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Today from dallascowboys.com:

The Cowboys are trading Ferguson to the Dolphins for a 2009 sixth-round pick, and the teams will swap sixth-rounders this year. Dealing Ferguson clears about $2.4 million on this year's salary cap.

Ferguson, an 11-year veteran, signed a five-year deal with Dallas that included a $9 million signing bonus in 2005. He missed nearly the entire 2008 season with a torn biceps tendon suffered in the regular-season opener against the Giants, however, and became expendable when Jay Ratliff filled in capably for the final 15 games and signed a five-year, $20.5 million extension in December.

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Nice move! When Ferguson got injured we were worried but Jay Ratliff did more than fill his shoes, and in the process earned himself a nice contract. Now we opened up a roster spot and have more money to deal.

Posted by LoneStarStruck at 12:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

A few more hours and his fate could have been much different, but now Flozell Adams' career is set in place. Adams signed a 6-year deal worth around $42 million on the last day before free agency signing began. The new contract includes $15 million in guaranteed money and about $13 million in signing bonus.

Flozell Adams was drafted by the Cowboys in the second round of the 1998 Draft. He is a 4-time Pro Bowler and also selected All-Pro second team in 2007.

Adams told the press that he was happy to be in Dallas and never thought of leaving. He will turn 33 in May, so this deal ensures he will finish his career as a Dallas Cowboy, exactly where it began.

Posted by LoneStarStruck at 09:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Restricted free agent Marion Barber has been tendered for $2.562 million. Any team looking to propose an offer to Barber would also have to give up a first and third round draft pick if the Cowboys failed to match the offer. I think that pretty much ensures Barber will be a Cowboy next season. The Cowboys will probably offer the Pro Bowl running back a long-term contract after free agency.

Chris Canty was also tendered for $2.017 million, any team going after Canty would have to give up a first round draft pick in the deal. Canty is a 3-year veteran who had an impressive year in '07. I would like to see him remain in Dallas.

Guard Joe Berger received the $927,000 tender.

Irving native Tyson Thompson was not offered a tender and therefore will probably no longer be in Dallas.

Fullback Oliver Hoyte was waived today. He spent alot of time injured and never really brought anything to the table. His football career may come to an end.

Unrestricted free agents include Julius Jones, Keith Davis, Flozell Adams, Nate Jones and Jacques Reeves. The Cowboys may go up until the 11pm deadline negotiating with Flozell Adams. I wouldn't be surprised if Keith Davis ends up in Miami. As for Julius, Nate and Jacques, good luck out there guys!

***UPDATE: The Dallas Morning News is reporting that Flozell Adams has agreed to a multi-year contract, terms to be announced tomorrow.***

Posted by LoneStarStruck at 05:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

After watching a repeat of the Super bowl on the NFL Network it showed the Patriots fans after the loss. I am not a Patriot fan by any means but  the pain on the fans faces made me feel for them.  It reminded me of one of the games that tore my heart out. Every loss hurts, but there are certain losses that you will never forget! 

In 1983, we played the Washington Redskins in the NFC Championship game. This game bothered me more than any other and  it  wasn't  even a close game. Danny White was knocked out of the game by Dexter Manly. After "the catch" game the year before I wanted them to go to the Super Bowl so bad. This team had been to the playoffs every year. They deserved it. And everyone knew if Danny White didn't get to the Super Bowl he wouldn't be remembered as a top quarterback. I wanted that for him but, everyone was right. When you talk about Dallas Cowboy Quarterbacks  you think of Stauback and Aikman. A Super Bowl win defines a Hall of Fame player. So after that blow out loss it broke my heart I cried and cried. It took awhile for me to get over it. Everyone says "Why that game?"  I don't know it wasn't a great game. It wasn't close and we didn't lose in the final seconds. But that is my heartbreaker!

The great snow game on Thanksgiving against Miami was the second game that tore me up. It was a great game, the snow made it even more dramatic. But, we all know what happened in the final seconds on special teams don't we? I think the reason it was so painful was seeing poor Leon Lett on the sidelines after he made that costly mistake. He was crying and wanted to be anywhere but there.  I just knew Jimmy Johnson was going to lay into him but, he was actually kind in the following interviews. I was at a friend's house who are Chief fans but cheer for the Cowboys. I was standing and cheering thinking we had it won and I missed the Lett play. I saw the look on my friend's face, and knew something really bad happened. I am thinking what could happen as I turn and see the replay. I couldn't speak, all I could do was cuddle up in my husband's arms and cry.   Thank goodness my friends are football fanatics also so they understood the tears. I will always have a special place for Leon Lett after that game.

So I am wondering what game/games are your Heartbreaker! I know you have one let's hear it!

Posted by Raina Middleton at 08:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)

I just wanted to share some tidbits I found while browsing Cowboys news. Not much is going on but Jerry Jones did share some of his thoughts on some positions and players.

Jerry Jones said he is confident that Terry Glenn will be a factor next year. He admitted he hadn't talked to Glenn but from what he understood from other inside sources, Glenn is going to play without surgery and will be ready to go.

