The Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys sure seem to go through great lengths to earn that Cowboys moniker.

For most of the sports world it is not a surprise that the Cowboys decided to release Terrell Owens this offseason; especially considering the perceived rift in the locker room (whether that was entirely due to T.O. is somewhat questionable). It does come as somewhat of a surprise since Jerry Jones seemingly was content with Terrell Owens being part of the Cowboys family and since releasing him created a US$9million hit on his salary cap space. Now, judging by the reports from the NFL Owner's meeting, Jerry Jones is going out of his way to promote Wade Phillips, Miles Austin (?) and, Tony Romo. Frankly, I do not have anything in-depth to say about Miles Austin because I do believe he is a great talent. It is still very questionable if he can actually feature as a WR in the NFL so Mr. Jones is obviously experiencing wishful thinking. (Must be good to be the Boss).

I have some respect for Wade Phillips however it is a fleeting reservation for the Cowboys coach. After watching the Philly-Dallas game which effectively eliminated the 'boys from the playoffs, it is fair to say that Phillips has a lot of making up to do. His coaching during that game left a lot to be desired and sends (or should send) the wrong message to the Cowboys' Nation. It is understandable that the all the pressure final caught up to the team but it is not understandable how he could have not anticipated this happening. The whole thing stinks and quite frankly is disappointing.

With T.O. now out of the picture the table has been set for Tony Romo. Regardless of what Mr. Jones would have us believe, he can not have too much confidence in his guys right now so it is odd to have him supporting everyone; including Romo. It would be dangerous for Romo to buy into this "approval" from Jones. There is no doubt that he will be on the hot seat for this upcoming season whether he believes it himself or not. Jones would be risking his organization if Romo regresses next season so there is no room for error. I like the guy but for 3 consecutive years now, Romo has been at the centre of Epic "disasters" for the Cowboys when it comes to playoffs-related performances. From fumbling a snap on a would-be game clinching field goal to the Jessi-Cabo loss to the Giants and to the Philly Epic collapse, Romo appears to already be snake-bit. He better perform next year.

Finally, I have this theory (or hypothesis) that the real reason Jerry Jones released T.O. was to avoid the constant media barrage and questioning regarding the spectacular collapse of the Cowboys team down the stretch in 2008. Considering all the attention and news directed towards the Broncos debacle, it makes perfect sense now. Well, he got the benefit of the US$9million "investment" he made by releasing T.O. Last time I checked however, none of this will matter in November/December when the playoffs are fast approaching. Romo and Phillips are in hot water for '09.

That is my word.