Before reading the Cowboys vs. Raiders preview below, take a look at our initial game notes from the Hall of Fame game, what we learned about the Cowboys, and our final player grades from Sunday night.
1. How much will the starters play and will they erupt against Oakland’s second-team defense?
The playing time for the starters will really be a situation to monitor in every preseason game. Coach Wade Phillips said the starters’ overall playing time will remain steady despite an additional preseason game. When you combine that with the fact the Cowboys will be coming off of just three days rest, you probably won’t see the starters too long.
A full quarter is standard for the second preseason game, although it wouldn’t surprise us to see the No. 1 guys leave a little earlier than that.
Don’t forget that this is Oakland’s first preseason game, meaning their starters will be out of the game before you know it. It is very possible the Cowboys’ first team offense and defense will still be in the game against Oakland’s second-team defense and offense.
Expect domination.
2. Will the first-team offense score a red zone touchdown?
They didn’t on Sunday night despite four plays inside the five-yard line. Roy Williams was targeted on two of the team’s three pass attempts in that area. Tight end Jason Witten didn’t get a look, although Dallas is sure to use very bland plays in preseason. In fact, look at some of the trends we noticed from the Bengals game.
3. What will the Cowboys do at tight end? Will they run more three-receiver sets and off-balance lines?
Sicko probably won’t suit up (concussion), but he hasn’t been ruled out just yet. If he pla...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Oakland Raiders
