Dress Rehearsal Produces Stand-Outs As Well As Disappointments

After watching the offensive line against the Minnesota Vikings, the Cowboys may run into problems without Gurode. Vikings defensive lineman constantly pushed the line back, shrinking the pocket for Tony Romo with each snap. Bill Nagy had an especially tough time as #61 was seen many times moving closer and closer to Romo. Fellow rookie Tyron Smith struggled as well as he was beat on a couple pass rush situations. The rookies will have mistakes, but being able to learn and adjust will be key to the success of the offensive line.

Yet, the worries of Cowboys fans for the team repeating a 6-10 season seem to be a little too high at the moment. It will be tough for the offensive line to be worse than last season even with three first time starters. The team has too many playmakers in the backfield and out wide to struggle. Tony Romo has proven his ability to escape the pocket and make plays, and he will continue to do so this year. Also, the Cowboys offensive line has already shown improvement from last season by converting two 3^rd and 1 plays, and having success on the ground around the goal line. The new look offensive line with more of a focus on athletic, quicker big men will allow for the Cowboys to have a higher success rate in these situations.

The stars of the preseason game were the receivers, in particular Dez Bryant and Jesse Holley. Bryant was everything he has been cracked up to be making excellent catches along the sideline. He had no fear going over the middle and continued to show why he will be a special player this season and beyond. But more impressive was Holley. The former reality television star proved he could do more than only contribute as a special teams player. Holley made tough catch after tough catch on a variety of routes. If he can continue to improve his route running and demonstrate his ability to go after the ball and make catches in traffic, Holley may challenge for more playing time at wide receiver.

While the defense only allowed 14 points, the Vikings were still able to push them around and move down the field. The Cowboys defensive line and linebackers could not stop Adrian Peterson, and the run defense continues to struggle. Also, the pass rush was non-existent. DeMarcus Ware and Anthony Spencer were nowhere to be found, but the lack of pass rush could be contributed to the Vikings offensive style with their quick passes. Victor Butler continues to stand out for the defense, but this time it was not with his pass rushing skills. Butler was impressive dropping back into coverage and shutting down the flats when the quarterback was looking to check down. Orlando Scandrick looked impressive as well after signing his extension. He was one of the few Cowboys who was able to cover the deep ball sticking with Bernard Berrian all the way down the field and breaking up the pass attempt.

Gerald Sensabaugh continues to be the most puzzling player on the defense. He was responsible for the momentum-swinging touchdown after blocking a Vikings field goal attempt, and he later intercepted a pass after a long drive in Cowboys territory. These plays accompanied by the interceptions he had at the end of last season give hope that the team may have a playmaker at safety. Yet, Sensabaugh still lacks the basic coverage skills of even an average safety.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aCqszJ34NCE

On the touchdown to Bernard Berrian, Sensabaugh can be clearly seen trailing the play and running to catch up after getting burned. Later in the game, Adrian Peterson left him lying on the field in embarrassment after an impressive juke move. Sensabaugh cannot continue to be a hot and cold player if the Cowboys want to have success as a defense. If Sensabaugh can make big plays like he did against the Vikings, the Cowboys could pull off a few upsets and manage a couple tough wins on their way back to the playoffs.