Thoughts on back up QB for this season....

[Diehardcowboy]

Lets assume for discussion's sake that this will be BP's last year and the team has been built for a legitimate playoff run. Question is, "what happens if Bledsoe gets hurt"? I don't think Jerry or Bill or both of them want to see this otherwise playoff caliber team scuttled by an inexperienced QB (didn't say not talented).

Ask yourself this,"what would I do if Bledsoe was hurt now"? Would you go get Kerry Collins? The more I think about it I think we would, now I understand the drawbacks with Collins but he is probably the most experience QB out there and he has proven himself capable in spots but has lacked consistency.

I don't see us carrying four QB's on the final roster so that leaves Henson and Romo to battle for a third spot with the Cowboys bringing in an experienced veteran. The longer the 'boys wait to come to this conclusion the greater chance Collins will be gone when we come calling. I think they need to go get him and make it plain that this training camp will be the showdown for Henson and Romo. I know there are logistic problems with this being a fair "show down" (number of snaps, starts in preseason etc...) but it must be done.

If the team was not as strong a contender in my eyes I wouldn't be saying this but it is and being caught without experienced back up, on this playoff cailber team, will be foolhardy. You would have to figure that either player, Henson or Romo, would be picked up by another team so they will be lost to us. This sucks but on the other hand its time to clearly select one over the other and get down the road. Henson's NFLE expeience this year should level the playing field, it may not be a perfect situation for either player but hey thats life, carpe diem.

[Doomsday101]

Lets assume for discussion's sake that this will be BP's last year and the team has been built for a legitimate playoff run. Question is, "what happens if Bledsoe gets hurt"? I don't think Jerry or Bill or both of them want to see this otherwise playoff caliber team scuttled by an inexperienced QB (didn't say not talented). Ask yourself this,"what would I do if Bledsoe was hurt now"? Would you go get Kerry Collins? The more I think about it I think we would, now I understand the drawbacks with Collins but he is probably the most experience QB out there and he has proven himself capable in spots but has lacked consistency. I don't see us carrying four QB's on the final roster so that leaves Henson and Romo to battle for a third spot with the Cowboys bringing in an experienced veteran. The longer the 'boys wait to come to this conclusion the greater chance Collins will be gone when we come calling. I think they need to go get him and make it plain that this training camp will be the showdown for Henson and Romo. I know there are logistic problems with this being a fair "show down" (number of snaps, starts in preseason etc...) but it must be done. If the team was not as strong a contender in my eyes I wouldn't be saying this but it is and being caught without experienced back up, on this playoff cailber team, will be foolhardy. You would have to figure that either player, Henson or Romo, would be picked up by another team so they will be lost to us. This sucks but on the other hand its time to clearly select one over the other and get down the road. Henson's NFLE expeience this year should level the playing field, it may not be a perfect situation for either player but hey thats life, carpe diem.


I think we stay with both Romo and Henson depending on how they progress this year will help determine what this team does next season.

[juck]

i know jeff mroz is a rookie but i hear good things about him,he is from my area and guys at my gym know him and say he is very talented.

[iceberg]

I think we stay with both Romo and Henson depending on how they progress this year will help determine what this team does next season.

i'd feel better *if* we had some experience back there. thankfully henson went out and got him some. if bledsoe goes down we've got some issues on our hands. while i realize *i'll* be happy to see our young qb's, i also realize bledsoe is our best shot this year bar none at qb.

bledsoe *is* pretty damn tough so hopefully a non-issue. oh well, we'll see.

[junk]

I don't think Dallas has any interest in Collins.

They had a shot at him when they needed a QB and passed.

I think Sean Payton had some inside scoop that BP didn't care for.

[Doomsday101]

i know jason mraz is a rookie but i hear good things about him,he is from my area and guys at my gym know him and say he is very talented.

I think his best chance will be to make the practice squade this season.

[Diehardcowboy]

Do you think this is what the team should do?

[Diehardcowboy]

Would you rather have Rob Johnson as backup Giants) or Collins? I think an experienced backup makes us more formidable, at least on paper.

[Doomsday101]

Do you think this is what the team should do?

I would rather stay with 2 young guys who may develope and I don't think this team will fall apart should one of these guys have to fill in for a couple of games should Bledsoe go down. I think if Bledsoe were to miss a lot of time then we would be in trouble but I think that would be the case if Collins was here as well

[superpunk]

Would you rather have Rob Johnson as backup Giants) or Collins?

I choose neither. Really, really.

Keep in mind Bledsoe hasn't missed a game in ?4? years. Durability is one of the few things that isn't an issue with him.

Honestly, Henson showed me "enough" in NFLE to where - if this overall team is as good as I think - I would not be altogether uncomfortable seeing him come out. His mid-range game is fantastic, and he and TO could eat up the underneath, IMO. I would not worry much at all should Henson have to be called in.

[austintodallas]

Romo.

[dallasblue05]

Lets assume for discussion's sake that this will be BP's last year and the team has been built for a legitimate playoff run. Question is, "what happens if Bledsoe gets hurt"? I don't think Jerry or Bill or both of them want to see this otherwise playoff caliber team scuttled by an inexperienced QB (didn't say not talented). Ask yourself this,"what would I do if Bledsoe was hurt now"? Would you go get Kerry Collins? The more I think about it I think we would, now I understand the drawbacks with Collins but he is probably the most experience QB out there and he has proven himself capable in spots but has lacked consistency. I don't see us carrying four QB's on the final roster so that leaves Henson and Romo to battle for a third spot with the Cowboys bringing in an experienced veteran. The longer the 'boys wait to come to this conclusion the greater chance Collins will be gone when we come calling. I think they need to go get him and make it plain that this training camp will be the showdown for Henson and Romo. I know there are logistic problems with this being a fair "show down" (number of snaps, starts in preseason etc...) but it must be done. If the team was not as strong a contender in my eyes I wouldn't be saying this but it is and being caught without experienced back up, on this playoff cailber team, will be foolhardy. You would have to figure that either player, Henson or Romo, would be picked up by another team so they will be lost to us. This sucks but on the other hand its time to clearly select one over the other and get down the road. Henson's NFLE expeience this year should level the playing field, it may not be a perfect situation for either player but hey thats life, carpe diem.

to answer the title of the thread, I think we're screwed....Romo is coming along and Henson, well, I still dont think he can hack it.

[Alexander]

If we were truly serious about making this a Super Bowl or bust year, we would be smart to go after Collins, assuming he actually wants to play football and would be alright being a backup.

I don't get how we can feel secure with Romo and Henson as our backups. If Bledsoe goes down, there goes our hopes for a winning season.

[JIMMYBUFFETT]

Jerry Jones stated long ago that one of his biggest mistakes was not developing a young QB behind Aikman . Knock Jerry all you want , but he seems to learn from his mistakes . It's my belief and has been all along that Parcells/Jones see either Romo or Henson as the Cowboy's future . I don't claim to know who , and I don't really care , but the future QB of the Cowboy's is already on the roster .

