Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Rob Ryan is at it again. On Friday, he took a shot at Calvin Johnson, saying the Detroit Lions star receiver isn’t as talented as Cowboys pass catchers Miles Austin and Dez Bryant. Those are bold words regarding a man who has two touchdown catches in each of his undefeated team’s three wins. Still, it’s not surprising coming from Ryan, who also says his defense is the most talented in the NFL.
“We work against better receivers with Miles Austin and Dez Bryant,” Ryan said. “They are probably two of the premier receivers in football, but this guy is right there. He’s almost that good. He’s excellent.”
Regardless of whether or not Ryan actually believes both Austin and Bryant are better than Johnson, it’s just like him to try and stir the pot against an upcoming opponent. The Cowboys host the Lions at noon on Sunday. Ryan’s comments are in direct contrast with Dallas head coach Jason Garrett’s earlier this week when he said Johnson is “arguably the best player in the National Football League.”
Despite his confident remarks, Ryan will have his hands full with Johnson and Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford. The last time Ryan faced Stafford, the then-rookie posted a then-rookie-record of 422 passing yards and five touchdowns on the Cleveland Browns’ defense. However, Ryan is certain that won’t happen again.
“Obviously I had to get the plays that hurt us before corrected,” Ryan said. “We’re hoping [they] run them again. This is the best defensive personnel in football and I’m fortunate enough to be here.”
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