The 3-5 Cowboys are playing the semantics game. Coach Jason Garrett, QB Tony Romo and TE Jason Witten insist they're not desperate. Backs against the wall? Sure. Feeling a sense of urgency? You bet. But definitely not desperate. (US Presswire)

On the other side of the fence, Philadelphia quarterback Michael Vick had no problem calling Sunday’s matchup between 3-5 teams a Desperation Bowl.

But the Cowboys players and coaches aren’t in favor of the term, although the meaning might be appropriate.

“We like the word urgency,” coach Jason Garrett said. “I just don’t like the word [desperate] at all. We’re desperate? That means you start doing some things that are so out of character and random -- there’s no method to your madness. Urgency is a much better word. Focus is a much better word. We have a plan. We understand what we need to do. We know we need to stay in the short-term and focus on today and this week. I just like that mentality.”

Quarterback Tony Romo said, “We don’t use words like that around here. We’re focused on winning games and getting better.”

Tight end Jason Witten said the words don't really matter.

“I really don’t know if we’re desperate, but our backs are against the wall,” Witten said. “We know we need a win. We’ve got to come back focused and do whatever it takes. We’re starting the second half of the season now. We don’t have a lot of time.” 

Guyton getting ready: The Cowboys have been spread thin at inside linebacker in the last few weeks, forcing the team to sign two veterans off the street. The latest is Gary Guyton, a four-year veteran who is familiar with the 3-4 scheme having played for the Patriots. Guyton joins newly signed vet Ernie Sims in the middle to play with starter Bruce Carter, who is coming off one of the best games of his two-year career.

Guyton said he’s quickly getting familiar with the playbook.

“It’s coming along pretty well for me,” Guyton said. “It’s mostly similar, so I’ve been through it. I’ve been looking through it. I understand the 3-4 defense and the basics of it.”

Jenkins added to IR: Cornerback Mike Jenkins was added to the injury report Thursday with a back injury. Jenkins did not practice Thursday after suffering back spasms earlier in the day. The cornerback isn’t starting this season but has been playing more in the nickel packages.

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