Rob Ryan Explains How Romo Makes Life Hard for Opposing Defenses

With some free time on his hands after being fired by the New Orleans Saints a little over a week ago, former Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Rob Ryan joined NFL Network last week to help preview the Week 11 slate of games. While he was there, he offered some insight into what Tony Romo does to make life difficult for opposing defenses.

"I think Tony Romo is one of the best quarterbacks in the league," Ryan said, via the Dallas Morning News. "I think if he knows what you're in, you're dead. So you've got to lie to Tony Romo, you've got to disguise your coverages and you do got to hit him. But it's easier said than done because you're playing with fire with Dez Bryant out there one on one. He tilts the field as well. You got two of the ultimate playmakers right there. You always have (Jason) Witten inside, so this is a very tough offense."

Ryan did have some criticism for the Cowboys, specifically what they did in the seven weeks Romo was out. Ryan led the Saints defense that beat those Romo-less Cowboys in an overtime game on October 4.

“The only thing I've been disappointed with, when Romo is gone, the running game wasn't the same," Ryan said. "You lose Bill Callahan, who is a great coach, and I think their running game is not the same as last year. And I think Tony Romo is ready to lead this team.”