[aikemirv]

After seeing Garcia's success with T.O and his lack of success without T.O., how good of a backup do we need?

Someone else said after seeing Henson in Europe thay feel confident he could manage the game. I think he could manage a game as well, could be wrong there. Collins was very ineffective in Oakland IMO and I would rather keep both Romo and Henson at this point.

[iceberg]

Jerry Jones stated long ago that one of his biggest mistakes was not developing a young QB behind Aikman . Knock Jerry all you want , but he seems to learn from his mistakes . It's my belief and has been all along that Parcells/Jones see either Romo or Henson as the Cowboy's future . I don't claim to know who , and I don't really care , but the future QB of the Cowboy's is already on the roster .

and i've said this a lot about jones also. so, maybe i should listen to myself.

[Eddie]

Jerry Jones stated long ago that one of his biggest mistakes was not developing a young QB behind Aikman . Knock Jerry all you want , but he seems to learn from his mistakes . It's my belief and has been all along that Parcells/Jones see either Romo or Henson as the Cowboy's future . I don't claim to know who , and I don't really care , but the future QB of the Cowboy's is already on the roster .


Has he really learned? Grooming Troy's replacement is alot different than having two nobodies back there.

Grooming Troy's replacement means drafting a solid college QB on the first day and letting him develop a year or two ... not two undrafted players and a baseball reject taken by the Jags in round 6.

[Yeagermeister]

If Bledsoe goes down I believe Henson starts just like he did when Vinny was hurt. Romo is considered the #2 because he's better at holding than Henson...or at least that was the same.

But if Romo gets the nod I'll wish him the same success I would any qb that is starting.

[Thick 'N Hearty]

Why? Why would you start yet another thread about the backup QB spot. Now you've opened the door for all out war between two factions – the Romonians and the Hensonites.

[iceberg]

Has he really learned? Grooming Troy's replacement is alot different than having two nobodies back there.

Grooming Troy's replacement means drafting a solid college QB on the first day and letting him develop a year or two ... not two undrafted players and a baseball reject taken by the Jags in round 6.

grooming a solid replacement means grooming a solid replacement.

that doesn't mean you find them with only the 1st pick or two of the draft, or even in the 1st round.

[iceberg]

Why? Why would you start yet another thread about the backup QB spot. Now you've opened the door for all out war between two factions – the Romonians and the Hensonites.

oh yea, those are so difficult to start. say something that could be construed as posiitive about carter and watch the show. : )

[JIMMYBUFFETT]

Has he really learned? Grooming Troy's replacement is alot different than having two nobodies back there.

Grooming Troy's replacement means drafting a solid college QB on the first day and letting him develop a year or two ... not two undrafted players and a baseball reject taken by the Jags in round 6.

Well that's the path you would take Eddie , maybe even the path I would take , but who says it's the right path ? Who says that you can't take a couple of "nobodies" , put them in the right situation , surround them with the right coaches and personnel , and shape them in to something with time ?

Look , these guys aren't stupid , and they know a lot more about their players than we do as fans . I have to believe they haven't passed up all the draft picks and free-agents over the last 3 years because they THINK one of the current backups can get it done . I have to believe they KNOW one of them can get it done . I just don't believe that a coach and an owner who have done this as long and as well as Parcells and Jones have could look at their ageing , immobile QB , shrug their shoulders and say well we'll just have to hope we can get by on him .

[austintodallas]

Why? Why would you start yet another thread about the backup QB spot. Now you've opened the door for all out war between two factions – the Romonians and the Hensonites.Don't forget the Mroztecs.

[DLCassidy]

Lets assume for discussion's sake that this will be BP's last year and the team has been built for a legitimate playoff run. Question is, "what happens if Bledsoe gets hurt"? I don't think Jerry or Bill or both of them want to see this otherwise playoff caliber team scuttled by an inexperienced QB (didn't say not talented).

Ask yourself this,"what would I do if Bledsoe was hurt now"? Would you go get Kerry Collins? The more I think about it I think we would, now I understand the drawbacks with Collins but he is probably the most experience QB out there and he has proven himself capable in spots but has lacked consistency.

I don't see us carrying four QB's on the final roster so that leaves Henson and Romo to battle for a third spot with the Cowboys bringing in an experienced veteran. The longer the 'boys wait to come to this conclusion the greater chance Collins will be gone when we come calling. I think they need to go get him and make it plain that this training camp will be the showdown for Henson and Romo. I know there are logistic problems with this being a fair "show down" (number of snaps, starts in preseason etc...) but it must be done.

If the team was not as strong a contender in my eyes I wouldn't be saying this but it is and being caught without experienced back up, on this playoff cailber team, will be foolhardy. You would have to figure that either player, Henson or Romo, would be picked up by another team so they will be lost to us. This sucks but on the other hand its time to clearly select one over the other and get down the road. Henson's NFLE expeience this year should level the playing field, it may not be a perfect situation for either player but hey thats life, carpe diem.

This backup QB thing has to be without a doubt the most over discussed, overblown, over rated topic of all time. The fact is if your starting QB suffers a serious injury your team is D-O-N-E. A minor injury that keeps him out 2-3 games? It can be overcome, but the fact is your odds of winning those games goes way down simply because that QB hasn't been playing and generally speaking if he was really any good he WOULDN'T BE A BACKUP.

Before anyone jumps down my throat to disagree, let me throw out a few examples. How do you like Seattle's chances with Seneca Wallace under center? Pittsburgh with Charlie Batch? Indy with Jim Sorgi? Carolina with Chris Weinke? The Giants with Tim Hasselbeck? NE with Matt Cassel? Those were all playoff teams last year. Would ANY of those teams have made the playoffs if their starter suffered a major injury? Wouldn't you agree ALL of those team's would have had a much lower chance of winning games in which the backup started, even if it was a minor injury? So why is this point debated and discussed AD NAUSEUM?

[Doomsday101]

This backup QB thing has to be without a doubt the most over discussed, overblown, over rated topic of all time. The fact is if your starting QB suffers a serious injury your team is D-O-N-E. A minor injury that keeps him out 2-3 games? It can be overcome, but the fact is your odds of winning those games goes way down simply because that QB hasn't been playing and generally speaking if he was really any good he WOULDN'T BE A BACKUP.

Before anyone jumps down my throat to disagree, let me throw out a few examples. How do you like Seattle's chances with Seneca Wallace under center? Pittsburgh with Charlie Batch? Indy with Jim Sorgi? Carolina with Chris Weinke? The Giants with Tim Hasselbeck? NE with Matt Cassel? Those were all playoff teams last year. Would ANY of those teams have made the playoffs if their starter suffered a major injury? Wouldn't you agree ALL of those team's would have had a much lower chance of winning games in which the backup started, even if it was a minor injury? So why is this point debated and discussed AD NAUSEUM?

