Cooper Rush had done an adequate job as the fill-in for injured Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. But after the worst performance of Rush’s NFL career, it’s safe to say any discussion of a quarterback controversy in Dallas are sure to be silenced.
Rush came into the “Sunday Night Football” clash with the Eagles with wins in each of his four starts. Though he had just one game with multiple passing touchdowns and no games with more than 235 passing yards, he had impressed enough to at least bring up the notion that Prescott could return from his thumb injury to a quarterback battle.
It’s officially time to put that question to rest. Rush completed 18 of 38 passes for 181 yards, with a touchdown and three interceptions, against Philadelphia. While the 26-17 final score indicated the game was still within reach late, it was clear Rush was out of his league against the top-notch Eagles defense.
The Cowboys, now third in the NFC East at 4-2 behind the undefeated Eagles and 5-1 Giants, could use a return by the team’s franchise quarterback. When will he be back? The team provided some clarity after Sunday’s game.
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When will Dak Prescott return?
All signs are pointing to Sunday being the final game with Rush under center for Dallas. Prescott was listed as questionable before being ruled out and warmed up before the game.
Coach Mike McCarthy said after the game Prescott “took the next step,” and hopes the QB will be cleared Monday.
“I think Dak took the next step. And had a good day on [Saturday]. … We will get him in there and see where he is tomorrow and hopefully have a plan for him [for this week].”
– Mike McCarthy on Dak Prescott’s pregame workout (50 throws) pic.twitter.com/bVGzCILpOT
— Patrik [No C] Walker (@VoiceOfTheStar) October 17, 2022
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Prescott also sounded optimistic about his chances to play in Week 7 against the Lions. He said his early throwing Sunday went well, and that he’s hopeful of having a full week of practice, according to ESPN’s Todd Archer.
Dak Prescott on if he will play vs. Detroit: “That’s my plan. Obviously got to see the doc, but, yeah, that’s kind of my plan.” Said his throwing before the game matched what he did the last few days. “Felt as food as it did (Saturday). Just on track.”
— Todd Archer (@toddarcher) October 17, 2022
Cowboys upcoming schedule
The Cowboys don’t exactly have the most strenuous schedule coming up, but getting Prescott back sooner than later would be ideal for the team.
Dallas faces the 1-4 Lions in Week 7 and the 2-4 Bears in Week 8 before a Week 9 bye. It will be a pair of tough road matchups from there, however, as Dallas heads to Green Bay in Week 10 and Minnesota in Week 11.