No rest for struggling offenses as preseason draws to a close

The Dallas Cowboys and Minnesota Vikings again are tabbed as Super Bowl contenders in 2010. Last season, the Cowboys were No. 2 in total offense in the NFL and the Vikings were the No. 2 scoring offense. Each unit had good reason to expect improvement this season.
During game action this summer, however, neither the Cowboys football jerseys
nor the Vikings have delivered. It still is preseason, though — through Thursday, anyway.
As his Cowboys prepare to play host to the Dolphins, Dallas coach Wade Phillips is considering an atypical measure – playing his starters in the final exhibition game. Vikings coach Brad Childress has said he might follow suit against the Broncos.
"We're not ready for the first game," Phillips told reporters. "We can see that, and we've got to keep working."
A quick look at what's ailing Dallas, Minnesota and three other offenses struggling to meet high expectations:
COWBOYS
What's wrong: Offensive line woes have led to poor pass protection and paltry rushing production — a league-worst 2.5 yards per carry.
Can it be fixed? The running game should get back on track as right tackle Marc Colombo(notes) and left guard Kyle Kosier(notes) return from knee injuries. The return of rookie wide receiver Dez Bryant(notes) will give Tony Romo(notes) another key downfield option. The lingering issue likely will be protecting Romo.
VIKINGS
What's wrong: Brett Favre(notes) is working to rediscover his 2009 rhythm, but is hampered by a reshuffling of receivers.
Can it be fixed? With familiar targets Sidney Rice(notes) and Percy Harvin(notes) ailing, Favre is working hard to click with new starter Bernard Berrian(notes) and newcomer Greg Camarillo(notes). Favre, 40, didn't come back to settle for playing at a lesser level, and discount nfl jerseys
that drive should keep Minnesota from dropping off much.
"This guy has paranoia almost of letting somebody down and having a down year after his best year," NBC analyst Cris Collinsworth said Monday.
CHICAGO BEARS
What's wrong: The risk of Mike Martz's passing game — a league-high 16 sacks plus four interceptions — has been paired with a lack of execution (50.6 completion percentage, second worst in the NFL).
Can it be fixed? There's much pressure on Jay Cutler(notes) to break through under Martz after leading the league in interceptions (26) in his first year in Chicago. So far, the preseason doesn't offer much confidence.
"This is the time when you get going physically and mentally," said NBC analyst Rodney Harrison(notes), who hasn't seen enough of that from Cutler.
MIAMI DOLPHINS
What's wrong: A lack of scoring (14.3 points per game), marked by little big-play pop from the passing game.
Can it be fixed? QB Chad Henne(notes), entering his first full season as the starter, is working to build chemistry with his new go-to guy, two-time Pro Bowler Brandon Marshall(notes). The duo must click to facilitate the run and limit dependence on the Wildcat offense.
"Henne has to continue to mature," Harrison said. "Eventually, you have to go to a dropback passing game."
NEW YORK JETS
What's wrong: Too many giveaways (minus-3 turnover margin) plus best nfl jerseys
a slow start to the running game (3.6 yards per carry).
Can it be fixed? The Jets have arguably the game's best offensive line, an ever-improving QB in second-year man Mark Sanchez(notes) and a deep cadre of backs and receivers. Once the hard knocks are finished, they should be fine.