Then again had Trent Green not gotten hurt Kurt Warner may not have been given the opportunity. Odds are your right if Bledsoe were to go down for several game we could be in trouble on the other hand it could also open the door for a player that none of us are sure about.

[Angus]

Cassidy, why don't you use a more on-point example: sixth round Brady for first round, experienced Bledsoe?

[MossBurner]

As a Redskins fan, the last player I would want for the Cowboys to pick up right now would be a quality, veteran, backup QB (like Collins).

If I were a Cowboys fan, having that kind of security would make me feel much better about my team's chances this season. Homo and Renson could not lead this team to or through the playoffs. Bledsoe/Collins might be able to.

[DLCassidy]

Cassidy, why don't you use a more on-point example: sixth round Brady for first round, experienced Bledsoe?

1) how many Brady's have we seen in the history of this league?

2) if a late round draft pick that had never played is your example what's the problem with our present situation? Or are you saying Bill Bellichick knew Brady was going to be a superstar? (and I guess he knows Matt Cassell is going to be great also since he's the current backup:rolleyes: )

[DLCassidy]

Then again had Trent Green not gotten hurt Kurt Warner may not have been given the opportunity. Odds are your right if Bledsoe were to go down for several game we could be in trouble on the other hand it could also open the door for a player that none of us are sure about.

True. Tony Romo/Drew Henson could both become good players. But the point is the backup QB is not an issue to spend gobbs of time worrying about. Talking about developing a starter is a different issue.

[Doomsday101]

True. Tony Romo/Drew Henson could both become good players. But the point is the backup QB is not an issue to spend gobbs of time worrying about. Talking about developing a starter is a different issue.

I agree with you and as you mentioned the vast majority of the teams in the NFL could ill afford to lose their starting QB for any real lenght of time.

[RCowboyFan]

I agree with you and as you mentioned the vast majority of the teams in the NFL could ill afford to lose their starting QB for any real lenght of time.

Make it almost any team with a real set Starting QB can afford to lose those starting QB and make any good push to playoffs or to winning games. Until their backup proves to be a good one.

Some might point out Jaguars, but the backup has proven to be inffective in Playoff appearance.

[Doomsday101]

Make it almost any team with a real set Starting QB can afford to lose those starting QB and make any good push to playoffs or to winning games. Until their backup proves to be a good one.

Some might point out Jaguars, but the backup has proven to be inffective in Playoff appearance.

Just stating some are a bit better off than others. Tampa did well when Simms had to come in. However I feel that it why it is important for a team to be balanced and do not become totally reliant on the QB position. Teams who can run the ball will fair better when they lose their QB than the teams who rely so much on the play of the starting QB.

[Angus]

Answering Cassidy:

(1) a few: Johnny Unitas; Kurt Warner; Bart Starr; Trent Green . . .

(2) No problem. Parcells and Ireland know what they are doing, even if Jerry Jones doesn't. Bellicheck knew enough about Brady that he didn't think it was necessary to bring in a so-so veteran quarterback to disrupt Brady's progress during training camp. His patience paid off. Parcells' will, too, I expect.

[RCowboyFan]

Just stating some are a bit better off than others. Tampa did well when Simms had to come in. However I feel that it why it is important for a team to be balanced and do not become totally reliant on the QB position. Teams who can run the ball will fair better when they lose their QB than the teams who rely so much on the play of the starting QB.

Like I said, if a team has sollid starter for most part they are mostly doomed if they lose the starter, especially ones with playoff aspirations. Tampa realistically when they started season, were not favored to go to Playoffs, besides Simms is not exactly bad option, he was bad during his first few starts, but really proved he belonged once he got extended chance.

I guess people need to realize almost all QBs look bad on their first start or first few mostly. I just don't understand this we need a another crappy backup Old QB, just because he played well years ago, although he stinks right now. I am guessing some of these people didn't watch Kerry Collins play last year or how bad he was with Oakland.

I guess some feel somehow coming to Dallas they automatically can regain their old form?

[aikemirv]

In a league that can barely field 32 competent QB's, we would be hard pressed to find a QB that could take us deep into the playoffs. That guy should be starting on one of the other poor QB teams.

If I was Collins, I would not come to Dallas if I wanted to play.

If Bledsoe were to go down, would BP be on the phone to VT that evening?

[Doomsday101]

Like I said, if a team has sollid starter for most part they are mostly doomed if they lose the starter, especially ones with playoff aspirations. Tampa realistically when they started season, were not favored to go to Playoffs, besides Simms is not exactly bad option, he was bad during his first few starts, but really proved he belonged once he got extended chance.

I guess people need to realize almost all QBs look bad on their first start or first few mostly. I just don't understand this we need a another crappy backup Old QB, just because he played well years ago, although he stinks right now. I am guessing some of these people didn't watch Kerry Collins play last year or how bad he was with Oakland.

I guess some feel somehow coming to Dallas they automatically can regain their old form?

I agree.

[Angus]

If Carver could drive that other team's bus to the playoffs, I think Romo (or even Henson) could take this team there if necessary.

[superpunk]

I just don't understand this we need a another crappy backup Old QB, just because he played well years ago, although he stinks right now. I am guessing some of these people didn't watch Kerry Collins play last year or how bad he was with Oakland.

Ditto.

Collins had "arguably" more talent around him in Oakland than he would here (depending on your own personal opinion of Jerry Porter and LaMont Jordan), and he was dreadful. Apparently they had some unwritten law where if hehad the ball for more than 4 seconds he would just heave it out of bounds. He underthrew Moss more times than can be counted. Leave him alone.

[Doomsday101]

In a league that can barely field 32 competent QB's, we would be hard pressed to find a QB that could take us deep into the playoffs. That guy should be starting on one of the other poor QB teams.

If I was Collins, I would not come to Dallas if I wanted to play.

If Bledsoe were to go down, would BP be on the phone to VT that evening?

I doubt it because I don't think this team is being build soley around the QB. I think Bill wants a team who can run the ball with consistantcy and a defense that will make plays to help you win games and keep you in the game.

[ABQCOWBOY]

Answering Cassidy:

(1) a few: Johnny Unitas; Kurt Warner; Bart Starr; Trent Green . . .

(2) No problem. Parcells and Ireland know what they are doing, even if Jerry Jones doesn't. Bellicheck knew enough about Brady that he didn't think it was necessary to bring in a so-so veteran quarterback to disrupt Brady's progress during training camp. His patience paid off. Parcells' will, too, I expect.

I do agree that there are examples of young QBs coming in and playing well. Favre did it with Majikowski (sp?), Roath did it in Pittsburgh, Everybody knows the Brady story. System and circumstances have so much to do with success of QBs in the NFL. I agree that patients are important but I will tell you that I do not believe in developing two young QBs at the same time. I think that it is time we make a decision on Romo and Henson. One or the other IMO. We need an experienced back up QB. If Bledsoe goes down, for a period of 4 to 5 games, in our division, we would be done. All teams are two close right now. If we lost Bledsoe for the season, we would probably finish the string but if the injury were a few games, an experienced back up could mean the difference in making the playoffs and going home. JMO.

