The Dallas Cowboys take on the Washington Commanders in what could shape up to be an unexpected quarterback duel between Dak Prescott and Sam Howell.
It's a short week game and the Cowboys have a very healthy roster overall, despite the absence of safety Jayron Kearse.
The standout safety is a key match-up chess piece for Dan Quinn, as he plays a hybrid S/LB role which often implies a lot of coverage assignments against tight ends. His inactive status opens the door for special teams' ace Juanyeh Thomas to earn a bigger role on defense.
Cowboys inactives vs. Commanders, Week 12
- S Jayron Kearse
- RB Deuce Vaughn
- OT Asim Richards
- CB Noah Igbinoghene
- CB Eric Scott Jr.
- QB Trey Lance (emergency quarterback)
Rico Dowdle is ready to go despite being listed as questionable on Wednesday's injury report. The backup running back was banged up last Saturday but played through injury against the Carolina Panthers. He rushed for 23 yards in eight attempts.
Hopefully, Dowdle is a healthier version of himself as the Cowboys seem to be finding their identity in the run game. Over the last two games, we've seen an emphasis on zone scheme runs and it seems to be working out for the team. Dowdle being available provides the opportunity to keep building on the promising trend.
Although the Cowboys' offensive philosophy right now seems to center around the passing game, it's nice knowing they can run the football.
Other notes on Cowboys' inactive players
- Trey Lance remains the emergency quarterback with Cooper Rush being QB2 for another week. Fans shouldn't expect that to change the rest of the way.
- With Dowdle ready to go, Vaughn is once again a healthy scratch. He's been one for five weeks total now, even though he did play in Week 10.
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