Dallas Cowboys Preseason Week 2: Three key observations

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LOS ANGELES, CA – AUGUST 12: Quarterback Kellen Moore #17 of the Dallas Cowboys throws a pass during the preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on August 12, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /

2. Cooper Rush outplayed Kellen Moore

After both quarterbacks played well in the Hall of Fame Game, I was looking for that level of play to continue this week.

Moore struggled mightily this game, especially on third down. He frequently threw short of the sticks, leaving it up to the receiver to get the first down. Furthermore, he wasn’t able to put enough on intermediate throws, often throwing low or short of his target.

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I will give Moore credit on his footwork in the pocket though. He was pressured a couple of times, but had the ability to evade the rush and get rid of the ball. However, he wasn’t able to connect with his receivers after escaping the pocket.

The offense appeared to come to life as soon as Rush took over. He was able to move the chains, spreading the ball to multiple receivers. Where Rush really stood out was his ball placement. He hit his targets in stride, allowing them to pick up yards after the catch.

This was put on display on two plays in-particular. On third and five, Rush hit receiver Noah Brown on a slant route. Rush led him, so that he could continue to run by his defender and gain extra yards. The second was the touchdown to tight end Rico Gathers. After Gathers ran a beautiful out and up route, Rush dropped the ball into his hands for six.

Overall, Rush was able to continue his level of play from last week. If he can keep it up, he has a good shot of making the roster as the number three quarterback.

On the other hand, Moore is back to square one. The coaches seem to trust him, but if he has more games like this they might be forced to bring in another free agent.

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