7 Cowboys quick hits from Hard Knocks episode 2

6. Dallas Cowboys vs. Arizona Cardinals

The second preseason game highlighted how much the Dallas defense was getting to the Arizona quarterbacks. Fourth-year defensive end Dorance Armstrong was living in the backfield all night.

If he can capitalize on his production and translate it to regular-season success, he will be a nice rotational pass rusher for when Randy Gregory or DeMarcus Lawrence need breaks.

Rookie linebacker Micah Parsons continues to be a force that the defense will rely on in the season. He was moved all over the field in this game, lining up outside and inside to rush the passer. Defensive Coordinator Dan Quinn will have a lot of fun keeping offenses guessing where number eleven lines up.

7. DiNucci Shows Up

Being down in the 4th quarter, Ben DiNucci took America’s Team down the field and gave them a 16-13 lead with 9:36 to play. He threw a great pass to wide receiver Brandon Smith who got open in the back of the endzone.

Making the right call is all the coaching staff is asking for. Even though the Cowboys lost the game with a last-second field goal from the Cardinals, DiNucci showed progress from the Hall of Fame Game with his decision-making.

He might not get much playing time this Saturday against the Houston Texans, but for game four against the Jacksonville Jaguars, it should be the DiNucci show. With the added playing time, he’ll have to show the Cowboys staff he belongs on the roster for 2021.