There is concern about injury in the position after what happened with Glenn and Owens in the postseason. Behind those two veteran players are Patrick Crayton, Sam Hurd, Miles Austin and Isaiah Stanback for starters. The Cowboys have some nice up-and-coming players but what happens if or when your older veterans get injured? Good question...

Jones also talked about the possibility that Flozell Adams may not be with the Cowboys next year. He said a deal could still be made but in the case that he leaves, Leonard Davis could start at left tackle.

Despite his tendencies to rack up false start penalties, Flozell was a great part of Tony Romo's success. Covering Romo's blind side is a huge job that Flozell handled very well. Davis played right guard and was also elected to the Pro Bowl in that position, so if he moves to LT we in turn lose a Pro Bowl right guard. I think we need to try and keep Flozell if at all possible.

Posted by LoneStarStruck at 07:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Hey guys whats up? Sorry I didnt write on my Spot last week but I was busy attending to some personal things but I am back. I got many emails asking me what happened! Geez! I miss one Sunday and you guys freak! Chill out guys! I'm Back! So lets get started with some Tidbits & Notes.

The NFL Combine is going on as we speak. I really dont put too much into this aspect of Pre-NFL Draft workouts. There have been several high profile collegiate athletes who perform at the NFL Combine to stellar reviews only to become NFL Busts. I prefer to look at game situational film and overall performance from the 1st to 4rth quarter if Im in an NFL War room. I just dont get it but anything to parade these future Hall of Famers around is great by NFL standards I guess. Thats my 2 cents on that.

The Dallas Cowboys signed Zach Thomas to a 1 year 3 million dollar deal. Now I know many of you are groping and griping about this signing stating that we have more pressing needs than a has been, concussion prone linebacker. Personally, I think it's a great signing for 3 reasons. First, It's CHEAP! Thomas will make 1 million in base, got a 1 million dollar signing bonus and the other million is incentive laden. So that means, Thomas would have to beat out Ayodele for starting positon during training camp, start 16 NFL regular season games, have over 100 tackles, make the Pro Bowl, and be voted an All-Pro probably to make the other million count in his favor. So all this deal is costing us is 2 million dollars up front. Not bad for a 7 time Pro Bowler. Second, Thomas passed a medical evaluation by the Cowboys medical staff. He is at 100 % people. Dallas would not of signed him considering how severe the concussion he suffered last year was and if there were still any lingering effects. Thomas is a tackling machine. If he is anywhere near what he is capable of and performs at that level, we just might of signed the STEAL of free-agency this year. And Third, He is and grew up a HUGE COWBOY FAN. Thomas compared yesterday's signing to that of how he felt on Draft Day. His family was so ecstatic by the signing as well. Thomas stated he felt so re-energized and ready to go. So you see folks, chill out on this signing. It might be a blessing in disguise.That my 2 cents on that!

I have a HUGE GRIPE to pick with the city of San Antonio. Due to scheduling problems at the Alamodome, the Dallas Cowboys will not hold training camp in San Antonio, Texas this year. I am PISSED people! If the Dallas Cowboys signed a 5 year contract to hold training camp in San Antonio last year wouldn't that make the city of San Antonio in breach of contract? Or the Alamodome? What puzzles me is that someone with a college degree in the scheduling department at the Alamodome would schedule a Church convention during the time the Cowboys would be in San Antonio during training camp. I just don't get it. I am sure that the city of San Antonio is going to lose millions of dollars in revenue and tourism because of this fiasco. It's a shame, really a shame. I have tried repeatedly to get in contact with someone who makes decisions at the Alamodome to no avail. I have tried both emailing and calling them. Can never get a straight answer. Oh well, theres always next year right? That my 2 cents on that! 

Finally, I will be conducting the 1st ever LoneStarStruck NFL Mock Draft next week. Be sure to look out for that one. I will be creative as well folks. I will throw in some draft day trades in there. It's really not going to be anything like any of the other NFL Mock Drafts the other guys have, so be sure to check it out. Also if any of you guys want to hit me up on myspace, here is the link! Send me a friend invite! Cowboys Alliance . Thats my 2 cents on that! So thats all for now kiddies! See ya next time! Same Cowboys Time! Same Cowboys Place! Same Cowboys Channel! 

Posted by Fred Reyna aka Fredooch at 03:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Posted by Fred Reyna aka Fredooch at 11:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (8)

Last night as I lay in bed, I was flipping through the channels and something caught my eye. Now I'm not one to watch TBN (Trinity Broadcasting Network) or any other religious channel, but I stopped because I seen a picture of a football player in Cowboys uniform flash on the screen. I knew who it was from his jesey number and the picture looked familiar. In fact, last year we did a bio on him in our Legends of the Star series. It was Rayfield Wright.

I never knew much about Rayfield. I knew he was a great tackle and was enducted into the hall of fame the same time as Troy Aikman. He played football before I was even born. But as I listened to him tell his story, I gained so much respect for the man. He spoke very well, he seemed very educated but also grateful for the life God had given him.

