Dallas RB speculation (1 Viewer)

[podunker]

I just watched the rerun of the Denver preseason game and had some random thoughts about the Cowboys RB situation. I for the life of me can’t see why every so-called expert has Marion Barber higher than Julius Jones on their draft boards. I know, a keep hearing goal line specialist, short yardage specialist, etc, etc, etc. I’ve read the spotlights, and heard all the thoughts either way. The rankings are all based on the speculation that Barber is going to eventually take over for Jones as the guy, or at least be the more dominant and productive of the two backs. How can you really speculate on this based on the last few years productivity, when they have a new head coach, and offensive coordinator. If I became the new coach of a team I would not have any prejudgment whatsoever regarding those backs. I wouldn’t want the biases of the former head coach to effect my decisions on who to play in what situation. I think Garrett and Phillips will let the best RB play most of the time, period. As it’s playing out so far in the preseason, that looks to be Jones. He has been the starter. He finally has a decent line blocking for him. He played into the second quarter, like most of the starters did, and then Barber took over. I didn’t see any bias to give Barber the short yardage of goal line carries at all. As a matter of fact, the only reason Barber got the first TD in this game was because Denver called time out and then the Cowboys made the switch. They had not planned on subbing for Jones until the time out was called. I just don’t get it! IMO Jones is the better back. Barber has more size I’ll give him that much. I’ll take the home run hitter every time though. Sometimes you have to stop reading all the hype on the boards about players and just watch with your own eyes. This situation is very similar to the Foster/ Williams situation in Carolina. The big difference being that Carolina has the same coach. He still has his biases towards the RB’s. If they had a new coach in Carolina, I would think it very likely that Williams would be the starter. But for now, Foster is still the guy! You wouldn’t think so by his ADP. Although I see FBG is starting to see the light on this one. I think Jones is a steal at his ADP, and for that matter, so is Foster! Have a good day!

 

[Big Score]

Although Barber is clearly the fan favorite, Phillips and Garrett seem content to continue the status quo, meaning Jones would start and give way to Barber in short-yardage and red-zone situations.

But Garrett hinted Barber might get more action outside the red zone and on first and second downs this season. Tyson Thompson also could figure in the mix after shredding the Broncos' reserves for 75 yards on 16 carries in the second half.

"We're going to try to do some of the same things, and we're going to try to mix it up more," Garrett said. "Having both of those guys (Barber and Jones) getting touches is really good for us."

LinkEDIT: To put in link

 

[Pnishthm]

I just watched the rerun of the Denver preseason game and had some random thoughts about the Cowboys RB situation. I for the life of me can’t see why every so-called expert has Marion Barber higher than Julius Jones on their draft boards. I know, a keep hearing goal line specialist, short yardage specialist, etc, etc, etc. I’ve read the spotlights, and heard all the thoughts either way. The rankings are all based on the speculation that Barber is going to eventually take over for Jones as the guy, or at least be the more dominant and productive of the two backs. How can you really speculate on this based on the last few years productivity, when they have a new head coach, and offensive coordinator. If I became the new coach of a team I would not have any prejudgment whatsoever regarding those backs. I wouldn’t want the biases of the former head coach to effect my decisions on who to play in what situation. I think Garrett and Phillips will let the best RB play most of the time, period. As it’s playing out so far in the preseason, that looks to be Jones. He has been the starter. He finally has a decent line blocking for him. He played into the second quarter, like most of the starters did, and then Barber took over. I didn’t see any bias to give Barber the short yardage of goal line carries at all. As a matter of fact, the only reason Barber got the first TD in this game was because Denver called time out and then the Cowboys made the switch. They had not planned on subbing for Jones until the time out was called. I just don’t get it! IMO Jones is the better back. Barber has more size I’ll give him that much. I’ll take the home run hitter every time though. Sometimes you have to stop reading all the hype on the boards about players and just watch with your own eyes. This situation is very similar to the Foster/ Williams situation in Carolina. The big difference being that Carolina has the same coach. He still has his biases towards the RB’s. If they had a new coach in Carolina, I would think it very likely that Williams would be the starter. But for now, Foster is still the guy! You wouldn’t think so by his ADP. Although I see FBG is starting to see the light on this one. I think Jones is a steal at his ADP, and for that matter, so is Foster! Have a good day!