[RCowboyFan]

I do agree that there are examples of young QBs coming in and playing well. Favre did it with Majikowski (sp?), Roath did it in Pittsburgh, Everybody knows the Brady story. System and circumstances have so much to do with success of QBs in the NFL. I agree that patients are important but I will tell you that I do not believe in developing two young QBs at the same time. I think that it is time we make a decision on Romo and Henson. One or the other IMO. We need an experienced back up QB. If Bledsoe goes down, for a period of 4 to 5 games, in our division, we would be done. All teams are two close right now. If we lost Bledsoe for the season, we would probably finish the string but if the injury were a few games, an experienced back up could mean the difference in making the playoffs and going home. JMO.

Or Romo/Henson could prove to be Simms/Brady when given the chance. There is a reason those two still will be here, if they are, after TC as backup QBs. I am not sure what experienced backup out there can even string two wins together for cowboys?

Jerry and BP have said several times year, even in midst of playoff run, they think they can game plan around Romo or Henson and win. Obviously Playoff will mean another thing, but you never know about a player till they are thrown into the fire.

[RCowboyFan]

If Carver could drive that other team's bus to the playoffs, I think Romo (or even Henson) could take this team there if necessary.

You mean Carter? Yeah, BP has said that himself, that he thinks Romo and Henson are more talented than Carter and believes he can win with them. Jerry specifically said, just like they did with carter, they can carter the game to Romo or Henson if they were to start.

[DLCassidy]

I do agree that there are examples of young QBs coming in and playing well. Favre did it with Majikowski (sp?), Roath did it in Pittsburgh, Everybody knows the Brady story. System and circumstances have so much to do with success of QBs in the NFL. I agree that patients are important but I will tell you that I do not believe in developing two young QBs at the same time. I think that it is time we make a decision on Romo and Henson. One or the other IMO. We need an experienced back up QB. If Bledsoe goes down, for a period of 4 to 5 games, in our division, we would be done. All teams are two close right now. If we lost Bledsoe for the season, we would probably finish the string but if the injury were a few games, an experienced back up could mean the difference in making the playoffs and going home. JMO.

It really doesn't matter anyway what any of us think on this issue- not that it can't be discussed. But Romo/Henson is what we're going with end of story. And for 2-3 games it would be ok. 4-5 games? Odds are against all but a few teams surviving their starting QB going down that long. But Bledsoe is a rock anyway. Worrying about him getting hurt is like wearing a belt in case your suspenders fail- possible but unlikely. I'm a lot more worried about injuries to the OL- those are much bigger risks and we're still not in great shape if they do.

[Alexander]

If Bledsoe were to go down, would BP be on the phone to VT that evening?

Are you trying to be cruel?

[DLCassidy]

Answering Cassidy:

(1) a few: Johnny Unitas; Kurt Warner; Bart Starr; Trent Green . . .

...Tony Romo...:laugh1:

(2) No problem. Parcells and Ireland know what they are doing, even if Jerry Jones doesn't. Bellicheck knew enough about Brady that he didn't think it was necessary to bring in a so-so veteran quarterback to disrupt Brady's progress during training camp. His patience paid off. Parcells' will, too, I expect.

Well said.

[Double Trouble]

i know jeff mroz is a rookie but i hear good things about him,he is from my area and guys at my gym know him and say he is very talented.
The guys at my gym say he's terrible......

[ABQCOWBOY]

Or Romo/Henson could prove to be Simms/Brady when given the chance. There is a reason those two still will be here, if they are, after TC as backup QBs. I am not sure what experienced backup out there can even string two wins together for cowboys?

Jerry and BP have said several times year, even in midst of playoff run, they think they can game plan around Romo or Henson and win. Obviously Playoff will mean another thing, but you never know about a player till they are thrown into the fire.

To me, the real problem with both Henson and Romo are what happens after two games? In todays NFL, DCs get game film on a QB for two games and they basically have enough data to develope a defensive game plan that will create problems. Not saying that Romo or Henson do not have skills but it's tough for an inexperienced QB to deal with the adjustments that have to be made against a talented and motivated defensive unit. It all comes down to seeing it before. This, more then anything else, is why I believe it's a good idea to have an experienced back up.

[Doomsday101]

To me, the real problem with both Henson and Romo are what happens after two games? In todays NFL, DCs get game film on a QB for two games and they basically have enough data to develope a defensive game plan that will create problems. Not saying that Romo or Henson do not have skills but it's tough for an inexperienced QB to deal with the adjustments that have to be made against a talented and motivated defensive unit. It all comes down to seeing it before. This, more then anything else, is why I believe it's a good idea to have an experienced back up.

You hope we can put together a good rushing attack and a steller defense and not put all the pressue on the QB.

[RCowboyFan]

To me, the real problem with both Henson and Romo are what happens after two games? In todays NFL, DCs get game film on a QB for two games and they basically have enough data to develope a defensive game plan that will create problems. Not saying that Romo or Henson do not have skills but it's tough for an inexperienced QB to deal with the adjustments that have to be made against a talented and motivated defensive unit. It all comes down to seeing it before. This, more then anything else, is why I believe it's a good idea to have an experienced back up.

Yeah, but you can't play ifs and buts all life. You can have all the talent in world, but if you are never given the chance no one will ever know.

Who the heck knew Brady was going to be that good or who knew of Kurt Warner? Or who knew Jake Delhomme would turn up to be such a good FA QB?

Now if Romo or Henson were first year QBs, I would say I would be worried too. Not that I am totally worry free right now, but I think concern is bit overblown. Probably because I guess many cowboys think Cowboys have good SB chance, but if these guys are going to be future of Cowboys, they have to be tested sometime.

[ABQCOWBOY]

It really doesn't matter anyway what any of us think on this issue- not that it can't be discussed. But Romo/Henson is what we're going with end of story. And for 2-3 games it would be ok. 4-5 games? Odds are against all but a few teams surviving their starting QB going down that long. But Bledsoe is a rock anyway. Worrying about him getting hurt is like wearing a belt in case your suspenders fail- possible but unlikely. I'm a lot more worried about injuries to the OL- those are much bigger risks and we're still not in great shape if they do.