The host of the show asked Rayfield to tell the story of how he became to be a Dallas Cowboy. He said that he never really wanted to play football. He didn't play football in high school, he played basketball. He was a tall skinny kid who didn't look like a football player at all. He went to Fort Valley State College in Georgia on an athletic scholarship for his basketball talent. He played basketball and had to choose one other sport and chose football.

Rayfield was asked to leave college to go to the NBA early, but turned down the offer stating he made a commitment to get his education and that's what he intended to do. His senior year he was contact by someone from the Dallas Cowboys and told they were looking to draft him. This was a surprise to Rayfield because he considered himself a basketball player not football. He said football training camp was in July and basketball camp was in August. He decided to go to Dallas and see what it was all about, then he never looked back.

He became very close with coach Tom Landry. He respected Landry a great deal and said Landry's priorities in life were in this order: God, Family, then Football. I don't think many would think that of one of the best football coaches of all time, but I suppose maybe that's what made him so successful and such a great leader.

It was a short interview and I'm pretty sure it was a rerun, but I'm glad I stopped on that channel and got the pleasure of getting to know more about Mr. Wright. It's great to know that someone can start off in this world with nothing, and live his life to the fullest with nothing but love, respect and the power of prayer.

Rayfield Wright's Athletic Accomplishments

Dallas Cowboys 1st Anniversary Team—1985.
Dallas Cowboys All Decade Team of the 1970s.
Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor—Texas Stadium—Inducted 2004.
Hall of Faith Award—Athletes International Ministries—1977.
Hall of Fame—Griffin, Georgia. Inducted 1974.
Hall of Fame—Fort Valley State College. Inducted 1983.
Hall of Fame—State of Georgia. Inducted 1988.
Heroes of Football—Inducted 2000.
NFL All Super Bowl Team—1990.
NFL Legends Award—1990.
NFL Alumni “Ring of Honor” Dallas Chapter—2003.
Pat Summerall & John Madden’s—Best of the Dallas Cowboys 1995.
Received 12 game balls during his career as an Offensive Lineman.
Texas Black Sports Hall of Fame—Inducted 2002.
Texas Sports Hall of Fame—Inducted 2005.

“Although he was a long shot in the 1967 draft, Rayfield’s superior athletic ability and competitiveness carried him to six straight Pro Bowls and four All-Pro seasons, making him the most honored offensive lineman in Cowboys history. Rayfield was an integral part of all five of our Super Bowl teams. He was always a team player whose solid character contributed to a winning atmosphere. It was an honor to coach Rayfield Wright.” COACH TOM LANDRY in a letter to the State of Georgia Hall of Fame
 

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Rayfield Wright has a website: www.rayfieldwright.com and has also written a book titled "Wright Up Front" about his life which you can purchase from his website.

Posted by Kelly Horn at 11:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)

According to several NFL sources, Pro Bowl safety, Ken Hamlin has been designated with the franchise tag by the Dallas Cowboys.

Ken Hamlin is coming off of a fine season in which he established himself as a force in the secondary and earned Pro Bowl honors in the process. It was believed that after the season the Cowboys would sign the 27-year old to a long term deal, but that still may happen despite the franchise designation.

There was some speculation that Flozell Adams may have gotten the tag instead so that the Cowboys could keep the 33-year old tackle on a one-year deal rather than giving him a longer term deal. However that speculation ended when it became apparent that the team would have had to pay him about $9 million dollars for the season.

Hamlin will be paid $4.4 million next season.

Players who are designated franchise players receive a salary that is the average of the top five players at their position.

The bottom line is we have Ken Hamlin in the fold and that's a good thing!

Go Cowboys!

Posted by LoneStarStruck at 02:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

According to reports at the Star-Telegram, the Cowboys are expect to start talks with Marion Barber and his agent this week at the NFL Combine. Barber is a restricted free agent that had a very impressive season this past year and looks to make a long term deal with the Cowboys.

For those of you who remain interested in Darren McFadden, I don't think this is going to happen. The Cowboys have $13 million left in their salary cap and have to take care of their free agents and draft picks. McFadden would cost the Cowboys a lot of money that they just don't have to spend. Stranger things have happened but I don't see it.

Personally, I think the Cowboys should hold on to Marion Barber and draft another running back. They are going to need a backup. Julius Jones is definitely not sticking around and Tyson Thompson did horrible last year, even thought he didn't get much of a chance. I'm not sure how many running backs are available in free agency, I doubt very many good ones. They are definitely hard to come by.

Lock up Barber! Do it NOW!

Posted by LoneStarStruck at 12:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)

Being raised in Houston, Texas I have to witness the demise of “The 8^th Wonder of the World” The Astrodome. When the Houston Oilers went to Tennessee, the only hope was the Houston Astros staying and keeping tradition alive, but they left and went to Enron Field, which turned, into Minute Maid Park. Then one last ray of hope the Houston Texans come. Will they revive the Astrodome? No! They go to Reliant Stadium. What has happened to tradition? I guess it left with team loyalty. Although I must say team, loyalty is getting better.

A lot of sports history happened in the Astrodome. Mickey Mantle was the first player to hit a home run there, it was the first indoor stadium and it was the first sports venue to have artificial turf called “Astroturf”. Those are just a few to mention.