 

[Steve Polychronopolous]

I just watched the rerun of the Denver preseason game and had some random thoughts about the Cowboys RB situation. I for the life of me can’t see why every so-called expert has Marion Barber higher than Julius Jones on their draft boards. I know, a keep hearing goal line specialist, short yardage specialist, etc, etc, etc. I’ve read the spotlights, and heard all the thoughts either way. The rankings are all based on the speculation that Barber is going to eventually take over for Jones as the guy, or at least be the more dominant and productive of the two backs. How can you really speculate on this based on the last few years productivity, when they have a new head coach, and offensive coordinator. If I became the new coach of a team I would not have any prejudgment whatsoever regarding those backs. I wouldn’t want the biases of the former head coach to effect my decisions on who to play in what situation. I think Garrett and Phillips will let the best RB play most of the time, period. As it’s playing out so far in the preseason, that looks to be Jones. He has been the starter. He finally has a decent line blocking for him. He played into the second quarter, like most of the starters did, and then Barber took over. I didn’t see any bias to give Barber the short yardage of goal line carries at all. As a matter of fact, the only reason Barber got the first TD in this game was because Denver called time out and then the Cowboys made the switch. They had not planned on subbing for Jones until the time out was called. I just don’t get it! IMO Jones is the better back. Barber has more size I’ll give him that much. I’ll take the home run hitter every time though. Sometimes you have to stop reading all the hype on the boards about players and just watch with your own eyes. This situation is very similar to the Foster/ Williams situation in Carolina. The big difference being that Carolina has the same coach. He still has his biases towards the RB’s. If they had a new coach in Carolina, I would think it very likely that Williams would be the starter. But for now, Foster is still the guy! You wouldn’t think so by his ADP. Although I see FBG is starting to see the light on this one. I think Jones is a steal at his ADP, and for that matter, so is Foster! Have a good day!

Ditto

 

[yellowdog]

Barber looks better than Jones to me.

 

[Pnishthm]

Barber looks better than Jones to me.

I didn't think it was that hard to see. I have no idea how anyone can watch the two backs and say Jones is better.

 

[Brutis]

Barber looks better than Jones to me.

I didn't think it was that hard to see. I have no idea how anyone can watch the two backs and say Jones is better.

I have no idea either. Obviously these idiot NFL coaches like Parcells and phillips aren't nearly as qualified as us fantasy footballers to make this determination.

 

[TheWick]

Barber looks better than Jones to me.

I didn't think it was that hard to see. I have no idea how anyone can watch the two backs and say Jones is better.

I have no idea either. Obviously these idiot NFL coaches like Parcells and phillips aren't nearly as qualified as us fantasy footballers to make this determination.

If that "genius" Parcells wouldn't have traded out of the first round in 2004 and taken Steven Jackson at #22, none of this would be an issue.

 

[dickey moe]

Both Barber and Jones are very good, but it still kills me that the Cowboys could have drafted SJax and passed up on him.

 

[Brutis]

Both Barber and Jones are very good, but it still kills me that the Cowboys could have drafted SJax and passed up on him.

The way the Dallas secondary has played the past couple of years along with the QB I dont think a SJax would've brought a title to dallas. The running game has been the least of their worries, only one more year until McFadden joins the club so it doesn't really matter.

 

[Urinal Mint]

Not taking Jackson brought Demarcus Ware to Dallas, so be happy about that. The Dallas line stunk in 05 and most of 06, so what good would having a top 5 running back be if he has no holes to run through?

Both Barber and Jones are very good, but it still kills me that the Cowboys could have drafted SJax and passed up on him.

 

[TheWick]

Not taking Jackson brought Demarcus Ware to Dallas, so be happy about that. The Dallas line stunk in 05 and most of 06, so what good would having a top 5 running back be if he has no holes to run through?

Both Barber and Jones are very good, but it still kills me that the Cowboys could have drafted SJax and passed up on him.

Negative...it brought Marcus SpearsI'm not saying Parcells made the wrong choice, just stating he isn't the best evaluator of talent on the offensive side of the ball.

 

[Da Guru]

Jones is too brittle for the goal line work.

 

[Cerwin]

Barber looks better than Jones to me.

I didn't think it was that hard to see. I have no idea how anyone can watch the two backs and say Jones is better.

I have no idea either. Obviously these idiot NFL coaches like Parcells and phillips aren't nearly as qualified as us fantasy footballers to make this determination.

If that "genius" Parcells wouldn't have traded out of the first round in 2004 and taken Steven Jackson at #22, none of this would be an issue.

I thank the 8 lbs 9 oz baby Jesus every day for the Cowboys skipping over Jackson so he could go straight from my college to my favorite NFL team. Miracles happen!

 

[culdeus]

Jones is too brittle for the goal line work.

How many games did he miss in 2006?

 

[Cerwin]

It also looks like Barber got himself a new agent, Mr. Rosenhaus. I wonder if the Cowboys might rather deal with Julius Jones' agent and sign him than deal with Rosenhaus.

 

[Bankerguy]

Jones is too brittle for the goal line work.

OK

 

[BusMan]

I think the preseason game reaffirmed the status quo, as opposed to giving more leverage to one camp or the other.

The two noticable exceptions to this were:

1) after the Travis Henry fumble. Jones came in and punched the ball in on two straight runs, the later of which showed excellent moves without significant loss of speed; and

2) during the second quarter. Most of the Dallas starters stayed in, but Barber was the primary ball carrier.

Otherwise, it was Jones on first and second downs, and Barber on third downs and near the goal line.

