Identity crisis, who are these Cowboys?
One of the many problems I noticed with the Cowboys this past season was the fact that offensively they lacked an identity.
They definitely weren't a west coast offense. They weren't a smash mouth offense. They weren't necessarily a pass-happy team. They weren't a field position and time possession team. And, you really couldn't consider them a balanced attack.
If I had to define the offense, I would call it a big play or bust offense.
Unfortunately, too many times last season, it busted.
The Cowboys seem to rely too heavily on the big play, especially when passing. It seemed that their philosophy was look deep first and foremost, and then look underneath. Now, I love big plays as much as the next fan, but I'm realistic. That type of philosophy is doomed for failure.
This is not Madden.
With Garrett being the offensive coordinator, I find it curious that he would employ such a philosophy. I thought he would bring back a version of the timing-based offense that was in place in the 90's when the Cowboys had much success.
The playbook seems completely devoid of the slants, outs, comebacks, and deep slants that the Cowboys ran routinely when he was a backup quarterback. What is particularly troubling about that is the fact that the offensive personnel seem to be perfect for that type of offense.
Roy Williams is a big strong possession type of receiver. Miles Austin could possibly be that Alvin Harper type of receiver. Of course, Witten has drawn comparison to Novacek. And, Romo has the arm strength to make the throws.
The Cowboys still have the big offensive line. And while, they don't have an Emmitt, they do have three running backs who are pretty good in their own right.
Maybe, now that Owens is gone, Garrett will bring back some of the old Cowboys playbook.
It would be nice.
At least then they would have an identity.
The Wizard has spoken.