It seems to me that the city of Houston does not care about tradition of its sports teams. I feel the city of Dallas should stand up and keep Texas Stadium as football shrine. For instance, hold a High School Super Bowl, maybe a College Bowl for the city of Dallas. I know we have the Cotton Bowl but that is in October and at Fair Park, after all Ft. Worth has their own college bowl.

On a last note, I say move the name “Texas Stadium” to the new stadium and rename the old stadium something like, The Tom Landry Sports Complex. So, let us keep tradition alive in Dallas and show the rest of the country how Dallas cares about its sports teams’ history.

Posted by Travis Stevens at 09:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

The McDonald’s NBA All Star Celebrity Game took place in New Orleans on Friday the 15th of February featuring Team New Orleans against Team Hornets.  Yes, having two teams with one named New Orleans and the other named Hornets can get confusing, so I will try not to lose you.

Terrell Owens of the Dallas Cowboys was slated to play for Team New Orleans in the game but had not arrived by tip off time.  Another former Dallas Cowboy, Deion Sanders, was playing for Team Hornets.

The Hornets led the game most of the way and were spurred on by the play of Deion Sanders who scored 14 points and had 13 rebounds in the game.

Midway through the 2nd quarter, with Team Hornets leading by double digits, a familiar face appears on the sideline wearing the uniform of New Orleans. Getcha popcorn ready cause T.O. has just arrived.  T.O. quickly makes an impact on the game but his team still trails the Hornets 28-23 at the half. 

In the second half, New Orleans makes a game out of it by closing the gap to 50-49 in favor of the Hornets with 19.5 seconds to go.  With that short time remaining, Floyd Mayweather (world welterweight champion) was sent to the foul line and hit both free throws to give New Orleans a lead of 51-50.  No other points were scored in the final seconds of the game giving New Orleans the win.

Terrell Owens finished the game as the high scorer with 18 points, including one dunk, and 3 rebounds.  Due to his efforts on the court he was named the Most Valuable Player of the game.  Not bad for a guy who didn’t show up until the middle of the second quarter.  Don’t ya just love him?  Way to go T.O.

Posted by Rich Isaacs at 11:31 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Sundays just don't seem the same anymore. The hype has disappeared. Football season seems so short, just as it starts to get interesting, its over. Now we have to wait for spring and summer to pass before we get to enjoy our favorite pastime again.

But think about it...

Preseason is in August... Training Camp is in July... then there's mini camps that start as early as May and the NFL Draft in April. So, really we just have to get through the rest of February and March. February is half over now, free agency starts at the end of the month. Hell, by the time you get back from your Spring Break vacation it will be time to start studying the players again! See, nothing to worry about - football will be back in no time at all!

I know, I know... its not the same, but its always been this way. Maybe when you have such a good team you just can't wait to see them out there playing again. Or just maybe when you have a great team that loses in the end when it counts the most, you just want to see them get another shot. Either way, I miss those Cowboys. I can honestly say I don't miss the insane drama the media created for them, or that 'one' girl who presumably jinxed the team with a dream. But I miss the action.

I miss the escape moves pulled off by MB3 & Romo and the nearly impossible bombs that reached the end zone just in the "Nick" of time. I miss Terrell Owens' big smile and his confidence that no one could tarnish. I miss the Helmetless Warrior and the "Ware" wolf and the Sack Monster. I miss hearing old Cowboy stars like Moose, Deion, Emmitt and Troy talk about the Cowboys before a big game, usually defending them when others would express only negative thoughts.

2007 was definitely a memorable year for Cowboys fans. Whether you choose to remember it for the good, the bad or the ugly is up to you. I, for one, will remember the great moments. I'll remember when I first learned Tony Romo got his contract. And when he broke records, left and right. What about when Terrell Owens was named "NFC Player of the Month" last November. Yeah, I know, I'm an optimist. I always have been, and I don't think its a bad thing really. It gets my heart broken every once in a while, but it also keeps a smile on my face and hope in my heart.

LET'S GO COWBOYS!

Posted by Kelly Horn at 11:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (7)

As I kicked back and enjoyed highlights of all 17 of the Cowboys' games a couple weeks back, many players caught my eye with their surprising success.  As everyone knows however, highlights always show the good, but not always the bad and the ugly.  And with that, here are a few players I thought had disappointing years for the silver and blue.

Julius Jones

Julius Jones tops this list without question in my mind.  Going into a contract year, I expected Jones to have a breakout season and have success that would turn Jerry Jones' head enough to re-sign Jones to a lucrative deal.  That however was far from the case.  Jones started all 16 regular season games, but failed to record a 100-yard outing.  He amassed a mere 588 yards and only saw the end-zone twice this season.  Many could argue that Jones' lack of success was due to Marion Barber getting most of the carries later on in games.  But it seemed as though Jones lacked the explosiveness and downhill style of Barber.  Jones was often seen dancing around in the backfield trying to make something happen rather than hitting the hole.  I feel that Jones' performance this season will be his ticket out of Dallas via free agency.  This year's draft could produce arguably the best crop of running backs in 10 years, and I expect the Cowboys to nab one of these runners early in the draft. 

