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September 12, 2009 7:57 PM
Posted by ESPN.com's Matt Mosley
I think most of us agree that the Cowboys have more talent (and experience) than the Bucs. But it's still worth taking a look at some of the key matchups.
I actually think the Cowboys could have trouble with the Bucs' two tight ends. But eventually DeMarcus Ware is going to get to Byron Leftwich -- and more than once or twice.
In his key matchups breakdown, Dallas Morning News blogger Tim MacMahon calls Aqib Talib and Ronde Barber an "outstanding" cornerback tandem. Really?
That's not exactly how I would describe Barber at this stage of his career. And Talib still has a lot to prove. I think Talib and Barber comprise a pretty mediocre cornerback tandem at this point.
Breaking down the Cowboys-Bucs matchups
4:00 PM Sat, Sep 12, 2009 | Permalink | Yahoo! Buzz
Tim MacMahon/Blogger http://www.***BANNED-URL***/blogs/images/bio-icon.jpg Bio | http://www.***BANNED-URL***/blogs/images/email-icon.jpg E-mail | http://www.***BANNED-URL***/blogs/images/email-icon.jpg News tips
Quick takes on the matchups when the Cowboys meet the Bucs at Raymond James Stadium:
When the Cowboys run
The Buccaneers contained Marion Barber (25 carries, 71 yards) last season, but that was with Brad Johnson under center. They'll have to respect Tony Romo's throwing ability, which should open up lanes for Barber, Felix Jones and perhaps Tashard Choice.
EDGE: Cowboys
When the Cowboys pass
Aqib Talib and Ronde Barber form an outstanding cornerback tandem, meaning this might not be a big game for Roy Williams. However, with free safety Tanard Jackson suspended, the Tampa Bay secondary could be vulnerable. LT Flozell Adams' performance against DE Gaines Adams (two sacks vs. Cowboys last season) will be a key.
EDGE: Cowboys
When the Buccaneers run
Like the Cowboys, the Bucs believe they have a heck of a tailback trio in Cadillac Williams, Derrick Ward and Earnest Graham. Ward has given the Cowboys problems in the past, averaging 5.5 yards per carry against them as a Giant.
EDGE: Buccaneers
When the Buccaneers pass
New Tampa Bay QB Byron Leftwich hasn't had much time to work with receivers Antonio Bryant and Michael Clayton due to injuries. The Cowboys upgraded their secondary at two spots (right cornerback and strong safety) since last season.
EDGE: Cowboys
Special teams
The inconsistent preseason performance of the Cowboys' coverage units didn't inspire any confidence that the Cowboys special teams would be significantly improved under new coordinator Joe DeCamillis. Tampa Bay return specialist Clifton Smith can turn a crease into six points.
EDGE: Buccaneers
Intangibles
The Cowboys have morphed into an all-business bunch, and winning in September hasn't been a problem under Wade Phillips (7-1). Tampa Bay appears to be a franchise in disarray with major turnover in its starting lineup and coaching staff.
EDGE: Cowboys
Posted by ESPN.com's Matt Mosley
I think most of us agree that the Cowboys have more talent (and experience) than the Bucs. But it's still worth taking a look at some of the key matchups.
I actually think the Cowboys could have trouble with the Bucs' two tight ends. But eventually DeMarcus Ware is going to get to Byron Leftwich -- and more than once or twice.
In his key matchups breakdown, Dallas Morning News blogger Tim MacMahon calls Aqib Talib and Ronde Barber an "outstanding" cornerback tandem. Really?
That's not exactly how I would describe Barber at this stage of his career. And Talib still has a lot to prove. I think Talib and Barber comprise a pretty mediocre cornerback tandem at this point.
Breaking down the Cowboys-Bucs matchups
4:00 PM Sat, Sep 12, 2009 | Permalink | Yahoo! BuzzTim MacMahon/Blogger http://www.***BANNED-URL***/blogs/images/bio-icon.jpg Bio | http://www.***BANNED-URL***/blogs/images/email-icon.jpg E-mail | http://www.***BANNED-URL***/blogs/images/email-icon.jpg News tips
Quick takes on the matchups when the Cowboys meet the Bucs at Raymond James Stadium:
When the Cowboys run
The Buccaneers contained Marion Barber (25 carries, 71 yards) last season, but that was with Brad Johnson under center. They'll have to respect Tony Romo's throwing ability, which should open up lanes for Barber, Felix Jones and perhaps Tashard Choice.
EDGE: Cowboys
When the Cowboys pass
Aqib Talib and Ronde Barber form an outstanding cornerback tandem, meaning this might not be a big game for Roy Williams. However, with free safety Tanard Jackson suspended, the Tampa Bay secondary could be vulnerable. LT Flozell Adams' performance against DE Gaines Adams (two sacks vs. Cowboys last season) will be a key.
EDGE: Cowboys
When the Buccaneers run
Like the Cowboys, the Bucs believe they have a heck of a tailback trio in Cadillac Williams, Derrick Ward and Earnest Graham. Ward has given the Cowboys problems in the past, averaging 5.5 yards per carry against them as a Giant.
EDGE: Buccaneers
When the Buccaneers pass
New Tampa Bay QB Byron Leftwich hasn't had much time to work with receivers Antonio Bryant and Michael Clayton due to injuries. The Cowboys upgraded their secondary at two spots (right cornerback and strong safety) since last season.
EDGE: Cowboys
Special teams
The inconsistent preseason performance of the Cowboys' coverage units didn't inspire any confidence that the Cowboys special teams would be significantly improved under new coordinator Joe DeCamillis. Tampa Bay return specialist Clifton Smith can turn a crease into six points.
EDGE: Buccaneers
Intangibles
The Cowboys have morphed into an all-business bunch, and winning in September hasn't been a problem under Wade Phillips (7-1). Tampa Bay appears to be a franchise in disarray with major turnover in its starting lineup and coaching staff.
EDGE: Cowboys
