Newman's status unknown2 Cornerback Terence Newman is one of the most important pieces of the Dallas defense, and he will test his injured right heel in pregame warm-ups. If he can't play, fourth-year player Jacques Reeves moves in as a starter. Reeves has been a valuable special teams player who also plays in the nickel packages. He played in 13 regular-season games last season and the playoff loss to Seattle. Reeves has one career start and probably will be targeted by the Giants offense. Reeves plays safe at corner and that can hinder his ability to make plays on the ball. He has eight career breakups but no interceptions.Rookie Spencer replaces Ellis3 The Cowboys will be without Greg Ellis, their most experienced pass rusher, and he could be out an extended time. That puts pressure on Pro Bowl outside linebacker DeMarcus Ware to be an even bigger factor. He had 11.5 sacks last season and Ellis' replacement, rookie first-round pick Anthony Spencer, needs to make some plays to keep some of the Giants' focus off Ware. Spencer did not distinguish himself during the preseason. He two tackles and no sacks in four preseason games. However, coach Wade Phillips said Spencer "picked it up a lot this week" and "looked like a linebacker."Phillips' 3-4 defense4 Coach Wade Phillips was brought to Dallas to fix the defense, and he has a proven record of rebuilding. His scheme is supposed to be more aggressive and pressure-based to put constant pressure on the quarterback. But how hampered will his plans be with a rookie outside linebacker (Anthony Spencer) and an injured Terence Newman? We'll find out tonight. In the meantime, there are other talented, well-paid athletes on the unit that will have to make plays. Linebacker Bradie James, safety Roy Williams and end Marcus Spears come to mind. Newly acquired safety Ken Hamlin is another potential playmaker.