 

[doughboydeluxe]

I think the preseason game reaffirmed the status quo, as opposed to giving more leverage to one camp or the other. The two noticable exceptions to this were:1) after the Travis Henry fumble. Jones came in and punched the ball in on two straight runs, the later of which showed excellent moves without significant loss of speed; and 2) during the second quarter. Most of the Dallas starters stayed in, but Barber was the primary ball carrier.Otherwise, it was Jones on first and second downs, and Barber on third downs and near the goal line.

The reason Barber was in the game at the end of the second quarter was because the Cowboys were in their 2 minute package, and Barber is the 2 minute back.

 

[culdeus]

Some of the love for Barber stems from the fact that Garrett will not run as many 2TE and leave TE into block and thus will need the RB to pick up blitzes which JJ seems totally inept at. I'm not saying I agree with it, but that's at least what some are thinking around here.

 

[doughboydeluxe]

It also looks like Barber got himself a new agent, Mr. Rosenhaus. I wonder if the Cowboys might rather deal with Julius Jones' agent and sign him than deal with Rosenhaus.

I don't think agents will have much to do with this. Jerry has never had problems dealing with Rosenhaus, so I don't think that will be an issue.It does merit mentioning that Jones is a UFA at the end of the season, while Barber is an RFA. I doubt that figures much into how the Cowboys use their backs this season, but I do think they will keep an evaluating eye on Jones to see if they want to try to re-sign him or let him walk.

 

[Urinal Mint]

If Jones walks (highly possible) don't be shocked to see Tyson Thompson step in and fill his role as the 20-to-20 guy.

 

[BusMan]

I think the preseason game reaffirmed the status quo, as opposed to giving more leverage to one camp or the other.

The two noticable exceptions to this were:

1) after the Travis Henry fumble. Jones came in and punched the ball in on two straight runs, the later of which showed excellent moves without significant loss of speed; and

2) during the second quarter. Most of the Dallas starters stayed in, but Barber was the primary ball carrier.

Otherwise, it was Jones on first and second downs, and Barber on third downs and near the goal line.

The reason Barber was in the game at the end of the second quarter was because the Cowboys were in their 2 minute package, and Barber is the 2 minute back.

I'm talking about the entire second quarter, not just the end. Check the play-by-play. Julius Jones doesn't appear after the first quarter.

 

[spy231]

Some of the love for Barber stems from the fact that Garrett will not run as many 2TE and leave TE into block and thus will need the RB to pick up blitzes which JJ seems totally inept at. I'm not saying I agree with it, but that's at least what some are thinking around here.

I think both looked really good (I like Barber better b/c it takes 2-3 guys to takle him every time. From a fantasy perspective I would love for Barber to be the #1 back (I own him in a dynasty), but from a cowboys fan perspective I want them to win and if winning means having fresh legs in (no matter where the ball is on the field) then I am all for having 2 RB's.

 

[Flying Spaghetti Monster]

I just watched the rerun of the Denver preseason game and had some random thoughts about the Cowboys RB situation. I for the life of me can’t see why every so-called expert has Marion Barber higher than Julius Jones on their draft boards. I know, a keep hearing goal line specialist, short yardage specialist, etc, etc, etc. I’ve read the spotlights, and heard all the thoughts either way. The rankings are all based on the speculation that Barber is going to eventually take over for Jones as the guy, or at least be the more dominant and productive of the two backs. How can you really speculate on this based on the last few years productivity, when they have a new head coach, and offensive coordinator. If I became the new coach of a team I would not have any prejudgment whatsoever regarding those backs. I wouldn’t want the biases of the former head coach to effect my decisions on who to play in what situation. I think Garrett and Phillips will let the best RB play most of the time, period. As it’s playing out so far in the preseason, that looks to be Jones. He has been the starter. He finally has a decent line blocking for him. He played into the second quarter, like most of the starters did, and then Barber took over. I didn’t see any bias to give Barber the short yardage of goal line carries at all. As a matter of fact, the only reason Barber got the first TD in this game was because Denver called time out and then the Cowboys made the switch. They had not planned on subbing for Jones until the time out was called. I just don’t get it! IMO Jones is the better back. Barber has more size I’ll give him that much. I’ll take the home run hitter every time though. Sometimes you have to stop reading all the hype on the boards about players and just watch with your own eyes. This situation is very similar to the Foster/ Williams situation in Carolina. The big difference being that Carolina has the same coach. He still has his biases towards the RB’s. If they had a new coach in Carolina, I would think it very likely that Williams would be the starter. But for now, Foster is still the guy! You wouldn’t think so by his ADP. Although I see FBG is starting to see the light on this one. I think Jones is a steal at his ADP, and for that matter, so is Foster! Have a good day!

Be quite - I am looking to steal him in my draft.

 

[Chunky Soup]

'Enter' key down?

 

[Joe T]

Although Barber is clearly the fan favorite, Phillips and Garrett seem content to continue the status quo, meaning Jones would start and give way to Barber in short-yardage and red-zone situations.

But Garrett hinted Barber might get more action outside the red zone and on first and second downs this season. Tyson Thompson also could figure in the mix after shredding the Broncos' reserves for 75 yards on 16 carries in the second half.

