ESPN Clayton: Will Austin have a big impact on Dallas offense?

[WoodysGirl]

Originally Published: May 18, 2009
By John Clayton
ESPN.com

<snip>

&#8230; Vinny in New York is a die-hard Cowboys fan and asks whether I believe Miles Austin will make a big impact on the Dallas offense. At best, he's the fourth option, so I don't see a huge impact. Much more will depend on how Roy Williams and Patrick Crayton do. &#8230;

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=clayton_john&id=4202976

 

[pgreptom]

How is the the 4th option? He was taking 2nd WR reps from Crayton last year before he got hurt. Stop looking at nfl.com depth charts, Clayton.

 

[Boyzmamacita]

How is the the 4th option? He was taking 2nd WR reps from Crayton last year before he got hurt. Stop looking at nfl.com depth charts, Clayton.

What else can Clayton do? His homework? Naw, that would be work. Any one of us can do the same "reporting" these so-called professionals do.

 

[CATCH17]

How is the the 4th option? He was taking 2nd WR reps from Crayton last year before he got hurt. Stop looking at nfl.com depth charts, Clayton.

Local guys usually know a lot more about this kind of stuff than the National guys.

Most will even admit to it too.

 

[tunahelper]

Maybe Austin will be 4th option in the total number of receptions?
His real value will be measured in his ability to challenge defenses vertically and making them account for his speed.
I see him in the Alvin Harper type role with his deep speed.

 

[theogt]

Ah hell, might as well cut him now.

 

[slick325]

Maybe Austin will be 4th option in the total number of receptions?
His real value will be measured in his ability to challenge defenses vertically and making them account for his speed.
I see him in the Alvin Harper type role with his deep speed.

I think you hit the nail on the head. I think Clayton is correct in his response. Garrett's offense, in particular the passing game, will probably be more geared to having Witten be the 1st option, RW11 being 2nd, Felix and Marty B also probably rank ahead of Austin (in regard to having plays called for them) and Crayton (specifically on 3rd downs) will still be a Romo favorite I'm sure.

However, as you point out so astutely, "his real value will be measured in his ability to challenge defenses veritically and making them account for his speed." I will add that his ability to beat one on one coverage is important as well. That is what made Alvin Harper work in Dallas, he capitalized on one on one matchups and became a good deep threat.

Good post Tunahelper.

 

[Arch Stanton]

I guess Clayton missed Jerry cut....you know who.

 

[LatinMind]

How is the the 4th option?

i dont see that as a far stretch.

witten
roy
crayton

i can even see bennett as more of an option

austin

austin has to actually accomplish something before people can say he's already over crayton

 

[theogt]

i dont see that as a far stretch.

witten
roy
crayton

i can even see bennett as more of an option

austin

austin has to actually accomplish something before people can say he's already over crayton

Austin apparently has to accomplish something, but Bennett doesn't.

 

[Hoofbite]

How is the the 4th option? He was taking 2nd WR reps from Crayton last year before he got hurt. Stop looking at nfl.com depth charts, Clayton.

Hes 3rd AT BEST.

Williams and Witten, then whoever else.

Having a different opinion about the order of Crayton/Austin isn't exactly a sign he's and idiot.

 

[Real1st]

I liked what i seen from Austin last year before he got hurt. He is that speed at the WR we need. I hope he pushes his way into the #2 WR. I do not like Patrick i run as fast as a slug Crayton as a #2.

 

[DCBoysfan]

He would have taken Crayton's spot if not for his injury, I dont really care what people like Clayton says about the Cowboys, most poster's on CZ know more about the Cowboys than Johhn Clayton.

 

[dadymat]

Austin apparently has to accomplish something, but Bennett doesn't.

 

[burmafrd]

AUstin seemed to have beaten out Crayton for the #2 position before he was injured so if he comes back with no problems that should be the case this year as well. I disagree that Witten will be the #1; that is Roy Williams to lose.
BUT at the same time I do think that the difference in receptions between those two could be very small. IF Austin can burn some people for long gains and big plays then it would really open things up.

 

[Bluefin]

I disagree that Witten will be the #1; that is Roy Williams to lose.

#1 can be a bit confusing.

Terrell Owens was the most targeted pass catcher for the Cowboys the last two years.

But Jason Witten has led the team in actual receptions the past two seasons, if healthy, I see no reason he won't succeed in a three peat.

It's certainly possible for Roy Williams to unseat Witten if the wideout has a big season, just not likely, IMO.

Witten and Tony Romo have been on the same page for a long time.

 

[jobberone]

Austin looks like he may be a complete WR to me. I wouldn't be surprised if Austin eventually becomes our number one in the next few years. He should push Crayton for the number two spot.

Looki at it this way. We have two WRs competing for the number two spot. That's a good thing. Then add Bennett and Witten on top of that.

 

[Apollo Creed]

Austin is my prediction for breakout Cowboy this year. Romo said during camp last year that he is coming along really well. He can get behind the defense, and is started to become a much more fluid athlete. If he stays healthy, he will do fine.