FRISCO, Texas – The Dallas Cowboys face the Houston Texans on their home turf on Saturday for preseason week three. The Cowboys currently trail the series preseason record against the Texans 4-6. However, Dallas has loads of talent on their roster, perhaps more than they have had since the 90’s championship teams. Rookies and first-year Cowboys are hungry for their place with America’s Team.
Keys to watch on offense:
Young receivers: With Amari Cooper’s absence from the field with a foot injury, the newcomers have gotten more reps with the one’s. The additional practice is showing up in their production and consistency. Keep an eye on Reggie Davis and Devin Smith.
Kellen Moore’s play calling. The innovative coach is utilizing the fullback position more, and as a result, Jamize Olawale has gotten more playing time. His chemistry with Dak Prescott has grown and Olawale has been a go-to target for Prescott throughout the past week of practice. He has made several deep catches down the sideline with an open shot to the end zone. “We haven’t even scratched the surface with what we can do as an offense. Every week it is something new. We are all excited for the season and ready to go,” says Olawale.
Keys to watch on defense:
Watch the physicality and explosiveness of the Cowboys’ defensive line. Dallas’ defense currently ranks fourth in the league, allowing only 13.5 points-per-game in 2019. The guys up front are clogging holes and disrupting pass plays by getting to opposing quarterbacks.
LB Justin Phillips: Pay attention to this playmaker. He had an interception against the Rams in preseason week two and had another one in practice on Wednesday. Phillips is currently tied for seventh in the NFL with 12 tackles in 2019, and is one-of-three players to record at least ten tackles and one interception in the preseason.
