Cowboys Preseason 2 Viewing Guide
With preseason game number two, the Dallas Cowboys have some work to do. This is what to watch for as a fan.
Even after the mostly-positive performance of the Dallas Cowboys last week, there are some things to watch for in the next preseason game. Sure, the easy thing would be to say, “Watch Dak Prescott to see how he handles progressions,” or ” Watch Lucky Whitehead in the return game again to solidify his job as kick returner.”
Truth be told there is a lot more to look for than these things…
Tony Romo
First, the first team offense and defense should finally take the field in this game. That means watching the timing of Tony Romo coming off of his injury with the receivers will be one of the most important things to watch for. Romo should have fairly good timing with Dez Bryant, but beyond him it will be interesting to see how he does.
Running Game
The other thing on offense is the running game. Alfred Morris did a good job in the first preseason game, however Darren McFadden and Ezekiel Elliott have yet to step on the field. Since McFadden is still recovering from injury, Morris and Elliott get a chance to show what they can do.
The running game as a whole could look different every week and every week is important. Not to mention Lance Dunbar could still be in the mix, once healthy.
Back-up QB
One of the biggest questions will be if Jameill Showers can do enough to warrant a roster spot. With Tony Romo firmly entrenched as the starter and Kellen Moore and Dak Prescott looking like they could be the backups, Showers has to have a good next few games to push Moore out of the picture.
While watching Prescott will be fun, Showers is the one that has to prove something in this next game.
Defensive Line
On the front seven, there is a slight boost as Maliek Collins, Benson Mayowa, and Damien Wilson all passed physicals on Monday and should find themselves potentially in the defensive rotation. Mayowa and Collins should see time on the defensive line as there is a need for a pass rush.
The last player to watch is, of course, one of the two who stood out last week. The only player to find the mythical unicorn known as a sack, was Shaneil Jenkins. This Cowboys defense needs to find anyone who can get to the passer and hold onto them. If Jenkins can repeat his performance from game one, he will be squarely in the mix for a spot on the roster.
Wilson should find the field since the linebacking corps needs a bolster.
Cornerbacks
There could be an interesting battle at cornerback this year. With Deji Olatoye having a good game on Saturday, he could see more playing time as a slot cornerback. On a defense that needs playmakers, more plays like Olatoye’s interception is the type of plays he needs to make to find his way onto at least the practice squad.
Next: This offensive position should concern everyone
No matter what you do decide to watch in the second preseason game, there are just a few of the key things to keep an eye on. There is a more like how the return game does, or how the linebacking corps gels, or even how the kicking game is used.
While I will be watching these things, I will be entertained if Prescott can repeat his performance from game one. And maybe Showers can do his best Romo impression again…