Dallas Cowboys, L.A. Rams: Five Quick Thoughts

Here are five things to consider prior to the Dallas Cowboys first preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams tonight.

As the Dallas Cowboys prepare for their first preseason game of the year on Saturday against the Los Angeles Rams, here is a five quick thoughts to consider.

Backup Quarterback Battle

Quarterbacks Dak Prescott and Jameill Showers will likely get all the reps for the Cowboys on Saturday. This opportunity is huge for both players, because if they play well it may hush some of the doubters out there who have questioned the Cowboys decision to not yet sign a veteran backup. It’s unlikely that either player will light the world on fire tonight, but some players rise to the top when their number is called.

Running back Darius Jackson

While the Cowboys fans aren’t going to see much of rookie running back Ezekiel Elliott, nor veterans Alfred Morris and Darren McFadden, they should see plenty of Jackson. The other-rookie sixth round pick has been turning heads during training camp, and fans could be pleasantly surprised at his ability when he takes the field Saturday night. Jackson is going to do all he can to make this roster, including returning kicks. Look for him to make a splash play or two.

Charles Tapper and David Irving

While Dallas is without suspended defensive-ends DeMarcus Lawrence and Randy Gregory, other players will be starting and attempting to take advantage of the starting opportunity while the suspended players are out. Irving and Tapper have flashed brilliance at times during training camp, and fans are holding their breath that these two could possibly be more than serviceable rushing the passer.

Irving is an athletic freak and has the ideal size and explosion for the position. If defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli can coach him up and get him to play without thinking too much, he could be a huge boost for the defensive line. While Tapper is only a rookie, many people believe that he has all the tools to be an impact player in the NFL. Both of them will get a chance to flash what they bring to the table against the Rams.

Defensive Secondary

It is unclear at this time if the Cowboys will play many, or any of their key starters tonight across the board. If the Cowboys do send their secondary out to play, keep an eye on the unit through the first couple of series.

Throughout the first two weeks of camp there has not been a unit that looked more impressive than the Cowboys secondary. Hopefully the players can continue to mesh and put it all together. If they do so, the teams largest weakness could turn into a dependable strength.

Next: Dallas Cowboys vs. L.A. Rams: What to watch for

Don’t put much emphasis on the final score

Many fans will begin to stress about the scoreboard if Dallas isn’t putting up points right away. After last years 4-12 record that’s understandable, but fans have to realize that these first two preseason games are much more useful for evaluating individual talent to build the roster, rather than the final score of the game. Sit back, turn the game on, and enjoy the game because football is back.