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As Dak Prescott continues his journey with the Dallas Cowboys, significant questions have emerged regarding the team’s backup quarterback status. Following a recent preseason game, concerns have been raised about the effectiveness of their backup options. The Cowboys have relied heavily on Prescott’s performance after he missed 26 games in the last five seasons, leading to intense scrutiny over who will step up should he be sidelined again.
The Preseason Struggles of the Cowboys’ Backup QBs
During a recent preseason match against the Baltimore Ravens, Prescott’s former backup, Cooper Rush, showcased his skill set, going 20-of-30 for 198 yards, along with one touchdown and two interceptions in a 31-13 victory for the Ravens. This performance highlighted what the Cowboys have been missing. In contrast, the current backup, Joe Milton, registered a lackluster outing with just 9-of-18 completed passes, totaling 122 yards, and suffering an interception that left fans and coaches alike questioning his readiness.
Joe Milton’s Performance Under Pressure
Milton’s performance was particularly concerning; he struggled greatly, especially in the first half, where he completed only 2-of-8 passes for a meager 14 yards and was sacked for a safety. Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer addressed these struggles, emphasizing the need for better gameplay and execution.
- “We didn’t get into rhythm offensively,” Schottenheimer noted.
- He emphasized that the team must work on managing the ball better and developing a more efficient offensive game plan.
- The need for a reliable backup quarterback is paramount for the team’s prospects in the upcoming season.
Milton, traded to the Cowboys after the team could not retain Rush, currently finds himself behind in the race for backup QB. Alongside Will Grier, who hasn’t seen game action since 2019, the Cowboys are exploring their options. Schottenheimer stated, “We don’t have to decide anything today,” which suggests there might be changes or more evaluation forthcoming as the season approaches.
The Uncertain Future of the Cowboys’ Quarterback Room
With the previous season’s woes still fresh in memory—where the Cowboys saw players like Garrett Gilbert and Ben DiNucci take snaps due to injuries—it is critical for the organization to ensure that a strong plan is in place for backup duties this year. The possibilities of injury to Prescott loom large, and effectiveness off the bench could determine the team’s success.
Prescott himself understands the importance of a solid backup, stating the necessity for the team to believe in their collective capability, despite the struggles shown in the preseason. He said, “We have to believe that. I think we do believe that,” reflecting confidence in the team’s overall readiness.
Key Takeaways from the Preseason
As the Cowboys navigate through preseason evaluations, fans are left pondering several important questions:
- Can Joe Milton truly develop into a viable backup option?
- Will Will Grier find his way back into the lineup as a competitive choice?
- How will the Cowboys adapt their game plan to enhance quarterback performance?
Ultimately, the pressure mounts not just on Dak Prescott but also on the coaching staff to develop a robust solution for the quarterback depth chart. As the new NFL season approaches, the Cowboys remain hopeful that they can avert the mistakes of their past and secure a more stable future behind Prescott.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Dak Prescott’s injury concerns?
Dak Prescott has faced significant injuries over the past few seasons, missing 26 games, making a solid backup crucial for the team’s success.
Why is the backup quarterback role important for the Cowboys?
Given Prescott’s injury history, a reliable backup ensures the team’s competitiveness and protects against unforeseen circumstances during the regular season.
What can we expect from Joe Milton going forward?
Joe Milton’s preseason performance has raised concerns; continued evaluation and development will be necessary to assess his readiness for the NFL season.
How has Cooper Rush’s performance impacted the Cowboys?
Cooper Rush’s impressive showing for the Ravens has highlighted the Cowboys’ need for a stronger backup, increasing scrutiny on Milton’s preparation.
What is Brian Schottenheimer’s role in addressing the quarterback situation?
As the offensive coordinator, Brian Schottenheimer needs to refine the game plan to enhance the overall quarterback performance, especially under pressure.
