The Dallas Cowboys are once again placing their hopes in backup quarterback Cooper Rush, following Dak Prescott’s injury. Prescott, who previously missed time in 2022 due to a broken thumb, is now sidelined with a partial avulsion of his right hamstring. With the Cowboys struggling at a 3-5 record, Rush steps in as they face a challenging matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles. This time around, the expectations are higher, as Rush is tasked not only with holding the team together but also sparking a midseason turnaround to keep playoff hopes alive.
Rush has shown resilience and consistency in past games, with a 4-1 record when filling in last season, completing 165 of 275 passes with nine touchdowns and six interceptions in his career. He is focused on taking a straightforward approach, emphasizing preparation and teamwork over trying to replicate Prescott’s playing style. His experience and comfort within the Cowboys’ system offer a level of stability as he steps into the role once again. Rush’s ability to stick to the basics and execute plays effectively has garnered the trust of both coaches and teammates.
Teammates like star edge rusher Micah Parsons and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb have expressed confidence in Rush’s abilities, with Parsons praising his fundamental gameplay and Lamb noting that Rush’s prior performances instill confidence. Their belief in Rush stems largely from his calm, steady play last season, where he delivered key wins against high-quality opponents like the Cincinnati Bengals and the New York Giants. Rush’s conservative, no-nonsense approach earned him respect across the roster, proving he could keep the team competitive even against formidable defenses.
Rush also acknowledges that his success last season provides a mental boost, having gained experience and built rapport with the team. He draws on those games, adding to his confidence as he re-enters the starting lineup. Familiarity with the team and the system enables him to stay composed and trust his teammates, which he sees as vital during challenging games. Rush’s calm under pressure and reliance on team chemistry position him as a steady presence who can help the Cowboys stay competitive.
Meanwhile, Prescott remains engaged in team meetings, offering support to Rush and receiving medical evaluations on his injury. Although he hasn’t been placed on injured reserve, the recovery timeline suggests Prescott could be sidelined for over a month. Head Coach Mike McCarthy has stated Prescott’s commitment to returning this season, though the team is carefully gathering opinions due to the injury’s seriousness. For now, the Cowboys rally behind Rush, hoping he can steer the team through a crucial stretch and keep their season afloat until Prescott’s potential return.