Roy Williams

As Plaxico Burress strolled into the endzone untouched on the very first play of the 2007 season, we all gave our best 'here we go again' look when we spotted Roy Williams trailing 10 yards behind Burress.  The play ended up being a great summary for Williams' season.  Williams was frequently the guilty party for busted coverages and long touchdown passes.  He was also the culprit for many long runs, often whiffing on the tackle trying to produce a big time hit.  Although a vulnerability many a time this year, Roy Williams is still a major part of the Cowboys defense.  All the babble about him being released or traded need to be silenced and talk of him moving to linebacker needs to be put to rest.  He will return to Dallas at safety next year.  Maybe his number change to 38 will bring back the welcomed sight of Roy laying a good lickin' on wide receivers.  And let's hope that Dave Campo won't teach an old dog new tricks, but revert him back to his old ones. 

Jacques Reeves

As Roy Williams was having his routine problems in coverage, Jacques Reeves was having issues of his own.  Opposing quarterbacks routinely locked Reeves in their crosshairs, often with successful results.  While Reeves possesses game-changing speed, he often looked lost in coverage and a step slower than everyone else.  Although Reeves gained much game experience this season, it's safe to say he won't be Dallas' top priority as far as re-signing goes.  While they might bring Reeves back at the right price, he will more than likely end up in a different uniform next year.  Look for Dallas to pick one of the stellar corners in the draft. 

Posted by Derek Sanders at 10:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

The Cowboys have been working hard since their season ended, trying to fill coaching and staff positions early in the offseason. After former Cowboys head coach took over operations for the Dolphins, a four coaches left to join him in Miami. 

The Cowboys brought back some familiar faces with Dave Campo and Hudson Houck. Campo spent over a decade with the Cowboys before being fired in 2002. Many of those years were very successful when he coached the defense, prior to being named head coach. Hudson Houck led the offensive line from 1993-2001, what were glory years for the Cowboys.

Hopefully all the pieces are falling into place. Some critics believe the only coaches that matter are the head coach and the offensive and defensive coordinators. I disagree with this, I think every person counts and has an effect on the team, even the smallest roles. These could be the leaders of a dynasty in the making.

If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.   -John Quincy Adams

 

2008 Coaching Staff for the Dallas Cowboys

Wade Phillips - Head Coach

Offense:

Jason Garrett - Assistant Head Coach/Offensive Coordinator

Hudson Houck - Offensive Line 

Ray Sherman - Wide Receivers

Skip Peete - Running Backs

Wade Wilson – Quarterbacks

Wesley Phillips - Offensive Assistant/Quality Control

Defense:

Brian Stewart - Defensive Coordinator

Todd Grantham - Defensive Line

Dave Campo - Secondary 

Reggie Herring – Linebackers

Dat Nguyen - Assistant Linebackers/ Defensive Quality Control 

Specialty:

Bruce Read - Special Teams

Joe Juraszek - Strength and Conditioning 

Posted by LoneStarStruck at 09:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

Hey guys, whats up? Well a few things on today's agenda. First off, by the end of the day today, the 2007 season officially will be over and all things associated with it. Once the clock strikes 0:00 in Honolulu, we can start looking forward to free agency and 2008, which starts at the end of the month. So let's do that, who's going and who's coming to Big D?

I have stated and will reiterate that Jerry Jones will go all out this off-season in free agency to make the Cowboys practically indestructable in 2008 for 3 main reasons.

• Last year at Texas Stadium. With so much history and tradition associated with Texas Stadium and all the great Dallas Cowboys teams that have come and gone, Jerry Jones would love nothing more but to leave Texas Stadium as Super Bowl Champs. Opening up at the new 90,000 plus stadium in Arlington as Super Bowl Champs would give it the nostalga and carry on the tradition of Cowboys football. Now, anyone want to tell me that Jerry Jones isn't thinking this way? 
• Wade Phillips is on the HOT SEAT. With all these new coaches coming to Big D, you can't help but think that Jerry Jones is assembling these former NFL coaches to come in to Big D with the WIN NOW mentality. For any of you that think Wade Phillips has absolutely anything to do with this process, well you all just need to come back from fantasyland. If the Boys don't win Super Bowl 43, Wade Phillips will be looking for another job in 2009 and in steps Jason Garrett.
• The loss to the Giants in the divisional round has been made even harder due to the fact that the Giants won the Super Bowl. As I stated before, Jerry Jones took the loss to the Giants pretty DAMN HARD. Jerry was even giving away tickets to the NFC Championship game in Dallas to players before the Giants game. Now knowing that, do you think Jerry isn't waking up in the middle of night in a cold sweat nowadays dreaming of a Super Bowl lost? I would be SHOCKED if Jerry doesnt make some wheeling and dealing to land Samuel or Trufant if he isn't franchised.