"We're going to try to do some of the same things, and we're going to try to mix it up more," Garrett said. "Having both of those guys (Barber and Jones) getting touches is really good for us."

LinkEDIT: To put in link

I was going to give this link some credit until the part about Tyson Thompson in the mix. IMO > JJ is the value play on the Cowboys. He is more likely to end up with a better season than Barber III and can be had later....

 

[doughboydeluxe]

I think the preseason game reaffirmed the status quo, as opposed to giving more leverage to one camp or the other.

The two noticable exceptions to this were:

1) after the Travis Henry fumble. Jones came in and punched the ball in on two straight runs, the later of which showed excellent moves without significant loss of speed; and

2) during the second quarter. Most of the Dallas starters stayed in, but Barber was the primary ball carrier.

Otherwise, it was Jones on first and second downs, and Barber on third downs and near the goal line.

The reason Barber was in the game at the end of the second quarter was because the Cowboys were in their 2 minute package, and Barber is the 2 minute back.

I'm talking about the entire second quarter, not just the end. Check the play-by-play. Julius Jones doesn't appear after the first quarter.

I know... I was just stating why he was in the game at the end of the quarter. Jones got most of the first quarter work except at the goal line of the one series, while Barber got the second quarter.

 

[dickey moe]

I do think a lot of people look at this arrangement from a FF perspective rather than a real world perspective. The tandem actually works quite well, although it is frustrating for FF owners.

I'd still think the Cowboys would be better with SJax over Barber+Jones, though.

 

[BusMan]

Some of the love for Barber stems from the fact that Garrett will not run as many 2TE and leave TE into block and thus will need the RB to pick up blitzes which JJ seems totally inept at. I'm not saying I agree with it, but that's at least what some are thinking around here.

I think both looked really good (I like Barber better b/c it takes 2-3 guys to takle him every time. From a fantasy perspective I would love for Barber to be the #1 back (I own him in a dynasty), but from a cowboys fan perspective I want them to win and if winning means having fresh legs in (no matter where the ball is on the field) then I am all for having 2 RB's.

The status quo works for their offense. For the 2006 Regular Season, they were # 4 in PPG, # 13 in rushing YPG, and # 3 in rushing TDs.Not that it matters, but they're also # 2 in 2007 Preseason rushing YPG, as well.

Seems like they've got the RB cocktail mixed in just the right proportions.

 

[Pnishthm]

Barber looks better than Jones to me.

I didn't think it was that hard to see. I have no idea how anyone can watch the two backs and say Jones is better.

I have no idea either. Obviously these idiot NFL coaches like Parcells and phillips aren't nearly as qualified as us fantasy footballers to make this determination.

I dunno, most of "fantasy footballers" knew that Romo was the MUCH better option over Bledsoe long before Parcels admited it. We already know how brilliant Phillips is. You guys hop on the JJ bandwagon like those monkeys did last year and enjoy your 6 TD ride. :X

 

[culdeus]

Barber looks better than Jones to me.

I didn't think it was that hard to see. I have no idea how anyone can watch the two backs and say Jones is better.

I have no idea either. Obviously these idiot NFL coaches like Parcells and phillips aren't nearly as qualified as us fantasy footballers to make this determination.

I dunno, most of "fantasy footballers" knew that Romo was the MUCH better option over Bledsoe long before Parcels admited it. We already know how brilliant Phillips is. You guys hop on the JJ bandwagon like those monkeys did last year and enjoy your 6 TD ride. :X

Every player has value somewhere on the board.

 

[Pnishthm]

Barber looks better than Jones to me.

I didn't think it was that hard to see. I have no idea how anyone can watch the two backs and say Jones is better.

I have no idea either. Obviously these idiot NFL coaches like Parcells and phillips aren't nearly as qualified as us fantasy footballers to make this determination.

I dunno, most of "fantasy footballers" knew that Romo was the MUCH better option over Bledsoe long before Parcels admited it. We already know how brilliant Phillips is. You guys hop on the JJ bandwagon like those monkeys did last year and enjoy your 6 TD ride. :X

Every player has value somewhere on the board.

And I'm not saying JJ has no value but every player does not have value somewhere on the board either. Some players have negative value just taking up a roster spot. Other players can hurt you if you stubbornly keep putting them in your lineup waiting for them to produce.

 

[Flying Spaghetti Monster]

Barber looks better than Jones to me.

I didn't think it was that hard to see. I have no idea how anyone can watch the two backs and say Jones is better.

I have no idea either. Obviously these idiot NFL coaches like Parcells and phillips aren't nearly as qualified as us fantasy footballers to make this determination.

I dunno, most of "fantasy footballers" knew that Romo was the MUCH better option over Bledsoe long before Parcels admited it. We already know how brilliant Phillips is. You guys hop on the JJ bandwagon like those monkeys did last year and enjoy your 6 TD ride. :X

Wow seriously you are so much better than a NFL HOF coach at evaluating talent. NFL teams are always on the lookout for great talent evaluators and scouts - I think you need to send your resume to Jerry Jones. Your ability to spot talent while not needing to watch the practices or OTAs is indeed a rare gift - that potentially can bring you millions. Tell me - Who else have you been scouting? How many hours have you spent watching film on these guys, how many other players have you evaluated and how many years have you spent coaching football at the NFL level? I am truly intrigued about this ability you have.

