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Biggest takeaways from Cowboys' season; which coach is in trouble?

Bob Sturm, SportsDayDFW.com contributor and co-host of BaD Radio weekdays from noon to 3 p.m. on SportsRadio 1310-AM and 96.7-FM The Ticket, gives his reactions to the Cowboys' win over the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday:

Did we learn anything from this game heading into the 2018 season?

I wish we could say that something was learned, but the level of disinterest that this game was played with was actually even worse than your average preseason game where you could argue guys are trying to gain employment. This was clearly one team that did not want to risk any injury for the postseason versus another team that wanted to get inside with some hot cocoa as soon as possible. They had an obligation to the television networks and the ticket buyers, but this was quite awful in every possible regard.

What do you think Dallas will do with Dez? Does this game seal the deal on ditching Dez?

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As much as things remain the same around here, we should not expect anything substantial on the Dez Bryant front. I fully anticipate that he will be back next year and as I have indicated, I believe that to be a defendable position. I know he has disappointed and I know that he is overpaid. But, a pragmatic view of how to improve this offense does not start with releasing him with no plan in sight of how to upgrade. I think a pay cut is a good discussion, but at age 29, a revival of his abilities to at least 1,000 yard status should not be impossible.

Biggest takeaways from this season as a whole?

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I suppose the biggest takeaway from a season as a whole is that distractions matter. Whether it be dealing with Ezekiel Elliott's situation or David Irving's situation or just the overall issues that this team constantly deals with seem capable of causing a down-tick in performance. Also, nothing is promised and 9-7 will often make the postseason. This year it does not. You were leveraged highly in Sean Lee's health, Elliott winning his courtroom issues, and everything else going smoothly. That certainly did not happen as early as their trip to Denver.

If any coaching changes are made, who is most likely to go?

I would think that Scott Linehan is likely in trouble. The winds of change are swirling as blame looks for a target and the parties that do not have Jones family equity are the most likely to go. Marinelli could go, too, but I think there is really concern that the offense needs some upheaval. I do not disagree with that sentiment, but I do find Jason Garrett's ownership on it far more disconcerting and his security remains strong, I believe. So many of these issues are discussed on the basis of "what do I think the Cowboys will do" versus "what should the Cowboys do". Those have been two separate ideas for a long, long time.

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What are the top draft needs?

Speed at WR, depth at OL, LB Depth, DT seem to be the first group, but there are several other spots to consider, too. The Cowboys have a pretty decent foundation, but there is plenty of work to do to make sure they don't fall into the same issues next season.