Please don't kill the messenger...................
Count LaDainian Tomlinson, the TCU star and Chargers standout running back, in the camp of those who feel DeMarco Murray could have gained more yards last season.
What I do like about what LT had to say is, "Murray knows his strengths".
This is only news to those who think that Murray is the reason for the Cowboys 12-4 season last year. Those people also think that Murray is the best RB since sliced bread. Murray is a good RB that used his size and intelligence to his advantage. Like LT stated: "Murray knows his strengths". This is not a knock on Murray. I wouldn't have been upset with his return because we all knew what he would give you,
IF he stays healthy. Unfortunately that was a big if. I honestly believe the multiple injuries and games missed is what ultimately showed him the door. And I don't blame the FO for thinking this way. I mean.. although Murray is a solid RB, can you really commit long term to a 27yo RB that has been injured every year that he's been in the league? He's not Emmitt Smith. Emmitt rarely missed games. You could always count on him. The FO knows that couldn't say the same about Murray. Murray knew this too. Thus, taking questionable angles, running out of bounds, and still couldn't hold onto the ball better. The main reason for Murrays production last year is several factors. He had a "tier 2" QB, arguably the top TE, WR, OL, and the organizations commitment to run the ball. And I wont go into how convenient it is that players have "break-out' production during a contract year when they know their about to get paid. Unfortunately for Murray, he will not have the same commitment from Philthy and thus
will not come close to the season he had last year. I applaud the Jones (mainly Stephen) for finally NOT overpaying for yesterdays production.
LT and Emmitt have both "been there and done that" when it comes to knowing what it takes to be a Star at the runningback position. Both were considered the best during their time as a RB. Although Murray had a great season and out produced the competition by almost 500 yards, most people still don't consider him the best RB in the league. So when the Rushing Champion and Top Cowboy RB of all time thinks Murray could have done better... I tend to agree. I truly believe if Murray had more speed he could have destroyed the single season record. That's where this years stable of RB's come in. The one thing they all have in common is speed. I will not compare Murray to any of the present RBs on this team bc I don't think any of them have the same smash mouth style that Murray has.. and I'll admit.. that will be missed. But to shrug off Randle, McFadden, Dunbar, and Williams as if they don't have talent themselves is a big mistake. These guys bring a totally different element to the run game that Murray never allowed on the field. (I wonder why). They bring the "avoid" element. Rather than seek contact, these guys tend to make moves or run past a defender to avoid contact. Couple that with the huge running lanes that the OL gives to gain momentum.. you have yourself the opportunity to take it to the house on every play. I cant wait to see them battle it out for the right to be the lead dog. I cant wait to quite all the naysayers that predict Dallas's demise. The FO has finally found the "secret-sauce" and I hope they keep pouring it on. GO COWBOYS!!
