Dallas Cowboys: Four key players to watch in preseason opener

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CHICAGO, IL – CHICAGO, IL – NOVEMBER 23: Quarterback Josh McCown #12 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is sacked by defensive tackle Stephen Paea #92 of the Chicago Bears in the third quarter at Soldier Field on November 23, 2014 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Brian Kersey/Getty Images) /

STEPHEN PAEA #55 – Defensive tackle

It was my belief Stephen Paea would claim the nose tackle spot from Cedric Thornton before September and start in the middle next to Collins.

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Paea was a disruptive force in the 4-3 defense before spending the last two years playing 3-4 technique that poorly matched his skill set.

So far in camp he’s proven to be explosive off the ball while returning back to the one gap attack duties in the 4-3.

With Collins sitting out with injury, Paea has shifted from the nose and filled in at the vacated under tackle position.

Regardless if Thornton plays tonight, Paea should see snaps at both tackle spots in preparation to switch back to nose when Collins returns.

With Arizona holding back their starters, the veteran will get the chance to overpower lesser competition in his first game as a Cowboy.

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