 

[culdeus]

Barber looks better than Jones to me. :X

I didn't think it was that hard to see. I have no idea how anyone can watch the two backs and say Jones is better.

I have no idea either. Obviously these idiot NFL coaches like Parcells and phillips aren't nearly as qualified as us fantasy footballers to make this determination.

I dunno, most of "fantasy footballers" knew that Romo was the MUCH better option over Bledsoe long before Parcels admited it. We already know how brilliant Phillips is. You guys hop on the JJ bandwagon like those monkeys did last year and enjoy your 6 TD ride. :X

Every player has value somewhere on the board.

And I'm not saying JJ has no value but every player does not have value somewhere on the board either. Some players have negative value just taking up a roster spot. Other players can hurt you if you stubbornly keep putting them in your lineup waiting for them to produce.

 

[burd]

the knock w/ Jones is that he doesn't produce TDs because Barber gets the goaline carries. But Jones does very well between the 20's (better or worse than Barber is debatable), so Jones "inability" to produce TDs is out of his control. I personally don't understand why some coaches rely on backs like Jones and especially Tiki between the 20s, but as soon as they get in goaline, these teams bring in their "goaline back". I think that if a guy is good enough to run the 20's, he should be good enough for goaline.

That being said, if Dallas is sticking w/ strategy, i like Barber better because he'll get the carries that really count ...and produce points.

 

[Pnishthm]

Barber looks better than Jones to me.

I didn't think it was that hard to see. I have no idea how anyone can watch the two backs and say Jones is better.

I have no idea either. Obviously these idiot NFL coaches like Parcells and phillips aren't nearly as qualified as us fantasy footballers to make this determination.

I dunno, most of "fantasy footballers" knew that Romo was the MUCH better option over Bledsoe long before Parcels admited it. We already know how brilliant Phillips is. You guys hop on the JJ bandwagon like those monkeys did last year and enjoy your 6 TD ride. :X

Wow seriously you are so much better than a NFL HOF coach at evaluating talent. NFL teams are always on the lookout for great talent evaluators and scouts - I think you need to send your resume to Jerry Jones. Your ability to spot talent while not needing to watch the practices or OTAs is indeed a rare gift - that potentially can bring you millions. Tell me - Who else have you been scouting? How many hours have you spent watching film on these guys, how many other players have you evaluated and how many years have you spent coaching football at the NFL level? I am truly intrigued about this ability you have.

Did you really take the time to write this? The facts are facts.

 

[Bankerguy]

Although Barber is clearly the fan favorite, Phillips and Garrett seem content to continue the status quo, meaning Jones would start and give way to Barber in short-yardage and red-zone situations.

But Garrett hinted Barber might get more action outside the red zone and on first and second downs this season. Tyson Thompson also could figure in the mix after shredding the Broncos' reserves for 75 yards on 16 carries in the second half.

"We're going to try to do some of the same things, and we're going to try to mix it up more," Garrett said. "Having both of those guys (Barber and Jones) getting touches is really good for us."

LinkEDIT: To put in link

I was going to give this link some credit until the part about Tyson Thompson in the mix. IMO > JJ is the value play on the Cowboys. He is more likely to end up with a better season than Barber III and can be had later....

It's good to see someone here understands value.

 

[identikit]

the one thing that I see about these 2 RB's is that MBIII is much more decisive (ie see the hole and hit the hole) than JJ is (a little more of the shake and dance thing; though I will say he seemed to be not doing that so much so far this preseason).

At or near the goal line, there usually isn't much time to dance and still be effective.

That's why I think Dallas uses MBII in the red zone more than JJ.



Id

 

[az_prof]

Barber looks better than Jones to me.

I didn't think it was that hard to see. I have no idea how anyone can watch the two backs and say Jones is better.

I have no idea either. Obviously these idiot NFL coaches like Parcells and phillips aren't nearly as qualified as us fantasy footballers to make this determination.

I dunno, most of "fantasy footballers" knew that Romo was the MUCH better option over Bledsoe long before Parcels admited it. We already know how brilliant Phillips is. You guys hop on the JJ bandwagon like those monkeys did last year and enjoy your 6 TD ride. :X

Wow seriously you are so much better than a NFL HOF coach at evaluating talent. NFL teams are always on the lookout for great talent evaluators and scouts - I think you need to send your resume to Jerry Jones. Your ability to spot talent while not needing to watch the practices or OTAs is indeed a rare gift - that potentially can bring you millions. Tell me - Who else have you been scouting? How many hours have you spent watching film on these guys, how many other players have you evaluated and how many years have you spent coaching football at the NFL level? I am truly intrigued about this ability you have.

Did you really take the time to write this? The facts are facts.