Those are the three main reasons I believe Jerry Jones will have Dallas primed to be Super Bowl favriotes come July. Way too much is on the line for Jerry and he knows it. Several media outlets have started reporting this same kind of reaction coming from Jerry, so it isn't only myself that sees this coming. If they are available, expect either Trufant or Samuels to be wearing silver and blue next season. I am going out on a limb here and am going to guarantee that. Only if they are available though.

Cowboys safety Ken Hamlin has been trying to persuade both Samuels and Trufant to come to Dallas by sending them lavishing gifts in Hawaii while they are there for the Pro Bowl. Isn't that Jerry's job? It wouldn't shock or surprise me as well if Dallas doesn't trade away it's draft picks for already established players. I think that if Arizona comes to Dallas or vice-versa and inquiries are made about Larry Fitzgerald, I think both Arizona and Dallas can work some kind of trade only if Fitzgerald agrees to a re-worked contract extension to make this trade possible. Keep your eye on that. Arizona has a huige financial burden with Fitzgerald and Im sure they are shopping him.

Here are some other names that might land in Big D via free agency or trade on draft day. Denver WR Javon Walker, I think we can get him for a 2nd or 3rd round pick. Chicago WR Benard Berriman in free agency. Patriots WR Randy Moss in free agency. Now don't be shocked but if New England doesnt franchise the guy, don't be surprised if in March he comes to Dallas on a visit with Jerry Jones. And San Diego CB Drayton Florence in free agency.  

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Now, I have been toying with the fact that I want to get into the Graphics Design industry and have novicely started out trying to learn both Adobe Photoshop and Corel Draw on my own. I plan on going to school in the fall here at the local technical institute to learn the trade but I have been recieving pointers from both Kelly and Tiffany here at StarStruck. Thanks guys, love ya! I have had Photoshop for maybe a month or so now and Corel Draw for two months now. Both these programs cost me about the value of a good car down payment but I think in the end it will be worth it. I have also changed my myspace page to all things Dallas Cowboys and have created an alter-ego for it called 'Cowboys Alliance'.

For those of you who are on my Myspace friends list you have maybe started recieving my bulletins of Cowboys graphics I have made. Although they are not even remotely anywhere near the quality of LoneStarStruck or StarGazzing Graphics, I think they arent that bad considering I am only a month or so into this thing. If you have any Cowboys graphic requests please send them to me at my Myspace page and I will get right on them. Any of you who want to be on my Myspace friend's list here is my link: Fredooch. There are also a few graphics here that I made, hope you enjoy them and you can find more on my Myspace page.

So thats all for now kiddies. See you next time! Same Cowboys Place! Same Cowboys Time! Same Cowboys Channel!

Posted by Fred Reyna aka Fredooch at 01:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Prior to this past season Greg Ellis never finished a season with more than nine sacks. Despite coming off a big injury in 2006, Ellis had an astonishing performance finishing with 12 1/2 sacks in 2007. He was awarded NFL's Comeback Player of the Year for his amazing year that didn't even begin until week 4.

During the off season last year, a lot of people wondered about Ellis' allegiance to the Cowboys. He complained openly about wanting a contract renegotiation. Initially, he did not get his wish but right before his debut since his injury, $2 million was added to Ellis' contract.

In his ten years with the Cowboys Ellis has had some bumps along the way, but in the end he has always come through as a dedicated player. He is known as a mentor and a role model on the field and in the locker room.

You've got to give credit to a veteran who can come off an injury like he did and have his best season as a professional football player. Ellis was honored to be finally be selected to play in Hawaii.

"It's a great feeling to be honored, to be going to the Pro Bowl," Ellis said. "You can't put too much on it. A lot of guys like myself that have never been and they should've gone, in my opinion. But when you're number is called to go, it's a tremendous honor."

Once again, congratulations to Greg Ellis, its been a long time coming!

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Check out this video clip of Ellis and Williams, the 12th and 13th Cowboys selected to this year's Pro Bowl.

http://www.nfl.com/videos?videoId=09000d5d80696539

NFL Network talks with Cowboys LB Greg Ellis and S Roy Williams

Posted by LoneStarStruck at 08:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

I ran accross this video from a friend on youtube. I think it's hilarious. Warning, there is explicit and vulagar language so open it up at your own risk. There is also an online petition going around by Patriots fans that are calling for the NFL to investigate the final 1:40 of SB 42. Talk about your SORE LOSERS!!!!

Heres the video......you've been warned!!!

 Patriot's fan DISMAY!!!

Posted by Fred Reyna aka Fredooch at 11:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)

Several weeks ago, the NFL released the opponents the Cowboys will be playing in 2008. Although we have been told which teams we will play at home and which are road games, the NFL has not yet released the date that each game will take place. I am sure that when the dates of the games are released, Kelly, here at StarStruck, will be busy designing schedules for us all to post on our sites.

Naturally, we will face each opponent in the NFC East twice during the regular season. This means that we will have to face the Giants, Redskins, and Eagles once on the road and once at home for a total of 6 games of the 16 game season.  Although we won our division handily this year, we cannot take any of these games for granted. I have said it before and I will continue to say it: Year in and year out, the NFC East is one of the toughest if not the toughest division in the NFL. Although I believe we are better overall than each of these teams, any one of them is capable of beating the Cowboys on any given day. I think we are the stronger team out of these opponents and will win the division again next year, but I will not be surprised at one or even two losses within the division. I can already feel some of you steaming at that last remark. Please understand, I am not being pessimistic, just realistic. 

