OXNARD, Calif. – Here are some thoughts from the first full-padded practice.
- Running backs did a really nice job during the blitz pick-up period on Wednesday. It might be an underrated part of his game, but DeMarco Murray has a real feel for how to stay square, keep a nice base and deliver a blow. Was able to handle DeMarcus Ware off the edge to allow the ball to get outside. Lance Dunbar and Ed Wesley had a couple of nice reps as well. Running back coach Skip Peete has these guys working hard during practice in this area.
- Offensive tackle Pat McQuistan has had a nice camp so far. Did a good job with his pass sets in the one-on-one and has been able to get some movement off the edge in the running game. Playing like a guy that the squad needs to keep around.
- The only thing that can slow guard Ronald Leary down from getting more opportunities is the mental side of the game. Had a shot in the team period where he was trying to help wide with McQuistan but didn't see the twist from outside linebacker Baraka Atkins coming the other way. Leary hasn't been bad overall, it's just that he needs to be more aware.
- There might be a competition between Bruce Carter and Dan Connor for the Mike linebacker spot but there were plenty of reps where both were on the field at the same time. Safety Barry Church has also seen some reps at inside linebacker in the dime but needs to develop more of a feel on the blitz on how to get home on the rush.
- There has been a lot of conversation about plays where Morris Claiborne has been beaten deep on routes. Raymond Radway got him on Wednesday and Dez Bryant across the field on Tuesday. But in both situations, there would have been sacks on the play. On the Radway play, Anthony Spencer was able to get inside of Doug Free right off the snap and would have hit Romo from the front side and the ball would have never got off. Have to think about these things when corners are carrying these receivers down the field.
