Cowboys-Seahawks scouting report: Seattle vulnerable to the run
Sunday is one of those games in which you turn the ball over to Marion Barber. The best thing the Seattle defense did in 2008 was play the run. But the underbelly softened in the off-season, writes Rick Gosselin.

Cowboys-Seahawks in focus: Seattle TE John Carlson
A second-round pick last year, Carlson set a Seahawks record for tight ends with 55 receptions for 627 yards as a rookie.

10/27/2009

Dallas Cowboys' Crayton returning to punt return role
Return specialist Allen Rossum will miss Sunday's game against Seattle and will likely be out longer with a pulled hamstring. That means Patrick Crayton will resume his role as the Dallas Cowboys' primary punt returner.

10/28/2009

Cowboys-Seahawks point-counterpoint: Extension for Austin?

10/26/2009

Ware's new contract is money well spent for Dallas Cowboys

Jerry Jones was happy to give pass-rushing linebacker DeMarcus Ware a six-year, $78 million contract, the largest in Cowboys history.
TOM FOX / DMN

Some players start feeling pressure to prove their worth when they sign a huge contract. Others don’t work as hard because they’re set for life. None of that will be a problem for DeMarcus Ware, writes columnist Jean-Jacques Taylor.

10/27/2009

Dallas Cowboys players get a 'morale boost'
IRVING – The Cowboys began preparations for slumping Seattle with their first "Victory Monday" of the season.

10/26/2009

Dallas Cowboys, DeMarcus Ware agree on contract extension

DeMarcus Ware has recorded four sacks in his last two games with the Dallas Cowboys.
VERNON BRYANT / DMN

It might have taken some time, but DeMarcus Ware and the Dallas Cowboys have come to terms on a contract extension.

Dallas Cowboys turn in the right direction
Nine days ago, it was too early to call the Cowboys irrelevant, but they had written down the directions and were pulling out of the driveway. Now, they find themselves in the thick of the hunt in a division that has suddenly gone soft.

Chat replay: David Moore on the Cowboys

Tony Romo and the Dallas Cowboys gave owner Jerry Jones a fourth win in six games.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN

David Moore, Dallas Cowboys beat writer for The Dallas Morning News , chatted with readers about the team's 37-21 win over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday. Read the chat, and get the latest updates on our Cowboys blog.

10/25/2009

Dallas Cowboys' defense deserves credit for 37-21 win

Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Ware sacks Atlanta quarterback Matt Ryan in the first quarter.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN

Please don't get seduced by the sexy display of offensive football we witnessed Sunday afternoon at Cowboys Stadium in the Dallas Cowboys' 37-21 win over Atlanta, writes Jean-Jacques Taylor. The Cowboys' pass rush won this game.

Dallas Cowboys make statement with 37-21 win over Falcons

Miles Austin (left) scores on a 22-yard catch for the Dallas Cowbys.
VERNON BRYANT / DMN

The Dallas Cowboys' 37-21 win over Atlanta on Sunday at Cowboys Stadium marks the first time they have won back-to-back games since last November.

Dallas Cowboys' Austin has second straight big day

Miles Austin (right) had six catches for 171 yards.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN

Miles Austin followed up his original hit against Kansas City in his first career start on Oct. 11 with another chart-climber against Atlanta in the Dallas Cowboys' 37-21 win.

Dallas Cowboys defense foils Falcons in 37-21 win

Anthony Spencer (93) and Stephen Bowen (72) converge on Atlanta quarterback Matt Ryan (2) causing him to fumble.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN

Offensive tackle Tyson Clabo offered several explanations for the Falcons' inability to control Dallas' defensive front. Finally, he realized there was no reason to sidestep the issue.

10/26/2009

Austin awesome again in Dallas Cowboys' 37-21 win

Atlanta's Thomas DeCoud watches Miles Austin score a touchdown in the second quarter for the Dallas Cowboys.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN

After the Dallas Cowboys' 37-21 win Sunday, all anyone could talk about when describing the first half was Miles Austin's 59-yard touchdown catch and what it did for the Cowboys' confidence, writes Kevin Sherrington. Funny how one player can change your perspective.

Cowboys-Falcons: Highs and Lows

10/25/2009

Dallas Cowboys minimize TE Tony Gonzalez's impact in win

Dallas' Gerald Sensabaugh tackles Atlanta's Tony Gonzalez during the first half.
VERNON BRYANT / DMN

The Dallas Cowboys worked over Tony Gonzalez, the perennial Pro Bowl tight end, throughout a 37-21 victory over Atlanta. It was a public mugging at Cowboys Stadium.

Romo magical, efficient in Dallas Cowboys' 37-21 win

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo looks for room to run against the Atlanta Falcons.
VERNON BRYANT / DMN

The difference between a great play and a bad play in the NFL is as thin as a shoelace. On Sunday, Tony Romo was at his Romo best in a 37-21 win for the Dallas Cowboys over the Atlanta Falcons.

