THAT'S MY TAKE

Sunday Edition

October 14th, 2012 

That's My Take

Trouble in Dallas, But Romo Not Problem

With their implosion on Monday night against the Bears nearly two weeks ago, the Cowboys appear to be sinking once again, but is Tony Romo the real problem? Romo certainly has had the knack for flop performances on big stages and his 5 interceptions were no help, but he is hardly the problem.

It's easy to pick up the sports page on Tuesday morning read the numbers and point fingers, but if you did you would be missing a lot if the real picture.

There's a lot Romo needs to do and still learn to help get his team to the next level, but he can't do everything and he also can't catch his own passes. As much as Romo needs to do and improve, he also needs some help from his playmakers. In watching the Cowboys debacle on Monday against the Bears, there were many mistakes that did them in and not all were Romo's.

When your receivers are dropping very catchable passes at critical moments of the game, that will no doubt change the complexion or momentum and flow of the game, these mistakes stack up. Once you find yourself in a big hole, climbing out does not get easier, especially when the defense know what you will do; take shots downfield.

If the Cowboys and Tony Romo are going to get things moving in the right direction, they have to keep themselves out of big holes, and that starts with everyone doing what is expected. The offensive line needs to protect Romo when they pass and create openings for the run game; running back DeMarco Murray has just 106 yards rushing in his last three games and the offense is averaging just 2.8 yards per run. The pass can’t operate without the run.

As far as Romo getting better, he just needs a little help from his friends; players like Dez Bryant, Kevin Ogletree, and Miles Austin. If these guys can start making some of the regular plays expected (cut down the drops), Romo will have a much easier job that requires less risk taking and that will be key. Easier said than done.

That’s My Take

By David Ortega