Letters to the Editor

That ain't why the 'Boys lost: John Gonzalez writes in his article "Small Soldiers" (September 7) that he isn't going to try to insult us with the "X's and O's" of the game or pretend to know about stunts and blitzes...then he also shouldn't insult us readers that do know something about football with his complete "sports idiot" lack of knowledge and lack of accurate information when it comes to why the Cowboys defense, specifically the linebacker corps he references in his article, got pushed around against the Eagles.

True, the defense played poorly and I am not defending them, but also give credit to the Eagles offense for executing their plays consistently on a high level. The linebackers were constantly being drawn into coverage by receivers running short slants or out routes over the middle, which kept them off balance and prevented them from stacking the middle, and when they did stack the middle to stop the run, McNabb would throw the ball downfield. By midway through the second quarter, the defense was gassed because they had been on the field in the 160-degree heat (playing-surface temperature) twice as long as the offense.

Blame the defensive coaches for not being prepared for the Eagles offense and for not calling the correct defensive plays to stop them, on top of blaming the Cowboys offense for leaving the defense hanging out to dry because of their inability to move the ball, possession after possession. Let's see John Gonzalez strap on some heavy football pads and gear and run around Texas Stadium at 3 p.m. when it's 110 degrees outside for 25 minutes or so, chasing a 220-pound running back while fighting off 275-pound to 300-plus-pound linemen and see how well he does.

I wish to God that your paper would insert a credible sports section with accurate information. My girlfriend works for your paper, and I've begged her to pitch the idea to upper management...hell, I even told her I'd write weekly sports columns for free instead of having some intellectual, artsy-fartsy theater-arts guy like John Gonzalez insult me with his lack of sports knowledge.

Curtis Siegrist
Dallas

Slam Bam

Cooper's hall of shame: As I read Mr. Carlton Stowers' article on "Bam" Morris ("Fallen Star," September 7), I felt that another side of this story should be discussed. The people that were interviewed expressed an attitude that is not universal in this small town. Morris was always a troublemaker while in school and out. He was petted by the coaches and school officials because he could run the ball, but in reality he couldn't spell cat.

To some, that he could play ball was enough. There have been many people that "came" from Cooper that made themselves doctors, lawyers, professionals, or otherwise just had a job, paid their bills, left others alone, and raised their families. The idea that Morris was one of the few that went out and made something of himself (he really did make a name for himself, didn't he?) is just ludicrous. He got exactly what he asked for and what he deserved.

When Mr. Stowers goes out and looks around this small town for a hero, he should look for someone who deserves it and talk to people who will admit the truth about that person.

James W. Scott
Cooper

Close to Home

Stuff like this really happens: I would like to thank you for printing the recent article "Contempt of Cop" (September 7). As a 24-year-old Hispanic male, this article hit close to home. Although I have never experienced this, I have known people, friends, etc. who have. I am glad that you've brought this into the spotlight. I am sure this is something Anglo-Americans have a hard time imagining, but it does happen.

What is more sad is that Hispanic people who hold seats with power don't do anything to help eliminate this violation of human rights. After reading your article, I was left with one question in mind: "How can I help?"

Miguel Monzon
Dallas

Catfish, Anyone?

Something fishy in Denton: Charles Siderius wrote the best and most accurate article concerning the true picture of Denton County law enforcement ("The Untouchable," September 14). This is only the tip of the iceberg. We need more articles as good as this one to clear up the many problems within this county. I highly commend you, your paper, and Charles Siderius for this outstanding article. The citizens of Denton County have lived with this for more than six years and see no relief without someone like you to tell the public. I have had many calls concerning this article. Again, thanks.

Ray Roberts
Denton

Beyond Catty