By Alex Al-Kazzaz
A little over two weeks from now, the Dallas Cowboys take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the team's preseason performance is raising a lot of eyebrows. While there have been some improvements, the Cowboys still don't appear to be 100 percent ready to go.
Granted, it's still preseason and there's one more game left to play and it'll be this Sunday against the Jacksonville Jaguars. After last weekend's 20-14 loss to the Houston Texans, Ben DiNucci's performance really hurts his chances of making the final 53-man roster. At this point, DiNucci is likely to finish up on the Cowboys practice squad. In addition, Garrett Gilbert's struggles are not doing him any favors. Right now, Cooper Rush could end up being Dak Prescott's backup. As I said a few weeks ago, the backup position will be earned through hard-fought performances and convincing results.
Regardless of the concerns on the Cowboys, there's no denying that both the offense and defense have shown good improvement. Some explosive plays on both sides of the ball. That being said, they're headed somewhat in the right direction.
Results in Week One will determine for sure. DiNucci's four interceptions against Houston and the turnover in the opening drive really doomed Dallas. These are bad mistakes and they can't happen in the regular season. However, the defense deserves credit for not allowing the Texans to convert on any 3rd-down conversions.
At the moment, the two main concerns for the Cowboys are the quarterback position, as well as parts of the defense. Furthermore, the ability to finish the game strongly and win. Yes, even in preseason games, an effort to win has to be made. A mentality where preseason games don't matter is negative and it does no good for the Cowboys.
Rush will start for the Cowboys this Sunday against Jacksonville. Furthermore, the Cowboys announced Rush will be working with the starters at practice. In Rush's case, it's becoming clear that he's likely to land the backup role. At this point, there's no denying he's earned it.
The Cowboys need good results this Sunday. More importantly, a win will do them some good.