The fact that both teams play 5 preseason games is important. Normally, in the first preseason game for a veteran playoff team, we expect the starters to play a series or 2, but no longer than a quarter of the game. With 5 games, the amount of playing time will be based solely on the coaches predilection.

So what can we expect? One series with the starters and a second series with 2nd tier players pushing for playing time, e.g. Alex Barron and Mike Hamlin. On the other side of the field, I doubt Marvin Lewis wishes to risk his season and his franchise QB. Maybe one series for Palmer, and while Owens may want to stay on the field against his former team, he may not go up for a high ball thrown by J.T. O’Sullivan. As many of us can attest, Owens has alligator arms when faced with a collision during the regular season. I don’t see him going all out for a preseason reception.

Considering this is Owens first time facing the Cowboys, it is really a ho hum situation. The game will pit two veteran playoff teams, it will be on National Tv, and the smell of revenge will be in the air. Unfortunately, the smell of interest will be lacking.