The Dallas Cowboys defeat the Oakland Raiders in their fourth preseason contest, but lose some valuable players in the process.
As it was the Dallas Cowboys fourth preseason matchup on Saturday night, their “dress rehearsal” game against the Oakland Raiders, the starters for both sides played through the first half. And although the Cowboys came away with the win, the price was too high.
The Cowboys lost three key players to injury against the Raiders. Linebacker Anthony Hitchens (knee), cornerback Duke Thomas (knee) and offensive lineman Chaz Green (ankle). Hitchens is coming off his best training camp in his four years in Dallas. He was expected to be the Cowboys starter at middle linebacker Week One against the New York Giants.
It’s now being reported the Cowboys fear Hitchens is lost for the season.
#Cowboys fear starting LB Anthony Hitchens suffered a season-ending knee injury, sources say. MRI coming. A potential big loss on D.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 27, 2017
Thomas was a sleeper to make the Cowboys roster after injuries decimated the position through training camp and the preseason.
Finally, Green, who was competing for the starting role at left guard Saturday night, suffers yet another in a long line of injures that will likely keep him from playing a bigger role in Dallas. The extent of all of these injuries are currently unknown.
As for the game itself, the Cowboys showed excellent quarterback play in the win. Dak Prescott completed 11 of his 14 passes for 113 yards and one touchdown. Undrafted rookie Cooper Rush impressed in his first opportunity under center with Dallas’ second team, throwing for 115 yards and two scores, completing 12 of his 13 passes against the Raiders.
Although starting running back Ezekiel Elliott made his debut in this contest, rushing for 18 yards on six attempts, it was veteran Alfred Morris who stole the show. The former two-time Pro Bowler led the team in rushing with 56 yards on nine carries.
35-year old tight end Jason Witten continues to outrun Father Time, leading the Cowboys in receptions with six catches for 74 yards and a score. Also recording receiving touchdowns were running back Ronnie Hillman and receiver Lance Lenoir.
Linebacker Damien Wilson led the Cowboys defense in total tackles with five. Defensive ends Taco Charlton, Damontre Moore and Lewis Neal all recorded sacks against the Raiders.
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The Dallas Cowboys will play their final preseason game against the Houston Texas in NRG Stadium, Thursday night, August 31st at 7:00pm CT. Stay tuned as the location could change due to Hurricane Harvey.