Cowboys’ 2014 NFL Odds
LAS VEGAS, NV (The Spread) – Will the Cowboys turn in their fourth consecutive 8-8 season under Jason Garrett?
According to oddsmakers from online sports book Bovada.lv, the Cowboys’ current win total for 2014 is sitting at 8, which is understandable considering they finished 8-8 in each of their last three seasons. They’ve been the epitome of average under Garrett, who seemingly will enter the 2014 season on the hot seat, just as he was in 2013.
Dallas had a quiet offseason due in large part because the team had no cap space. The ‘Boys did sign free agent Brandon Weeden to back up Tony Romo (and for insurance in case Kyle Orton follows through on his plans to retire), and signed potential starters Henry Melton (Bears) and Jeremy Mincey (Lions). Deffensive tackle Terrell McClain (Texans) was also signed to compete for a starting job on a defensive line that has been depleted over the years.
The team’s biggest loss came in the form of DeMarcus Ware, who was released and subsequently signed a contract with the Broncos. Miles Austin was also released, while Jarius Wynn (Bills), Jason Hatcher (Redskins), Ernie Sims (Cardinals) and Danny McCray (Bears) left via free agency.
The coaching staff also received a shake up as Bill Callahan was re-assigned as offensive line coach after being an offensive coordinator a year ago, while Scott Linehan was hired to be the new offensive coordinator. Lane Kiffin was also re-assigned to be an assistant head coach of the defense, while Rod Marinelli was promoted to DC.
In the draft the Cowboys added to their offensive line with the selection of Notre Dame OT Zack Martin in the first round. The team also selected Boise State defensive end Demarcus Lawrence in the second, Iowa outside linebacker Anthony Hitchens in the fourth and Pittsburgh receiver Devin Street in the fifth.
This team should score plenty of points provided that Romo can bounce back from his most recent back surgery and key players like Dez Bryant, Jason Witten and DeMarco Murray can stay healthy. But the front seven is one of the worst in football and the Cowboys sorely lack pass rushers. They’re going to score plenty of points, but they’ll also need to because the defense will be a weakness. What does it all mean? Probably another 8-8 year, which isn’t a projection that offers bettors any value when it comes to the Cowboys’ 2014 win total.
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