I agree that it doesn't matter what anybody thinks except BP. Having said that, I am not so certain that Romo and Henson are what were going with. BP says things but if you look at him, he always kinda comes back home to his roots. His roots, in this case (at least according to Parcells himself) is the 3 year rule. Show me something. This is something that BP has taken from Landry and has used throughout his career. He also leans heavily towards tried and true Vets. It just seems odd that if we were good enough to do something in the playoffs, BP would allow two unexperienced backups to anchor at the 2 spot. Historically, Bledsoe has been very durable. On the other hand, it takes one unlucky moment. At some point, you have to believe that the law of averages catches even the fleetest runner. How long can his luck last? Heck, we've gone for 4 straight seasons with no injuries to the starting QB. Two years with Quincy, one with Vinnie and one with Bledsoe. How long can it continue? I don't know. It just seems a prudent move IMO. Hypothetically, if we went into the Thanks Giving day game 8-2 or 7-3 and managed to sustain injury to Bledsoe, it would be horrible to end up losing 4 of the last six or even 3 for 3. In our division, one game will make the difference. I just have a real hard time believing that if BP believe we have a team, he would be OK with our current QB situation. JMO of course and we all know who's opinion counts.

[ABQCOWBOY]

You hope we can put together a good rushing attack and a steller defense and not put all the pressue on the QB.


As you know Dooms, I am a big big believer in a strong running game, ball control offense and a kick arse defense but I also believe that good teams and good coaching staffs can game plan a team who is difficiant in any area. I fear that if we don't have an answer at our back up QB, that can be turned against us when it counts.

[RCowboyFan]

As you know Dooms, I am a big big believer in a strong running game, ball control offense and a kick arse defense but I also believe that good teams and good coaching staffs can game plan a team who is difficiant in any area. I fear that if we don't have an answer at our back up QB, that can be turned against us when it counts.

I think the problem is you haven't thought about who is out there in FA, lets say can save Cowboys or win for Cowboys in a playoff game? Right now no one. So not sure you can answer there in FA.

Current backups and anyone in FA are as much of question marks. Heck I fear, relying on Bledsoe that much itself is a risk, considering his recent history in key games. So basically, even in Bledsoe's case, its a 50/50 proposition anyway, i.e. he has come up big in some games and some games he has failed. So key again is OL/D/Running game and hope that TO effect is really good on WRs/TE. With that, Bledsoe might flourish and same with current young ones.

You just have to trust what BP and Jerry say, when they say they are comfortable with their QBs. I personally seen enough, from both college and recent NFLE that Henson can do the job. I am also not too discouraged about Romo as limited as he might be in some cases, that he might not be able to do the job if required. Either case, if injury happens in Playoffs, I guess it will be done and over.

Now if someone like Brian Griese is available, I would think, that would be a good option. Not someone like Kerry Collins.

[ABQCOWBOY]

Yeah, but you can't play ifs and buts all life. You can have all the talent in world, but if you are never given the chance no one will ever know.

Who the heck knew Brady was going to be that good or who knew of Kurt Warner? Or who knew Jake Delhomme would turn up to be such a good FA QB?

Now if Romo or Henson were first year QBs, I would say I would be worried too. Not that I am totally worry free right now, but I think concern is bit overblown. Probably because I guess many cowboys think Cowboys have good SB chance, but if these guys are going to be future of Cowboys, they have to be tested sometime.

There coaching staffs knew is the simple answer here. Having said that, your example here applies if your looking at one inexperienced QB. It doesn't fly with two. Why would you do this with two? I guess I just don't believe in developing two young QBs. You evaluate young QBs, then you invest in the guy who is the best fit. To me, developing two only draws out the development cycle.

In the end, you hope for the best but you plan for the worst. That, IMO, is what needs to happen for our organization IMO.

[Doomsday101]

As you know Dooms, I am a big big believer in a strong running game, ball control offense and a kick arse defense but I also believe that good teams and good coaching staffs can game plan a team who is difficiant in any area. I fear that if we don't have an answer at our back up QB, that can be turned against us when it counts.

If we can put together a team who can run and a defense that can shut people down then yes I think the young guys can do the job.

[ABQCOWBOY]

I think the problem is you haven't thought about who is out there in FA, lets say can save Cowboys or win for Cowboys in a playoff game? Right now no one. So not sure you can answer there in FA.

Current backups and anyone in FA are as much of question marks. Heck I fear, relying on Bledsoe that much itself is a risk, considering his recent history in key games. So basically, even in Bledsoe's case, its a 50/50 proposition anyway, i.e. he has come up big in some games and some games he has failed. So key again is OL/D/Running game and hope that TO effect is really good on WRs/TE. With that, Bledsoe might flourish and same with current young ones.

You just have to trust what BP and Jerry say, when they say they are comfortable with their QBs. I personally seen enough, from both college and recent NFLE that Henson can do the job. I am also not too discouraged about Romo as limited as he might be in some cases, that he might not be able to do the job if required. Either case, if injury happens in Playoffs, I guess it will be done and over.

Now if someone like Brian Griese is available, I would think, that would be a good option. Not someone like Kerry Collins.

I don't think that's the problem at all. This is not really about who is there, per say. It's more a phylisophical question. I do not believe that there are no QBs out there that can't do the job. I mean, if you brought a guy in mid season, then yeah. However, if you brought a guy in who had experience early, there's no reason they can't learn the offense. Even an average QB with experinece, IMO, would be a better fit for us then a QB who had no game experience at all. I mean, if we say that were building a team that can go lean on a strong defense and superior running game to help us through with Romo/Henson as the backup, how then can we not say that if we had an experienced Vet s the number two, these same principles would not be an even bigger asset in favor of that stratigy?

[DLCassidy]

I agree that it doesn't matter what anybody thinks except BP. Having said that, I am not so certain that Romo and Henson are what were going with. BP says things but if you look at him, he always kinda comes back home to his roots. His roots, in this case (at least according to Parcells himself) is the 3 year rule. Show me something. This is something that BP has taken from Landry and has used throughout his career. He also leans heavily towards tried and true Vets. It just seems odd that if we were good enough to do something in the playoffs, BP would allow two unexperienced backups to anchor at the 2 spot. Historically, Bledsoe has been very durable. On the other hand, it takes one unlucky moment. At some point, you have to believe that the law of averages catches even the fleetest runner. How long can his luck last? Heck, we've gone for 4 straight seasons with no injuries to the starting QB. Two years with Quincy, one with Vinnie and one with Bledsoe. How long can it continue? I don't know. It just seems a prudent move IMO. Hypothetically, if we went into the Thanks Giving day game 8-2 or 7-3 and managed to sustain injury to Bledsoe, it would be horrible to end up losing 4 of the last six or even 3 for 3. In our division, one game will make the difference. I just have a real hard time believing that if BP believe we have a team, he would be OK with our current QB situation. JMO of course and we all know who's opinion counts.

I can't see us dumping a Romo, a guy who is well versed in our system, for an overpriced and underwhelming Collins who doesn't want to back up anyway. After Collins what seasoned vet is out there that you think we can go over .500 with? A bunch of flotsam and jetsam IMO. No, I think BP is pretty happy with Romo and he hasn't given up on Henson yet either.

The staff's interest in our backups has a LOT more to do with which of our 2 guys is future starter material, not which can play a few games for Bledsoe if he gets hurt IMO.

[ABQCOWBOY]

If we can put together a team who can run and a defense that can shut people down then yes I think the young guys can do the job.

