Comparing any running back-receiver-quarterback trio to the famed "Triplets" in Dallas is generally looked upon as near-blasphemy; just how special Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith and Michael Irvin were--individually, but together, as one unstoppable force for around four years in the early nineties more so--seems to become more clear with each passing moment, history reinforcing that, yeah, they were that good.
In the years that have passed, many (sportswriters, mostly) have looked at these figures' role in the Dallas offense as an archetype of sorts. Ineluctably, when a good offense emerges, complete with talented quarterback, receiver and running back, someone will draw this comparison. Those that were old enough to remember these Cowboys, almost always, will groan at this practice.
But what if the one making the comparison wasn't just a member of the Cowboys, but, a triplet?
Michael Irvin, the brash and awesome receiver, made the popular comparison on the NFL Network on Sunday, adding that the play of Atlanta's triumvirate of Matt Ryan, Michael Turner and Roddy White reminds him of, well, him.
Per Barry Horn of the Dallas Morning News Sports Media Blog, Irvin said, "Every time I look at Atlanta, I have those visions of yesteryear...this team reminds me of the triplets."
"For now and probably forever," Horn added, "I'd take Irvin, Emmitt Smith and Troy Aikman."
Indeed, so would I; but the mere comparison--coming from Irvin--is a pretty good indicator of the capabilities of this young offense. Suffice it to say, Dallas' hitherto disappointing defense might just be tested next Sunday.
