Photo Credit: Dallas Cowboys
FRISCO, Texas — In preparation for the Philadelphia Eagles, head coach Mike McCarthy gave several updates on Friday as the divisional matchup draws closer.
Andy Dalton has been in meetings but has not practiced as he continues to go through concussion protocol. If he is able to practice on Saturday, McCarthy noted to media, “ That would be his only chance of playing in the game. “ At this point in time, Dalton is not scheduled to practice and rookie quarterback Ben DiNucci continues to receive all the reps in practice with the first team on offense.
DiNucci finished out the game against Washington when Dalton was sidelined due to a concussion, and in the last quarter and a half of the ballgame, DiNucci completed two of three passes for 39 yards.
Throughout the week players and coaches have raved about his confidence and demeanor for a young player being thrust into action.
Ezekiel Elliott remarked to media, “ Ben’s been nothing but a pro. I think what Ben brings to the table is a young guy with a lot of arm talent. And then what else he can do that people don’t realize is he can run a little bit. So he’ll be able to get outside the pocket and make some plays.”
McCarthy likes the way Sean Lee (sports hernia) has practiced but said the coaching staff wants a full week of practice in order to evaluate players returning from injury.
In addition, the team is acclimating Chidobe Awuzie (hamstring) back into the mix. Awuzie had a lower workload in Thursday’s practice and based on his reps on Saturday, the staff will determine how much he will play on Sunday as they ease him back in.
Xavier Woods missed practice on Wednesday for a personal matter but he was back at practice to conclude the week and will be ready to go on Sunday.