Posted this in my previous but I go back to the idioligy that it is not a good idea to develop two young QBs. One is OK. Two slows progress IMO. Again, if you have a good defense and running game, how is that not going to work better in a situation where you have an average talented QB with good NFL experience as opposed to two young QBs who have no experience. In a situation where you have a great running game and defense, the thing that kills you is mistakes. Turnovers are the biggest disadvantage to winning games in that manner. It would seem to me that the experienced QB is going to be the better fit in that game plan. In that situation, you just need a QB who can execute the simple offense. Not the QB who may have more talent but has never seen the field IMO.

[Alexander]

If we can put together a team who can run and a defense that can shut people down then yes I think the young guys can do the job.

Not just run, but run well enough to control the clock and play tight defense.

It won Baltimore and before them, Chicago some Super Bowls. Dilfer, Steve Fuller and Jim McMahon were hardly top shelf talents. They simply had to execute the basics and not make mistakes.

[Doomsday101]

Posted this in my previous but I go back to the idioligy that it is not a good idea to develop two young QBs. One is OK. Two slows progress IMO. Again, if you have a good defense and running game, how is that not going to work better in a situation where you have an average talented QB with good NFL experience as opposed to two young QBs who have no experience. In a situation where you have a great running game and defense, the thing that kills you is mistakes. Turnovers are the biggest disadvantage to winning games in that manner. It would seem to me that the experienced QB is going to be the better fit in that game plan. In that situation, you just need a QB who can execute the simple offense. Not the QB who may have more talent but has never seen the field IMO.

I agree with what your saying but I don't see a vet out there that is worth bringing in while we are in the process of developing young QB's. I also agree that your better off working with just 1 but that is not the case and I would hate to see Dallas ditch Romo or Henson for a washout like Collins, they may have a future Collins does not. Now Bill could have a change of heart if he does not see enough progress out of Henson or Romo this training camp. We will just have to wait and see.

[JackMagist]

As it stands now it looks like Romo will be the backup. If Bledsoe goes down we will get to see what Romo has on the field. If Romo goes down we will get another chance to see what Henson has on the field. This could change in TC and Henson could overtake Romo for the #2 job but then again he might not. I think we need to get used to the idea that Romo and Henson are locks for this year.

If we lose two of our current guys we will go out and get one of the gimps left on the FA market (Vinny anyone?). But we will not be going after any of the crap left out there unless something drastic happens. And even then I would hope that the emergency FA pickup would never see the field and our #3 guy would hold the starting job.

[Doomsday101]

Not just run, but run well enough to control the clock and play tight defense.

It won Baltimore and before them, Chicago some Super Bowls. Dilfer, Steve Fuller and Jim McMahon were hardly top shelf talents. They simply had to execute the basics and not make mistakes.

That is why I made sure to say a consistant running game. Not 1 big run now and then but an attack that can consistantly move the ball. If you can do that then you also help yourself and young QB's because it will slow down the pass rush and allow them a bit more comfort in the pocket.

[JackMagist]

Posted this in my previous but I go back to the idioligy that it is not a good idea to develop two young QBs. One is OK. Two slows progress IMO. Again, if you have a good defense and running game, how is that not going to work better in a situation where you have an average talented QB with good NFL experience as opposed to two young QBs who have no experience. In a situation where you have a great running game and defense, the thing that kills you is mistakes. Turnovers are the biggest disadvantage to winning games in that manner. It would seem to me that the experienced QB is going to be the better fit in that game plan. In that situation, you just need a QB who can execute the simple offense. Not the QB who may have more talent but has never seen the field IMO.I completely disagree with that. I think it is the best idea to have no more than One vet who has played for another team and that vet should be the starter. If your primary backup is a vet with experience on other teams then he is a washed up has been (don't need that) or was never good enough to make it with another team (why would we think he was good enough for us?).

Nope, give me that one vet starter and a couple of young studs learning the ropes behind him and getting ready to go when their number is called. It always worked well for Tom Landry.

[ABQCOWBOY]

I can't see us dumping a Romo, a guy who is well versed in our system, for an overpriced and underwhelming Collins who doesn't want to back up anyway. After Collins what seasoned vet is out there that you think we can go over .500 with? A bunch of flotsam and jetsam IMO. No, I think BP is pretty happy with Romo and he hasn't given up on Henson yet either.

The staff's interest in our backups has a LOT more to do with which of our 2 guys is future starter material, not which can play a few games for Bledsoe if he gets hurt IMO.


What does this have to do with Collins? There will be an experienced QB in FA that can be signed. There is always one out there. That's really not the point. As I said earlier, this is a matter of philosiphy as opposed to who can we sign today.

It is my experience that I could throw up any name and it would be shot down as too expensive or too old or whatever the case. We have had opportunity to sign lots of Vet QBs in the past. We had opportunity to sign Griese. We had opportunity to sign Johnson. We had opportunity to sign Warner. We did not do it for one reason or another. There will be QBs out there. I don't know if we will sign one but I know that I believe we should. If a guy like McNair became available, Iwould do it. I would have signed Harrington. Shawn King is available right now. He's definatly not my first choice but he is out there. I don't know what Kitna's story is but he too would be the kind of vet I'd be interested in. I mean, if you really look at it, I don't know how you couldn't look at Collins and say he's a better chance of winning then if you had to play Romo or Henson for 5 games. Not saying he's the best option but I think he would be better then what we have right now. Not long term but to play 4 or 5 games, absolutly. JMO

[ABQCOWBOY]

I completely disagree with that. I think it is the best idea to have no more than One vet who has played for another team and that vet should be the starter. If your primary backup is a vet with experience on other teams then he is a washed up has been (don't need that) or was never good enough to make it with another team (why would we think he was good enough for us?).

Nope, give me that one vet starter and a couple of young studs learning the ropes behind him and getting ready to go when their number is called. It always worked well for Tom Landry.

Really, I don't remember it ever working particularly well for coach Landry. Besides that, you can't look at that situation and say it will work today. In those days, you had opportunity to develope players. Lets be clear here. Were not talking about young bucks ready to go when there called on. Were talking about two young QBs, one of which has never thrown a pass in the NFL and the other that has played one half. That's a great deal to overcome against a quality team and lets also make clear that in the NFC East, all you have are quality teams. I just don't agree.

[DLCassidy]

What does this have to do with Collins? There will be an experienced QB in FA that can be signed. There is always one out there. That's really not the point. As I said earlier, this is a matter of philosiphy as opposed to who can we sign today.