One side note: Considering that the Giants knocked us out of the playoffs this year, I would be very willing to bet that one Monday night game will involve us playing the Giants either at home or on the road. There’s too much drama there. The NFL almost has to put one of those games in prime time.

The remaining ten games in the regular season are made up of non-division opponents. 

They are:

Road Games
Arizona Cardinals, St. Louis Rams, Green Bay Packers, Cleveland Browns, and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Home Games
San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Baltimore Ravens, and the Cincinnati Bengals.

Of these teams, only four had losing records last year: the 49ers, Ravens, Bengals, and Rams.  The rest were .500 or better.  Six of our opponents made the playoffs. These were: the Giants, Redskins, Seahawks, Buccaneers, Packers, and Steelers. Since we play the Redskins and the Giants twice, that means that 8 of our 16 opponents for 2008 were playoff teams in 2007. 

I have read some comments from other fans that we have an easy schedule and we should go undefeated in 2008. Again, I don’t want to sound pessimistic, but this is the NFL and since we were the number one seed in the NFC this last year, the powers that be in the league have no intention of making it easy on us. Although most of these teams didn’t come close to matching our 13-3 record last year, this will still be a tough schedule. Remember, we almost lost to Buffalo early this last season (and to be honest, we probably should have the way we played) but we pulled it out in the end. Just like I said about the NFC East, any team in the NFL has talent and can put together at least one great day of football (I think the Patriots would agree with that anyway).

As for an undefeated season, I would enjoy that just a much as any Cowboy fan. However, history makes me face the realistic probability that this won’t happen. Seldom does a team have that opportunity.  It takes talent on your team, but due to the level of opposition in the NFL, a little luck is also usually needed. Personally, I would rather see us take a loss or two in the regular season and then go into the playoffs fighting mad. Lose early, get it out of our system and enter the playoffs knowing that we are a good team but not overconfident about it (Once again, I think the Patriots might agree with me here).

So, here’s what I think and some of you may write nasty things to me about it - but it’s ok, I can take it.  We will win the NFC East. We will be the frontrunner for the Superbowl title and I think we WILL take it. Undefeated? No. I honestly believe our record will be no better than 14-2 and could even be 12-4.  Again, I am not being negative, just realistic based on that schedule. We will lose at least one or two games in the NFC East and maybe one or two among our remaining opponents.  I hope I am wrong.  19-0 would be wonderful. If I’m wrong I will gladly let my wife spank me and call me names (Hmmmm…..Now that I think about it……never mind. Now where was I???  Oh yeah....).  The bottom line is that a tough schedule with some losses will prepare us to rise to the occasion when the playoffs arrive.  Just like diamonds are made under extreme pressure, it may very well be the pressure of losses that cause our Stars to shine. Shine on Cowboys. Run for the Ring baby!!!

Posted by Rich Isaacs at 09:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (9)

NFL Network's Rich Eisen talks with Tony Romo and Terrell Owens in a light-hearted interview in paradise. As the guys get ready for this year's Pro Bowl in Hawaii, they talk about football, basketball, golf and more!

T.O. and Romo Interview on NFL.com

Posted by LoneStarStruck at 08:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)

Today is Kelly's 29th birthday!

Please join us in celebrating this special day for our wonderful friend Kelly. She brings Cowboys Fans together and shares her talent and her love for our team with so many. We wish you the best Birthday ever and thank you for all you do!

Posted by Tiffany Johnson at 12:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (16)

In the end 18-0 was just not enough.  18-1 doesn’t earn you a Championship when the loss comes in the last game.  You have to be able to finish to claim the title of Superbowl Champions.  I think it was Fox announcer Curt Menefee that I heard say, “The Patriots came in undefeated while the Giants came in undaunted.” That just about sums it up. As many of you know, I was rooting for the Giants in this game while many of my other Cowboy friends wanted the Pats to finish their season undefeated and go down in history (while many Cowboy fans also couldn’t have cared less).  I really didn’t think the Giants would accomplish this, but my hat is off to the G-Men.  They had a job to do and did what no other team has been able to do this season.

The Giants defense was definitely the key in this game.  The defense was able to put so much pressure on Tom Brady that the Pats were never able to get in rhythm and stay there.  Brady was sacked 5 times and hit 9 other times while throwing the ball.

As Cowboy fans, why should we care?  Well, here are my thoughts for what they’re worth:  The Giants defense pressured Brady just like it did Romo in our last game against the Giants.  While many people have wanted to play the blame game and not give the Giants credit for the win over the Cowboys, I for one, will do so. Our loss to the Giants had nothing to do with Jessica Simpson, or Mexico, or assistant coaches being distracted. Jessica didn’t play in the game.  The game took place in Dallas, not Mexico.  The coaches didn’t drop the balls, botch the plays, or fail to protect Romo.  Like T.O. said in his interview after the game: “We lost as a team.”