I don't know how you can discount what two players have done for the last two years in the NFL playing behind the same line in the same offense. To me it is clear that Barber is the more complete running back. If I were coach I would probably use them in a RBBC though, because they do complement each other well. I don't see any argument being made that proves that JJ is better than Barber--just that he is faster. Now, all that being said Phillips doesn't strike me as the sharpest card in the deck and he might make JJ the featured back and put Barber on the bench. But JJ hasn't proven he has the durability to be a 300 carry back and I doubt he is capable. I see both these guys as RB3 type of backs...not great in fantasy, but good in reality.

 

[Pnishthm]

We can argue until we are but we'll just have to see how it plays out. In my opinion JJ has no vision at all. I can't tell you how many times there was a nice hole and he just missed it. He has a nice burst and if he happens to have a hole in the direction where he is running towards, he will hit it quickly and can make a nice play. Other than that, he is meh. Barber has the ability to find a hole or make a hole. He may not hit it with the burtst that JJ does but he has enough of a burst to get thru and he has the cutting ability to make more out of his carry. If/when the coaches come to their senses and realize that Barber is the better overall back, you JJ guys will dissapear and won't show your faces just like the Lendale White guys are doing now. Same old story.

 

[Pnishthm]

Barber looks better than Jones to me.

I didn't think it was that hard to see. I have no idea how anyone can watch the two backs and say Jones is better.

I have no idea either. Obviously these idiot NFL coaches like Parcells and phillips aren't nearly as qualified as us fantasy footballers to make this determination.

I dunno, most of "fantasy footballers" knew that Romo was the MUCH better option over Bledsoe long before Parcels admited it. We already know how brilliant Phillips is. You guys hop on the JJ bandwagon like those monkeys did last year and enjoy your 6 TD ride. :X

Wow seriously you are so much better than a NFL HOF coach at evaluating talent. NFL teams are always on the lookout for great talent evaluators and scouts - I think you need to send your resume to Jerry Jones. Your ability to spot talent while not needing to watch the practices or OTAs is indeed a rare gift - that potentially can bring you millions. Tell me - Who else have you been scouting? How many hours have you spent watching film on these guys, how many other players have you evaluated and how many years have you spent coaching football at the NFL level? I am truly intrigued about this ability you have.

Did you really take the time to write this? The facts are facts.

I don't know how you can discount what two players have done for the last two years in the NFL playing behind the same line in the same offense. To me it is clear that Barber is the more complete running back. If I were coach I would probably use them in a RBBC though, because they do complement each other well. I don't see any argument being made that proves that JJ is better than Barber--just that he is faster. Now, all that being said Phillips doesn't strike me as the sharpest card in the deck and he might make JJ the featured back and put Barber on the bench. But JJ hasn't proven he has the durability to be a 300 carry back and I doubt he is capable. I see both these guys as RB3 type of backs...not great in fantasy, but good in reality.

I think this was very I would be interested in seeing how Dallas would fare starting Barber and letting him pound defenses THEN brining in JJ and his speed and let them chase him around already worn down. They do compliment each other nicely, it's just their roles should be reversed (except for GL work).

 

[BusMan]

Just another log for this fire: if the early reports of Jerry Jones' interest in Darren McFadden are true, a RBBC where neither player has a breakout year makes that selection much more justifiable.

 

[Pnishthm]

Although Barber is clearly the fan favorite, Phillips and Garrett seem content to continue the status quo, meaning Jones would start and give way to Barber in short-yardage and red-zone situations.

But Garrett hinted Barber might get more action outside the red zone and on first and second downs this season. Tyson Thompson also could figure in the mix after shredding the Broncos' reserves for 75 yards on 16 carries in the second half.

"We're going to try to do some of the same things, and we're going to try to mix it up more," Garrett said. "Having both of those guys (Barber and Jones) getting touches is really good for us."

LinkEDIT: To put in link

I was going to give this link some credit until the part about Tyson Thompson in the mix. IMO > JJ is the value play on the Cowboys. He is more likely to end up with a better season than Barber III and can be had later....

It's good to see someone here understands value.

Banker,I am dissapointed in you. I know you're a huge JJ supporter but you were one of the few guys from last season that came to their senses (or at least admited it) and realized that Barber was the better choice. I even recall you saying that it should be MBlll 70% of the time and JJ %30. Did you truely change your tune or is your love for JJ blinding you? I'm curious on the honest take of a true Cowboy fan.

 

[Big Score]

Although Barber is clearly the fan favorite, Phillips and Garrett seem content to continue the status quo, meaning Jones would start and give way to Barber in short-yardage and red-zone situations.

But Garrett hinted Barber might get more action outside the red zone and on first and second downs this season. Tyson Thompson also could figure in the mix after shredding the Broncos' reserves for 75 yards on 16 carries in the second half.

"We're going to try to do some of the same things, and we're going to try to mix it up more," Garrett said. "Having both of those guys (Barber and Jones) getting touches is really good for us."