It is my experience that I could throw up any name and it would be shot down as too expensive or too old or whatever the case. We have had opportunity to sign lots of Vet QBs in the past. We had opportunity to sign Griese. We had opportunity to sign Johnson. We had opportunity to sign Warner. We did not do it for one reason or another. There will be QBs out there. I don't know if we will sign one but I know that I believe we should. If a guy like McNair became available, Iwould do it. I would have signed Harrington. Shawn King is available right now. He's definatly not my first choice but he is out there. I don't know what Kitna's story is but he too would be the kind of vet I'd be interested in. I mean, if you really look at it, I don't know how you couldn't look at Collins and say he's a better chance of winning then if you had to play Romo or Henson for 5 games. Not saying he's the best option but I think he would be better then what we have right now. Not long term but to play 4 or 5 games, absolutly. JMO

BP is always looking to upgrade the team and backup QB is fair game- that's a given. But when it comes down to it, the player needs to be available, it needs to be an economic fit, a match of skills for our system, and it needs to be a guy who's willing to watch but good enough to play. I mention Collins because he's the only name I can think of that is worth a conversation (even though I wouldn't really want him). Lacking one of those unusual guys that I'm at a loss to name it goes back to the original point about back ups being backups for a reason and you generally don't win with them for any significant period of time anyway. Feel free to go down the list of the playoff teams from last year and make a case their backup QB's give their teams a significantly better chance to win than Romo/Henson. Bet you can't.

Dallas considered Harrington- in the end they felt he wasn't worth giving up a pick and a salary not too far below Bledsoe's. And if most of your experience says you suck, is that still a plus? Kitna is under contract and will likely start for Detroit. McNair supposedly has a deal waiting to be signed with the Ravens that includes a ridiculous 11m signing bonus. Shawn King is not an NFL QB- either of our guys are 10x better than he is IMO. What we did/didn't do years ago isn't really relevant to the backup QB question today, is it? So correct me if I'm wrong but it appears your list starts and ends with Collins.:laugh1:

[JackMagist]

Really, I don't remember it ever working particularly well for coach Landry. Besides that, you can't look at that situation and say it will work today. In those days, you had opportunity to develope players. Lets be clear here. Were not talking about young bucks ready to go when there called on. Were talking about two young QBs, one of which has never thrown a pass in the NFL and the other that has played one half. That's a great deal to overcome against a quality team and lets also make clear that in the NFC East, all you have are quality teams. I just don't agree.Landry started off with Eddie LeBarron (vet from another team) and Dandy Don as his backup. Then Dandy Don became the vet starter and had Craig Morton and Jerry Rome behind him (both rookies in Dallas). Then Craig Morton became the vet starter and had Roger Staubach as his backup (a rookie with Dallas). Then Roger had Clint Longley (we won't go there but he was a rookie with Dallas) and then Danny White (a rookie with Dallas if you don't count a year of WFL). Let’s see...that's Merideth, Morton, Staubach, and White...that would be Four times it worked very well for Tom Landry. I'll go with the formula that produces that kind of results.

BTW of those 4 guys I think they were all starters by their 4th year (except White). So why would the formula not work now?

[baj1dallas]

If you go get an "experienced" QB, you're never going to find out about Romo or Henson. I think if Bledsoe gets hurt, you finally get your chance to see what (in all likelihood) Romo can do. If he fails, there's always Henson. If he fails, now you know you need to go after somebody else.

It doesn't make any sense to spend all this time developing these guys, then cut them for some overpriced has been, when odds are that Bledsoe is not going to go down for an extended period of time anyway.

[Angus]

Tom Landry did have a three year rule: for seeing progress toward a starting position, and Parcells has adopted it. But Landry also maintained that it took a young quarterback five years to really play the game well. Of course, until he plays he will not prove progress. Both young quarterbacks (not counting Mroz) have had years to imbibe Parcells' system by osmosis -- Romo more than Henson. I do not think Bledsoe will play 16 games this year, so we should all see how well they have learned the craft. I think the team will do well anyhow.

[ABQCOWBOY]

BP is always looking to upgrade the team and backup QB is fair game- that's a given. But when it comes down to it, the player needs to be available, it needs to be an economic fit, a match of skills for our system, and it needs to be a guy who's willing to watch but good enough to play. I mention Collins because he's the only name I can think of that is worth a conversation (even though I wouldn't really want him). Lacking one of those unusual guys that I'm at a loss to name it goes back to the original point about back ups being backups for a reason and you generally don't win with them for any significant period of time anyway. Feel free to go down the list of the playoff teams from last year and make a case their backup QB's give their teams a significantly better chance to win than Romo/Henson. Bet you can't.

Dallas considered Harrington- in the end they felt he wasn't worth giving up a pick and a salary not too far below Bledsoe's. And if most of your experience says you suck, is that still a plus? Kitna is under contract and will likely start for Detroit. McNair supposedly has a deal waiting to be signed with the Ravens that includes a ridiculous 11m signing bonus. Shawn King is not an NFL QB- either of our guys are 10x better than he is IMO. What we did/didn't do years ago isn't really relevant to the backup QB question today, is it? So correct me if I'm wrong but it appears your list starts and ends with Collins.:laugh1:

I don't know how it could not be relivant but if you choose to view it as such, I'm fine with that. I do agree that the situation would likely have to be both economically and potentially right. That's the problem IMO. Your not going to get that because anybody who has those skills already has a job in the NFL. You gotta pay for that skill just like any other and it is a skill set.

You can't? Is that an opinion your giving there? I think it is. I would say that New England was better off. I would say that Pittsburgh was better off. I'd say the Redskins are better off. I'd say NY was better off. I'd say Tampa Bay was better off. I'd say Chicago was better off. This, of course, is just my opinion but I'd have to say that it's a far cry from not being able to say that no playoff team had a better situation then we currently have. Just can not agree with that.

I look at Harrington and if it is as you say, his salary demands were just a bit under Bledsoe's, then I honestly don't have a huge problem with that. I don't feel as if Bledsoe's contract is bad at all . In fact, it's pretty good IMO. Does Harrington Suck? That, I suppose is debatable. What are you looking for in a back up? His QB rating was 72. He 57% of his passes. He had 12 TDs and 12 INTs. How good do you want him to be, as the backup? Are we going to say that either of our two backup QBs are going to post better numbers then this if forced into action? Don't know how you could ever support a position such as that. Kitna is under contract now but clearly, he's just moved so evidently he was available at some point, had we elected to go that route. Shawn King may or may not be an NFL QB but that doesn't prove that our current QBs are any better. That's the whole point. This brings us back to Collins. I find it amuzing that you would laugh. Please show any proof that Collins would not, in fact, be a better back up solution to what we currently have. My list may start with Collins, as you put it, or end with him. Either way, you really don't have to go any further then Collins. What does that say about our back up QB situation? You may feel free to laugh now.

[ABQCOWBOY]

Landry started off with Eddie LeBarron (vet from another team) and Dandy Don as his backup. Then Dandy Don became the vet starter and had Craig Morton and Jerry Rome behind him (both rookies in Dallas). Then Craig Morton became the vet starter and had Roger Staubach as his backup (a rookie with Dallas). Then Roger had Clint Longley (we won't go there but he was a rookie with Dallas) and then Danny White (a rookie with Dallas if you don't count a year of WFL). Let’s see...that's Merideth, Morton, Staubach, and White...that would be Four times it worked very well for Tom Landry. I'll go with the formula that produces that kind of results.