Protection was something Brady would have loved to have had yesterday. The Giants defense just kept getting into the backfield and I’m sure that Brady was hearing footsteps coming up behind him on every play by the end of the game. I don’t blame Brady for this loss and I don’t blame Romo for ours.  A quarterback is one man, while a win/loss is a team effort. The Giants outplayed the Patriots, and, much as it pains me to say it, they outplayed the Boys.

I do take some consolation in the fact that the Patriots will not be considered “The Greatest Team of All Time” now. They are just one of the other 31 teams who failed to finish.

One final thought for what it’s worth: Our Cowboys played the Giants three times this season, winning two, but losing the one that counted. The Patriots played the Giants twice this season, winning one, but losing the one that counted.  If you add up the score of the Giants v. Patriots games you come up with 8 quarters of football and a final cumulative score of 52-52.  The Cowboys, on the other hand, played 12 quarters of football against the Giants and finished with a final cumulative score of Cowboys 93-Superbowl Champions 76. Now, I know that’s not much consolation to my Cowboy friends out there but I find some satisfaction in it (not much, but some….).  Should we have beaten the Giants at home and advanced further in the playoffs? Yes, we should have, but we didn’t.  Could we have beaten the Patriots in the Superbowl?  Yes, I think we could have, but that question will have to remain unanswered.

To the Patriots, I say, we Cowboys know how you feel.  It’s tough to have so much promise and potential and fall short at the end.  We know…..

To the Giants, who have not, and probably will not, get the respect they deserve from most, I tip my hat to you on a good season and the ability to finish well. Wear your crown proudly. You are Champions and I freely admit it. 

However, keep your ears to the ground during the offseason. Down in Texas, horses are getting re-shoed and saddles are being polished. If you listen closely, you will begin to hear the thunder of distant hoof beats and the crack of whips.  All too soon, you will see Stars on the horizon.  It’s not your fan club coming to pay homage.  It’s a cattle drive decked out in Silver and Blue coming to trample you and take your crown.  So, enjoy this one Giants. We’re thinking of you here in Texas.  Can’t wait to see you.

Contributed by Rich Isaacs

Posted by LoneStarStruck at 07:44 AM | Permalink | Comments (10)

How the mighty have fallen!

I know this is a Dallas Cowboys blog but I just can't help myself. The Mighty, Indestructable, Unbeatable and Cheating New England Patriots have fallen. Fallen on the biggest stage in the world nonetheless, Super Bowl 42. The New York Football Giants are World Champions. Putting this whole game in perspective, it now makes me wonder WHAT IF? What if Dallas had beaten the Giants 4 weeks ago? I know I am beating on a dead drum but I just can't help but to think about what if? Oh well, maybe next year.

It was hilarious how at the end of the game, Bill Belicheat was such a sore loser that he walked off the field with still 2 seconds left to play. Both Tom Coughlin and Bill Belicheat were informed at mid-field by the head referee that there was still one second left on the clock. Even knowing this, Belicheat left the field. This from a man who routinely throughout the 2007 season ran up the score on a number of teams. This from a man that routinely went for it on fourth down during the 2007 season when the game was already won and in their hands. I hate to say it but Karma is a Bitch isn't it Belicheat. All that reputed classless display your team displayed during the 2007 season finally caught up to you Belicheat.

The even better thing is that New England can now not be considered an NFL Dynasty by lamen terms. Dynasties don't lose Super Bowls. The Cowboy teams from the 90's never lost a Super Bowl and the majority of the time man handled whomever they played on the big stage. So there you go New England. As much as I hate to say it, you got exactley what you deserved tonight. And by the display of your fearless leader at the end of the Super Bowl, it just goes to show that even in a loss, Belicheat still shows no class. Thats my 2 cents on that.

I'm tired of hearing about this whole Jessica Simpson saga. There are still Cowboy fans out there that believe that Jessica Simpson is the reason for the whole Cowboys early playoff exit. There is even this guy on my myspace friends list that does nothing but posts anti-Jessica bulletin posts. I got 3 from him on one day! He compares Jessica Simpson to Yoko Ono. Get over it man! Jessica Simpson had absolutely NOTHING to do with the Cowboys early playoff exit plain and simple. It jut wasn't meant to be this year guys. As much as that still hurts. So for you conspiracy theorists out there, please get a life! I would rather believe that Big Foot exists than that Jessica Simpson even remotely had something to do with the Cowboys loss to the Giants. Thats my 2 cents on that.

How about some interaction? What do you guys think the Cowboys will do with their 2 1st round picks? I am going to go out on a limb here and say we move up. Not necessarily to get McFadden but if he falls to 5 or 6, be sure Jerry will be making phone calls. If they dont trade up, I say they will draft a WR and a CB in the 1st round. Fair enough? Let me know what you guys think! Thats all for now kiddies! See you all Next Sunday! Same Cowboys Time! Same Cowboys Place! Same Cowboys Channel! 

Posted by Fred Reyna aka Fredooch at 12:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)