Could Andy Dalton play for Cowboys vs. Eagles?

Rookie seventh-round draft pick Ben DiNucci is expected start for the Dallas Cowboys against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday night, but his name is only penciled in to the lineup as of Friday afternoon. 

Dallas Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy isn't yet ready to rule veteran Andy Dalton out for Sunday's divisional showdown.

"If Andy would practice [Saturday], that would be the only chance he would have to play in the game," McCarthy told reporters, per Todd Archer of ESPN. "As of right now, he's not scheduled to practice."

Dalton remains in the concussion protocol following the brutal hit delivered by Washington Football Team linebacker Jon Bostic during last Sunday's game. That reality, McCarthy explained, will probably prevent Dalton from being an active backup by the first day of November. 

"You look at all your scenarios, but until he comes out and he's been cleared by the medical staff, then we really can't entertain that decision," McCarthy said about Dalton maybe being second on the depth chart this Sunday. "But that's definitely an option."

Journeyman Garrett Gilbert is also available for Dallas and will serve as DiNucci's backup assuming Dalton won't be cleared on Sunday morning. Dallas acquired Gilbert off the practice squad of the Cleveland Browns on Oct. 13. 

Dalton was shaky in his first two starts after Dak Prescott was lost for the year to a horrific ankle injury he suffered in the Oct. 11 win over the New York Giants. The "Red Rifle" completed only 9-of-19 passes for 75 yards with an interception versus Washington before he was knocked out of that game.