BTW of those 4 guys I think they were all starters by their 4th year (except White). So why would the formula not work now?.

In 1960, the Cowboys signed LaBaron. The back up was Don Heinrich, a 7 year vet who broke in with the Giants. Dandy Don eventually became the starter in, I want to say 63. That year, roles reversed and the Mad Boomer became the back up. The third QB was a guy by the name of Jim Steiger, I believe. He was actually a FB. In 65, we drafted two QBs. One was Rhome, the other was Craig. This lasted till 67. In 68, Rhome was injured, I believe and was subsequently traded to Cleveland. 69 was really the first year Morton became the starter. That's the same year Roger joined the Cowboys. In 71, Roger became the starter. In 72 he was injured. In 73, he again became the starter. In 74, Longly was drafted out of Abilene Christian. Staubach was the starter, Morton was the Vet and Longly was the rookie. In 75, Morton was shipped to Denver. In 76, Longly was gone, White was signed from the World League. In 78, Glenn Carano was drafted out of UNLV. This lasted until 79 when Roger retired. In 80, white was the starter and Glenn Carono the back up. In 80, Gary "Hogenbloom" was drafted out of Central Michigan. In 1984, Pelluer out of Washington was drafted. In 86, White was injured and Collier was drafted out of Souther Miss. That year, Pelluer was forced to play, having thrown a total of 5 passes in two seasons and we all know how that worked. In 87, Kevin Sweeney was drafted out of Fresno and White played the majority of snaps with Pelluer getting roughly a third of the playing time. In 88, Pelluer became the starter, White was the back up and Sweeny was the third guy. In 89, Sweeney was gone, White was gone and Pelluer was gone and so was coach Landry. It seems to me that in the years we were succesful, we had Starter, solid Vet. In the years we were not so good, we did not have this.

[JackMagist]

.

In 1960, the Cowboys signed LaBaron. The back up was Don Heinrich, a 7 year vet who broke in with the Giants. Dandy Don eventually became the starter in, I want to say 63. That year, roles reversed and the Mad Boomer became the back up. The third QB was a guy by the name of Jim Steiger, I believe. He was actually a FB. In 65, we drafted two QBs. One was Rhome, the other was Craig. This lasted till 67. In 68, Rhome was injured, I believe and was subsequently traded to Cleveland. 69 was really the first year Morton became the starter. That's the same year Roger joined the Cowboys. In 71, Roger became the starter. In 72 he was injured. In 73, he again became the starter. In 74, Longly was drafted out of Abilene Christian. Staubach was the starter, Morton was the Vet and Longly was the rookie. In 75, Morton was shipped to Denver. In 76, Longly was gone, White was signed from the World League. In 78, Glenn Carano was drafted out of UNLV. This lasted until 79 when Roger retired. In 80, white was the starter and Glenn Carono the back up. In 80, Gary "Hogenbloom" was drafted out of Central Michigan. In 1984, Pelluer out of Washington was drafted. In 86, White was injured and Collier was drafted out of Souther Miss. That year, Pelluer was forced to play, having thrown a total of 5 passes in two seasons and we all know how that worked. In 87, Kevin Sweeney was drafted out of Fresno and White played the majority of snaps with Pelluer getting roughly a third of the playing time. In 88, Pelluer became the starter, White was the back up and Sweeny was the third guy. In 89, Sweeney was gone, White was gone and Pelluer was gone and so was coach Landry. It seems to me that in the years we were succesful, we had Starter, solid Vet. In the years we were not so good, we did not have this.Yeah there were a lot of others that came and went but the Four guys that I mentioned were all rookies for Dallas who were or soon became the primary backup and then became the starter. It is the formula that created the most success for Dallas under Landry. That was my point.

All these other guys that you have to go look up to even know that they were on the team are irrelevant. I don't recall any of them saving us in a big game (except Longley) or saving our season back then. The system did fall apart there at the end of the Landry era because he (Landry) started second-guessing his starters after White failed to get past the NFC Title game three years running and the team began to go into decline. Then Tom started playing young QB's before they were ready (Hogeboom and Pelluer) which is part of the reason that we were in the position to draft Aikman.

But in his Hey Day Landry more often than not had young developmental QB's as his primary backup...or at least backup's who started out as young developmental QB's. I still prefer that system over having the Has Been/Never Was vet as a backup.

[DLCassidy]

I don't know how it could not be relivant but if you choose to view it as such, I'm fine with that. I do agree that the situation would likely have to be both economically and potentially right. That's the problem IMO. Your not going to get that because anybody who has those skills already has a job in the NFL. You gotta pay for that skill just like any other and it is a skill set.

You can't? Is that an opinion your giving there? I think it is. I would say that New England was better off. I would say that Pittsburgh was better off. I'd say the Redskins are better off. I'd say NY was better off. I'd say Tampa Bay was better off. I'd say Chicago was better off. This, of course, is just my opinion but I'd have to say that it's a far cry from not being able to say that no playoff team had a better situation then we currently have. Just can not agree with that.

I look at Harrington and if it is as you say, his salary demands were just a bit under Bledsoe's, then I honestly don't have a huge problem with that. I don't feel as if Bledsoe's contract is bad at all . In fact, it's pretty good IMO. Does Harrington Suck? That, I suppose is debatable. What are you looking for in a back up? His QB rating was 72. He 57% of his passes. He had 12 TDs and 12 INTs. How good do you want him to be, as the backup? Are we going to say that either of our two backup QBs are going to post better numbers then this if forced into action? Don't know how you could ever support a position such as that. Kitna is under contract now but clearly, he's just moved so evidently he was available at some point, had we elected to go that route. Shawn King may or may not be an NFL QB but that doesn't prove that our current QBs are any better. That's the whole point. This brings us back to Collins. I find it amuzing that you would laugh. Please show any proof that Collins would not, in fact, be a better back up solution to what we currently have. My list may start with Collins, as you put it, or end with him. Either way, you really don't have to go any further then Collins. What does that say about our back up QB situation? You may feel free to laugh now.

Hey I'm just joshing you, no offense intended. I can see where you're coming from- it just appears you're uncomfortable with our guys lack of experience. That's understandable. My reason for not being worried is BP sees our guys in practice every day and he appears comfortable- that's good enough for me. Especially since I feel very comfortable with Bledsoe's durability and if he was hurt for a significant period of time I think we're pretty much screwed anyway. So eat, drink and be merry I say!

I wasn't laughing at Collins BTW, it was mostly at the fact that he is the only real possibility out there now and it's rumored he's seriously considering retirement. If he was willing to come in for relatively short money with the understanding it was as a backup only, sure I wouldn't mind it. But I just can't see that as being likely. So I think we're "stuck" with what we have.