10 Cowboys quick hits from Hard Knocks episode 1

The 2021 Dallas Cowboys are the focus for this year’s Hard Knocks season, which airs on HBO and HBO Max. Their total appearances on the show now grow to three after being on in 2002 and 2008.

After the season premiere Tuesday night, here are ten highlights to recap episode one.

1. The Curse of Hard Knocks

No NFL fan wants their team to be picked come selection time for the HBO series. There is a conspiracy with Dallas fans that whenever America’s Team appears on the show, they tend to underperform that same year. The fans have a legitimate claim. The record for the team in 2002 was 5-11 and 7-9 in 2008. The saying goes, the third time is the charm, so maybe the 2021 team can turn this “curse” on its head.

2. Turning the page on 2020

In the opening press conference to kick off training camp in Oxnard, California, owner Jerry Jones had a tone of determination in his voice. Jones vowed that he would do anything in his power if it meant getting back to the Super Bowl. He became very emotional as he himself knows the value of this game and how tough it was in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Coming back to Oxnard with cowboy’s fans is the only place where Jones wants to be.

3. Dak’s Recovery

When quarterback Dak Prescott broke his ankle in week five last season against the New York Giants, he immediately focused on recovery and the following season. At the start of training camp, Prescott looks to be 100%. After the first day in practice, his throws looked smooth, and his mobility did not look limited by his ankle. All signs point toward number four having a bounce-back season in 2021.