Grade the Dallas Cowboys vs. the Falcons
Grade the Dallas Cowboys vs. the Falcons

10/26/2009

Cowboys-Falcons: Notebook
Roy Williams' return after missing the last game with bruised ribs did not go as well as he hoped.

10/25/2009

Chat replay: Cowboys pregame
DMN staff writers Todd Archer and Evan Grant chatted with readers about the Dallas Cowboys before their game today (3:15, Ch. 4) against the Atlanta Falcons. Read the chat, and get the latest updates on our Cowboys blog.

10/24/2009

Dallas Cowboys' Witten, Falcons' Gonzalez stand apart among tight ends

Atlanta's Tony Gonzalez (left) is the NFL's all-time leader in receptions, yards and touchdowns at tight end. He calls Cowboys star Jason Witten (right) the best tight end in the NFL.
Getty Images | LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN

The Mutual Admiration Society for Tight Ends will gather at Cowboys' Stadium on Sunday for a debate, writes Gerry Fraley. Who is better: Jason Witten of the Cowboys or Atlanta's Tony Gonzalez? Don't expect a definitive answer from the players themselves. Each calls the other the game's best.

10/25/2009

Dallas Cowboys assistant coach shows true grit in comeback

Special teams coach Joe DeCamillis, with his wife Dana, suffered a broken neck in the  collapse of the team's practice facility. But now he is up, walking and coaching again.
JOHN F. RHODES/DMN

Joe DeCamillis, with wife Dana, suffered a broken neck in the collapse of the team's practice facility. But now he is coaching again.
Blog: Cowboys
Sunday pre-game chat: 2 p.m.
Review the report on the collapse

10/24/2009

Dallas Cowboys reveal flaws, but they're hardly alone
Other than the fact that it was an extremely bad week for Patrick Crayton, who lost not one job but two, and a loud week for the owner, here's what we know for sure about the Dallas Cowboys going into today's game at JerryWorld, writes Kevin Sherrington: They have to beat the Falcons. Or maybe they don't.

10/23/2009

Uncommonly good: Falcons head coach Smith big part of Atlanta's turnaround

Falcons head coach Mike Smith boasts a 15-7 record with Atlanta.
Getty Images

The Atlanta Falcons were in disarray two seasons ago. After 13 games in 2007, they hired as head coach a relatively anonymous assistant from Jacksonville with the oh-so-common name of Mike Smith. As the Falcons head into Sunday's against the Cowboys, Smith boasts a 15-7 record with Atlanta.

Dallas Cowboys' Felix Jones braced to go full speed again
Running back Felix Jones began the week practicing on a limited basis and adjusting to the brace on his knee. He finished going full speed without the brace. Coach Wade Phillips expects Jones to be at full speed Sunday against Atlanta.

10/22/2009

Dallas Cowboys' offensive line wants to avoid playing flag football

The Cowboys' offensive line paved the way for a 251-yard rushing output by Felix Jones and company against the New York Giants. But it has been penalized 15 times.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN

The Dallas Cowboys' offensive line is a paradox, writes Bill Nichols. A group that has helped the team average an NFL-best 5.9 yards per carry has been penalized 15 times - three times per game.

Dallas Cowboys' Crayton knows the business side of NFL

Receiver Patrick Crayton has been replaced as the Cowboys' punt returner.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN

It has not been a good two weeks for Dallas Cowboys receiver Patrick Crayton. He lost his punt return job to Allen Rossum and his starting wide receiver spot to Miles Austin. But the NFL is a business, writes Todd Archer, and Crayton gets it.

Dallas Cowboys WR Williams hopes connections are coming
Dallas Cowboys receiver Roy Williams declared himself 100 percent healthy Thursday but still talked about how the team needs to "dial 911" ... as in a connection from No. 9 Tony Romo to No. 11 - Williams himself.

DMN staff picks (10/23)

09/08/2009

Cowboys Insider blog: What do we have here...

Cowboys receiver Terrell Owens (81) reacts after dropping a pass during Wednesday's workout.
TOM FOX / DMN
Cowboys receiver Terrell Owens (81) reacts after dropping a pass during Wednesday's workout.

Dallas Cowboys running back Tashard Choice gives readers an inside look at what it's like to be a player for America's Team on our Dallas Cowboys Insider blog.

Cowboys Stadium blog: Jerry tells the Fan: No flags, no banners at Cowboys Stadium

Cowboys receiver Terrell Owens (81) reacts after dropping a pass during Wednesday's workout.
TOM FOX / DMN
Dallas Cowboys receiver Terrell Owens (81) reacts after dropping a pass during Wednesday's workout.

Keep up with the latest news and information on our Cowboys Stadium blog.

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