3 standouts (and 2 duds) from Cowboys loss to Jaguars
• John Stephens, Jr. makes a name for himself
• Turpin has a night to forget
By Randy Gurzi
Cowboys Dud: Rico Dowdle, Running Back
Ahead of their preseason opener, the Cowboys released their unofficial depth chart which had a bit of a surprise at running back. Rico Dowdle had apparently emerged as the No. 2 running back behind Tony Pollard, surpassing Malik Davis who seemed to be the favorite.
That didn't remain the case, however, as Davis was the starter when they took the field. He didn't do much to impress, finishing with just three yards on four rushing attempts — although he did have 19 yards on four receptions. That opened the door for Dowdle but he was unable to do much with the opportunity either.
Dowdle had more yard than Davis, finishing with 21 on the ground and 33 as a receiver. However, he finished with fewer than four yards per attempt and had one of the team's three turnovers.
Trailing 8-0, Dallas was trying to get back into the game and had put together a great drive. Starting from their own 12, they were at the Jags 26 when Dowdle caught a short pass and ran for a 21-yard gain. Unfortunately, he fumbled at the one-yard line turning the ball over.
The Cowboys defense forced a punt but then Dowdle had two short runs during their next possession which was a three-and-out. It was a chance to turn the momentum in their favor and twice Dowdle couldn't get it done.