Two teams that matched up this past Sunday have much in common. The Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys both have anemic records: the Lions are 2-8, the Cowboys are 3-7 this season. They should have the same record, but NFL officials cannot agree on what a catch is. The traditional teams playing on Thanksgiving, they are undoubtedly the turkeys of their respective divisions this year, but further analysis proves just to what extent.
Quarterbacks: Detroit and Dallas are going with plan b at the position after their starters got injured and ruled out for the season. Matthew Stafford’s tender right shoulder is the culprit while Tony Romo fractured his clavicle in late October in front of ninety two thousand fans in Arlington. Jon Kitna has performed admirably in mop up duty while Shaun Hill has been on more of a roller coaster ride.
He had nearly three hundred yards in the game on Sunday, but it took him forty seven attempts to compile that amount. In addition, his team only put up nineteen points for the game-which is well under the NFL average. This is especially the case now that defensive backs and lineman cannot hit anyone without looking over their shoulders or getting out their check books.
Receivers: Both teams are blessed in this department. Calvin Johnson is a man amongst boys. He only had six catches and forty six yards against the Cowboys, but his physical gifts are the best in the league since Randy Moss arrived on the scene from Marshall. Brandon Pettigrew and Nate Burleson round out a strong starting line-up. Each garnered at least seventy five yards receiving on Sunday. The Cowboys also have a young stud in Des Bryant. His stock fell due to character concerns prior to the draft. Jason Witten is a tight end that is in the top ten percent of the NFL in receiving skills at this position. Miles Austin only had two catches for seven yards against the Lions, but he is a capable third or fourth option for any team.
Coaches: Wade Phillips was on the hot seat prior to his dismissal, and the Lions coach is always in this position due to the franchise’s consistent lack of success. Jim Schwartz is building a young nucleus that he is trying to teach how to win. He has developed the current crop of top draft picks effectively.
Ndamukong Suh has a mean streak and desire that is refreshing in today’s reality of absurd amounts of guaranteed money to rookies. There is also hope in Dallas where Jason Garrett has the ship on the right path by restoring discipline and accountability to the organization. The Cowboys are the gold standard in the most popular league in professional sports. He was a highly compensated offensive coordinator prior to taking over. This product of Princeton will provide thoughtful game plans to fully utilize Romo and the receiving threats that I have previously mentioned.