LinkEDIT: To put in link

I was going to give this link some credit until the part about Tyson Thompson in the mix. IMO > JJ is the value play on the Cowboys. He is more likely to end up with a better season than Barber III and can be had later....

It's good to see someone here understands value.

Banker,I am dissapointed in you. I know you're a huge JJ supporter but you were one of the few guys from last season that came to their senses (or at least admited it) and realized that Barber was the better choice. I even recall you saying that it should be MBlll 70% of the time and JJ %30. Did you truely change your tune or is your love for JJ blinding you? I'm curious on the honest take of a true Cowboy fan.

Pretty sure since his post was in reply to someone mentioning JJ can be had later in a FF draft than Barber & Bankerguy talked about understanding value, his post was fantasy football related, not real world.And indeed there is some merit to Bankerguy speaking about JJ having value.

Depending on how your draft goes, it may very well be the shark move to grab JJ some rounds after Barber is gone.

 

[Pnishthm]

Although Barber is clearly the fan favorite, Phillips and Garrett seem content to continue the status quo, meaning Jones would start and give way to Barber in short-yardage and red-zone situations.

But Garrett hinted Barber might get more action outside the red zone and on first and second downs this season. Tyson Thompson also could figure in the mix after shredding the Broncos' reserves for 75 yards on 16 carries in the second half.

"We're going to try to do some of the same things, and we're going to try to mix it up more," Garrett said. "Having both of those guys (Barber and Jones) getting touches is really good for us."

LinkEDIT: To put in link

I was going to give this link some credit until the part about Tyson Thompson in the mix. IMO > JJ is the value play on the Cowboys. He is more likely to end up with a better season than Barber III and can be had later....

It's good to see someone here understands value.

Banker,I am dissapointed in you. I know you're a huge JJ supporter but you were one of the few guys from last season that came to their senses (or at least admited it) and realized that Barber was the better choice. I even recall you saying that it should be MBlll 70% of the time and JJ %30. Did you truely change your tune or is your love for JJ blinding you? I'm curious on the honest take of a true Cowboy fan.

Pretty sure since his post was in reply to someone mentioning JJ can be had later in a FF draft than Barber & Bankerguy talked about understanding value, his post was fantasy football related, not real world.And indeed there is some merit to Bankerguy speaking about JJ having value.

Depending on how your draft goes, it may very well be the shark move to grab JJ some rounds after Barber is gone.

You could certainly be right here as we do not know for sure how JJ will be used by the new staff. However, if he still feels like JJ should only receive 30% of the work then that doesn't seem to add much value. I'm just curious to see if he change his opinion on that and if so why? His blind love for JJ? New coaching staff? A system better fit for JJ?

 

[Bankerguy]

Although Barber is clearly the fan favorite, Phillips and Garrett seem content to continue the status quo, meaning Jones would start and give way to Barber in short-yardage and red-zone situations.

But Garrett hinted Barber might get more action outside the red zone and on first and second downs this season. Tyson Thompson also could figure in the mix after shredding the Broncos' reserves for 75 yards on 16 carries in the second half.

"We're going to try to do some of the same things, and we're going to try to mix it up more," Garrett said. "Having both of those guys (Barber and Jones) getting touches is really good for us."

LinkEDIT: To put in link

I was going to give this link some credit until the part about Tyson Thompson in the mix. IMO > JJ is the value play on the Cowboys. He is more likely to end up with a better season than Barber III and can be had later....

It's good to see someone here understands value.

Banker,I am dissapointed in you. I know you're a huge JJ supporter but you were one of the few guys from last season that came to their senses (or at least admited it) and realized that Barber was the better choice. I even recall you saying that it should be MBlll 70% of the time and JJ %30. Did you truely change your tune or is your love for JJ blinding you? I'm curious on the honest take of a true Cowboy fan.

You are correct. Toward the end of last year JJ was getting the time he deserved based on performance. However, there are 2 questions (and separate ones in my opinion) in this thread. 1) Who is the the better value from a FF point of view. IMO that is JJ. I see no change io how these backs will be used. However, I do see a much better O-line and JJ is back to his form with his cut backs. Something he didn't do becasue of the whole Parcells/Robot thing.

2) The second topic here is who is the better runner. Again I will say it JJ, however the great TD success of Barber has made his stock huge. Don't get me wrong, I love Barber too. However, he benefits from goal line and 3rd down small fronts and he picks up lots of garbage time stats. If I was starting a francise and I had to pick my starting RB......it's Jones. Honestly though ,I could care less who scores the TD's in Dallas as long as they come in bunches. However, just look at the tape of JJ in the first 2 games, he looks totally different this year. He trained hard and kept his lower body strong, but less bulky. He seems to have picked up a step and the burst is back. I thought MB3 had a bad first game but indeed looked great against the Broncos.

Consider the following:

Both are in contract years. MB3 just hired super agent too. Dallas may want to keep Barbers #'s down to keep him cheaper. JJ will be gone after this year. I totally believe the McFadden hype. Sure looks like the plan to me.

