Cooper Rush Made Cowboys Instantly Regret Trey Lance Decision in Week 10

The Dallas Cowboys' chances of turning their season around took a massive hit this week, as it was revealed quarterback Dak Prescott would need an extended absence after injuring his hamstring against the Atlanta Falcons.

With the year already going south, some hoped this would clear the way for young signal-caller Trey Lance to get some run and see what he can do. However, Dallas made it known from the jump that Cooper Rush was the choice to take over, even though Lance pleaded his case for a chance.

Well, it turns out the Cowboys should've listened to Lance after all.

In his first start of the season, Rush absolutely imploded. He failed to pick up a first down on the opening drive of the game, orchestrating a three-and-out that only netted three total yards. Then, on the very first play of the second drive, Rush immediately fumbled a snap that had no reason to be mishandled.

That turnover gifted the Philadelphia Eagles incredible starting field position at the Cowboys' 17-yard line, which they took advantage of to score their first touchdown of the afternoon four plays later.

While his day didn't start off on the right foot, the hope was Rush would settle in and play like the top-level backup he's expected to be. Unfortunately for Dallas, that didn't happen at all.

In three quarters of play, Rush amassed just 45 yards on a whopping 13 completions. He wasn't able to push the ball down the field at all, leading to numerous dump-offs to his running backs.

And the cherry on top was the fact the Cowboys briefly replaced Rush with Lance at the end of the third quarter, as the latter notched a four-yard rush before he was replaced by the former. Then Rush went on to fumble for the second time, and this turnover led to more Eagles points.

Rush playing this poorly against an Eagles defense that's been prone to giving up points and big plays is notable indictment. The veteran was great in relief of Prescott a few years ago when he posted a 4-1 record during the 2021 campaign, but he's coasted on that reputation ever since.

Rush's performance on Sunday not only shows he's no longer a no-doubt backup, but Lance should now be given a legitimate chance to start for as long as Prescott is out. His dual-threat ability could help elevate a Cowboys offense that's had troubles moving the ball at times, and it's not like Rush is a clearly superior option anymore.

Dallas owes itself to determine what untapped potential Lance has as well after spending a fourth-round pick to acquire him in 2023. There is zero downside to trotting the former No. 3 pick out there in a lost year and seeing what this offense looks like with him instead of Prescott running the show.

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