Ravens vs. Cowboys: Handing Out Post-Game Awards

Aug 16, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray (29) runs with the ball in the first quarter against Baltimore Ravens linebacker C.J. Mosley (57) at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Several Ravens’ performances against the Cowboys last night deserve accolades.

Most Explosive Play: Deonte Thompson

Just after Tony Romo threw a touchdown pass to Dez Bryant, Deonte fielded a kickoff deep inside the end zone. From 8 yards in, Deonte burst through the open lanes. He sprinted the entire way untouched for a 108 yard touchdown and put the Ravens up by 7 points again. He showed off that 4.23 speed which attracted the Ravens to sign him a couple of years ago after going undrafted.

Heads-Up Play: Courtney Upshaw

On the Cowboys opening drive, Romo botched a handoff to Demarco Murray. Upshaw was coming on the blitz and immediately stopped his pursuit to scoop the ball. Romo was the only player with a shot to bring down the Alabama alumni, and the pitiful attempt was not enough to keep Upshaw from scampering 26 yards for a touchdown.

Mack Truck Award: Lorenzo Taliaferro

Even though he had his first fumble of the preseason, Lorenzo Taliaferro has continued to impress with his powerful legs and running style. Resembling a slower version of Jamal Lewis, he has been consistent with his play and is proving that he can back up Bernard Pierce while Ray Rice is suspended for two games. It would not be surprising if he supplants Justin Forsett for the third spot on the depth chart during the season since Justin has had problems holding on to the ball. Lorenzo’s punishing style is attractive to the fans who loved the old-fashioned running style like myself.

More from Ravens News

• Will Baltimore Ravens be rewarded for risky Lamar Jackson decision?
• The Baltimore Ravens Big Gamble
• Ravens Super Bowl odds present fascinating insight on Lamar Jackson’s future
• Should Baltimore Ravens be interested in this recently released WR
• Do the Baltimore Ravens have serious interest in this free agent wide out?

A For Effort: Dominique Franks

The poor CB had no chance to cover Dez Bryant. As soon as he lined up on the beast WR after replacing Jimmy Smith, we all knew who Romo would target. He threw a lob in the air, and Franks tried to put his body in play. However, he ended up on his back while Dez celebrated in the end zone. Franks did not look happy, but at least he tried to make a play.

A For Performance: C.J. Mosley

On a night that the starting defense played poor against the run and the pass, Mosley showed why the Ravens drafted him with their first round pick. He has been nothing but consistent and had another good game with a team-leading 5 tackles. The one tackle saved big yardage when he split blockers on a screen pass to tackle Demarco Murray. Many people were surprised when the Steelers selected Shazier over Mosley, and myself am one of them. I thought that the Ravens should have drafted Clinton-Dix, but Mosley has proven me wrong with his play and attitude. Is it too early to say Defensive Rookie of the Year or perennial Pro Bowl selections?