Dallas Cowboys – 2009 Preview
2008 Record: 9-7
Head Coach: Wade Phillips
The Dallas Cowboys haven’t won a playoff game in quite some time. Their disappointing loss to the Eagles at the end of the 2008 season ensured that they would have to wait at least another year to try again. With many recent changes on the field and on the sidelines, 2009 might be an even more difficult year. Key losses include: WR Terrell Owens, LB Zach Thomas, DE Chris Canty, CB Adam Jones, and LB Greg Ellis. Defensive Coordinator Brian Stewart was fired. Head Coach Wade Phillips will be in charge of defensive play calling.
Even with some key losses, expect a real threat out of the Dallas offense as they prepare to do battle in the new Cowboys Stadium. With a healthy Marion Barber, Felix Jones, and Tashard Choice, the Cowboys could have one of the best running games in the league. Some of the defensive line was lost over the offseason. Linebacker Keith Brooking and Defensive End Igor Olshansky were brought in to replace some of their key losses. When it comes to pass protection, the Cowboys will have to depend on some younger defensive backs to step up and prevent opponents from having their way.
The bottom line this year: The release of T.O. might actually result in greater team chemistry. Offensive Coordinator Jason Garrett and QB Tony Romo should have a shot at distraction free leadership. Even with the continuing challenges that the Cowboys face, they’re still loaded with talent, and might have what it takes to get their first playoff win since 1996.
The Dallas Cowboys start off their preseason at Oakland on Thursday, August 13th, 10PM ET. They then play Tennessee at home on August 21st, San Francisco at home on August 29th, and at Minnesota on September 4th.
Regular Season Schedule:
1 Sunday, September 13 @ Tampa Bay 01:00 PM
2 Sunday, September 20 vs. NY Giants 8:20 PM
3 Monday, September 28 vs. Carolina 8:30 PM
4 Sunday, October 4 @ Denver 4:15 PM
5 Sunday, October 11 @ Kansas City 1:00 PM
6 BYE
7 Sunday, October 25 vs. Atlanta 4:15 PM
8 Sunday, November 1 vs. Seattle 1:00 PM
9 Sunday, November 8 @ Philadelphia 8:20 PM
10 Sunday, November @ Green Bay 4:15 PM
11 Sunday, November 22 vs. Washington 1:00 PM
12 Thursday, November 26 vs. Oakland 4:15 PM
13 Sunday, December 6 @ NY Giants 4:15 PM
14 Sunday, December 13 vs. San Diego 4:15 PM
15 Saturday, December 19 @ New Orleans 8:20 PM
16 Sunday, December 27 @ Washington 8:20 PM
17 Sunday, January 3 vs. Philadelphia 1:00 PM
Prediction: With greater offensive chemistry, the Cowboys will have greater success this year and should come within reach of the playoffs.
Record: 10-6
Odds that the Dallas Cowboys win the Super Bowl in 2010 are 11-1 (according to Sportsbook.com) |
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