Jerry Jones says Cowboys' season will be an 'uphill battle'

The Dallas Cowboys aren't spewing their typical propaganda ahead of the 2014 season.

With a limping defense and a quarterback on the mend, expectations remain low in Big D, and even owner Jerry Jones's outlook is far from distorted. 

"You know that we have an uphill battle this year," Jones told his team via ESPN's Todd Archer. "... But most of you had an uphill battle when you came to camp. Most of you did. And some of you have absolutely rose to the occasion." 

The underdog cry is new from Jones, but with his typical approach having failed for nearly two decades, a new mantra could be invaluable for the Cowboys.

If those players are even listening.