New coaching staff

New offense installed...similar to the 90's Norv offense. Who is more likely to fill the role of Emmitt JJ/MB3. More lead draws, more quick hitting run plays combined with some smash mouth road graters on the O-line.

My "Official"predictions:

The overall Dallas rushing numbers increase this year.

The TD ratio of JJ/MB3 evens out some.

Both are used exactly like last year to start the year. However, they will ride the hot hand. I like JJ to get off to a good start against the G Men Week 1.

I not calling JJ a stud this year, I am calling him a value play. Great 3rd RB with potential to be a RB2.

MB3 will be the benefactor of some Cowboy blowouts this year and some garbage 4th Q time after that huge O-line has beaten the other team up for 3 Q's.

Editted for terrible grammar...at work and doing this on the D-Lo.

 

[seatownfavorite]

I think the value aspect is the key here. It is possible these two will average out the same scoring wise with MBIII getting the TDs and JJ more yardage. If your league scores more heavily one way or the other than that is the way to go. I was recently in a 12 team redraft where MB went 2.11 and I grabbed JJ at 8.02. This is an extreme case as both those are departures from their ADP but it shows how much potential value there is between two backs who could very well go on to score equal points.

 

[doughboydeluxe]

Although Barber is clearly the fan favorite, Phillips and Garrett seem content to continue the status quo, meaning Jones would start and give way to Barber in short-yardage and red-zone situations.

But Garrett hinted Barber might get more action outside the red zone and on first and second downs this season. Tyson Thompson also could figure in the mix after shredding the Broncos' reserves for 75 yards on 16 carries in the second half.

"We're going to try to do some of the same things, and we're going to try to mix it up more," Garrett said. "Having both of those guys (Barber and Jones) getting touches is really good for us."

LinkEDIT: To put in link

I was going to give this link some credit until the part about Tyson Thompson in the mix. IMO > JJ is the value play on the Cowboys. He is more likely to end up with a better season than Barber III and can be had later....

It's good to see someone here understands value.

Banker,I am dissapointed in you. I know you're a huge JJ supporter but you were one of the few guys from last season that came to their senses (or at least admited it) and realized that Barber was the better choice. I even recall you saying that it should be MBlll 70% of the time and JJ %30. Did you truely change your tune or is your love for JJ blinding you? I'm curious on the honest take of a true Cowboy fan.

You are correct. Toward the end of last year JJ was getting the time he deserved based on performance. However, there are 2 questions (and separate ones in my opinion) in this thread. 1) Who is the the better value from a FF point of view. IMO that is JJ. I see no change io how these backs will be used. However, I do see a much better O-line and JJ is back to his form with his cut backs. Something he didn't do becasue of the whole Parcells/Robot thing.

2) The second topic here is who is the better runner. Again I will say it JJ, however the great TD success of Barber has made his stock huge. Don't get me wrong, I love Barber too. However, he benefits from goal line and 3rd down small fronts and he picks up lots of garbage time stats. If I was starting a francise and I had to pick my starting RB......it's Jones. Honestly though ,I could care less who scores the TD's in Dallas as long as they come in bunches. However, just look at the tape of JJ in the first 2 games, he looks totally different this year. He trained hard and kept his lower body strong, but less bulky. He seems to have picked up a step and the burst is back. I thought MB3 had a bad first game but indeed looked great against the Broncos.

Consider the following:

Both are in contract years. MB3 just hired super agent too. Dallas may want to keep Barbers #'s down to keep him cheaper. JJ will be gone after this year. I totally believe the McFadden hype. Sure looks like the plan to me.

New coaching staff

New offense installed...similar to the 90's Norv offense. Who is more likely to fill the role of Emmitt JJ/MB3. More lead draws, more quick hitting run plays combined with some smash mouth road graters on the O-line.

My "Official"predictions:

The overall Dallas rushing numbers increase this year.

The TD ratio of JJ/MB3 evens out some.

Both are used exactly like last year to start the year. However, they will ride the hot hand. I like JJ to get off to a good start against the G Men Week 1.

I not calling JJ a stud this year, I am calling him a value play. Great 3rd RB with potential to be a RB2.

MB3 will be the benefactor of some Cowboy blowouts this year and some garbage 4th Q time after that huge O-line has beaten the other team up for 3 Q's.

Editted for terrible grammar...at work and doing this on the D-Lo.

One key difference in their free agent status is that JJ is a UFA after the season, while Barber is an RFA. It will be interesting to see what transpires in the offseason.

 

[Flying Spaghetti Monster]

I think the value aspect is the key here. It is possible these two will average out the same scoring wise with MBIII getting the TDs and JJ more yardage. If your league scores more heavily one way or the other than that is the way to go. I was recently in a 12 team redraft where MB went 2.11 and I grabbed JJ at 8.02. This is an extreme case as both those are departures from their ADP but it shows how much potential value there is between two backs who could very well go on to score equal points.

Do you think that the reason JJ fell so far was because the other owners thought he would be a handcuff to MB and didn't want to draft him with MB?