The NFL Preseason is underway as the Dallas Cowboys take on the Arizona Cardinals on Friday night. Featuring on Hardknocks, the Cowboys have generated more interest amongst NFL fans. After losing the Hall of Fame Game to the Pittsburgh Steelers, Dallas looks to bounce back with a better performance.
*Watch the preseason matchup between the Cowboys and Cardinals with fubo TV (click for free trial)*
After a disappointing season last year, the Dallas Cowboys look to make a playoff run in a wide-open NFC East. The offense is stacked and should perform as one of the best. Dallas will be looking for some guys on the offense to step up though, as this is a great chance for the coaching staff to evaluate the rotational players on the roster. There might be a position battle in the tight end group, so keep an eye on Blake Jarwin and Dalton Schultz.
Defense is where the Cowboys must improve. They allowed a ton of points last season, so becoming more consistent on that side of the ball is the priority. Micah Parsons didn't have much of a chance to shine in the first preseason game, but he might have an extended role on Friday night. Additionally, the Cowboys secondary could use some help, so someone within the group could be in for a big game as well. With that said, here are four bold predictions for the Cowboys' preseason matchup against the Cardinals.
Micah Parsons receives more playing time
Micah Parsons played a very limited role in the Cowboys' preseason opener. It makes sense as he was the first-round pick this year for Dallas. The franchise views him as long term piece to the defense and they don't want to risk anything. However, this is the second game and we should see Parsons receive more opportunities. He has to get into a rhythm and the matchup against the Cardinals is a perfect opportunity.
The tight end position battle heats up
Blake Jarwin should win the starting tight end job. However, Dalton Schultz proved to be a worthy tight end last year in Jarwin's absence. It seems the Cowboys have two solid players in the position, as each guy deserves a role in the offense. This preseason matchup against the Cardinals is a great way for the coaching staff to figure out who is most deserving of the starting role.
Maurice Canaday makes a case for more playing time
Maurice Canaday made some noise in the Cowboys' joint practice with the Los Angeles Rams. The coaching staff hopes he can show improvements against the Cardinals as there is a need for improved cornerback play. Dallas allowed a ton of yards and points through the air last year, so if Canaday can show some consistency, he could carve out a role on the defense this year.
Malik Turner has a bounce-back performance
Malik Turner looked relatively good in the preseason opener, but it's been overlooked by his fumble in the first quarter. The Dallas Cowboys wide receiver room is stacked with Amari Cooper, CeeDee Lamb, and Michael Gallup leading the way. That means Turner is competing for the fourth spot with Cedric Wilson, who has been rather consistent lately. Even so, this is Turner's chance to bounce back from his fumble in the Hall of Fame game and keep a spot on the final roster.
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