Playing for Pride
By: Chassity Oubre
Well, as devastating as it is to the Dallas Cowboys many fans, their chance of making the playoffs is not a question anymore, but a reality, after last Saturday’s loss to the New York Jets. That heartbreaking 16-19 defeat in Cowboys Stadium sealed the fate of the Cowboys from any chance of making the post season.
Their chances were already slim, now they have completely disappeared. Again Dallas’ lack of execution nullified their hope of another win. Basically, the remaining games on the schedule will be played for pride and profession. Also, the Cowboys could play the spoiler role against their last two opponents.
Offensively, the Dallas Cowboys was unable to score 20 or more points again, which proved costly as the game came to a close. Even though the offense sputtered, running back Darren McFadden had another 100-yard rushing game to add to his growing number. McFadden carried the ball against the Jets sixteen times for 100-yards even. Hopefully, this spectacular play will continue for the rest of this season and carry over into next season as well. Star wide receiver Dez Bryant only had 4 catches for 50-yards and a touchdown. Quarterback Kellen Moore, who got his first start this season, completed 60% of his passes, but suffered three costly interceptions. Moore only threw one touchdown reception. Defensively, Dallas played up to its capability.
The defense only gave up a total of 372-yards, with the bulk of the Jets total coming against a depleted Cowboys’ secondary for a total of 299-yards. Dallas’ defense held the Jets’ rushing attack to only 73-yards for the entire game. If it were not for the four turnovers committed by the Cowboys’ offense, the defense played more than stellar to help produce the victory.
Coming into Week 16 of the NFL regular season, the Cowboys are dealing with key injuries again. Tight end Jason Witten was limited in practice on Wednesday due to a chest injury. Also, absence from Wednesday’s practice, were wide receivers Cole Beasley and Dez Bryant who are coping with various injuries. Beasley was reported out due to an undisclosed illness. Bryant missed practice again Thursday due to a foot/ankle injury that he has been coping with throughout the season. Cornerback Morris Claiborne was once again out while he continues to recover from a hamstring injury he suffered December 13, against the Packers.
With Claiborne out, the Cowboys will likely turn toward rookie cornerback Byron Jones to fill the vacancy spot. But there was still some good news for Wednesday’s practice. Linebacker Rolando McClain returned to practice. However, McClain suffered a concussion against the Packers and was held out last week, while he went through the league concussion protocol.
The rest of the team’s defensive backs were present at practice-Brandon Carr, Jones, Terrance Mitchell, Barry Church, J.J. Wilcox, and Jeff Health. Dallas upcoming opponent the Buffalo Bills (6-8), who are coming off a 35-25 lost to the Washington Redskins (7-7), as they prepare for another NFC Eastern division team. Certainly, the Bills will be fighting hard to keep their playoff hopes afloat to gain a spot in the wildcard race.
Playing against the Dallas Cowboys will not be an easy task for the Bills at this time. Simply because the Cowboys have nothing to lose since they are out of the playoff race. A team that is playing for pride, such as the Cowboys are, is a very dangerous team to face. The Bills can be assured that Dallas will come out relaxed and ready to open up the playbook for the remainder of their season.
On a positive note, four of the Dallas Cowboys football players have been selected to the NFL 2016 Pro Bowl game in Aloha Stadium. This will be offensive linemen Tyron Smith third-consecutive appearance, while both Travis Frederick and Zack Martin will make their second straight appearance as offensive linemen also. Making his first appearance in the Pro Bowl is kicker, Dan “Mr.Automatic” Bailey. Even though the win will not hurt nor help the Cowboys, I still predict them to walk away with a win. Dallas 19/10 Bills.
