The Dallas Cowboys made a significant move by starting quarterback Trey Lance in their debut against the Washington Commanders during Week 18, marking a notable shift in their roster just as the season comes to a close. This important decision comes after a challenging year, displaying the team’s interest in giving Lance an opportunity, especially with key players sidelined due to injuries.
Trey Lance’s New Beginning
Trey Lance’s journey took a new turn when the Cowboys acquired him from the San Francisco 49ers earlier this season. The Cowboys’ decision to start him over Cooper Rush in this crucial game aims to allow them to assess Lance’s capabilities before the off-season. With a large portion of the regular season behind them, coach Mike McCarthy expressed confidence in Lance, who has been eager to showcase what he can do on the field.
A Chance for Cooper Rush
For Cooper Rush, this decision meant missing out on a valuable incentive linked to playtime, which has reportedly caused disappointment. Rush had taken the reins earlier in the season after Dak Prescott’s injury, leading the Cowboys to a record of 4-4 in his starting games, but he found himself on the bench for the final game. It was a mixed bag for him as he finished with a passer rating of 86.6, showing promise yet also raising questions about his future with the team.
Game Day Performance
The final matchup of the season was a nail-biter. Lance completed 20 out of 34 passes, throwing for a total of 244 yards while also rushing for another 26 yards. Despite displaying some strong plays, the Cowboys fell to the Commanders 23-19. The game featured a thrilling ending, with the Commanders scoring a last-minute touchdown to clinch the victory, leaving the Cowboys to ponder what could have been.
Lessons Learned
Throughout the game, Lance demonstrated some inconsistent moments but also flashes of talent, revealing the importance of developing confidence and trust from both his coaches and teammates. He acknowledged his journey and expressed a desire to improve, stating, “I believe in my ability to be a starting quarterback in the NFL.” His experience could prove beneficial in the coming months as the Cowboys evaluate their quarterback options for the future.
Future Implications
What lies ahead for both Rush and Lance remains to be seen, as they both face uncertain futures in terms of contracts, especially with free agency fast approaching. The Cowboys finished their disappointing season with a 7-10 record, raising questions about potential roster changes or coaching shifts as they prepare for the NBA draft. Notably, the team secured the No. 12 pick in the upcoming draft, which opens doors for new talent acquisitions.
Overall Season Recap
- The Cowboys had to navigate injuries this season, with both Dak Prescott and now Cooper Rush sidelined.
- Lance’s start offers a chance for the Cowboys to evaluate their options before heading into an uncertain off-season.
- This season marked a significant transition period for the Cowboys with Lances’ debut showcasing a glimmer of hope amidst challenges.
Milestones and Records
As the regular season comes to a close, certain milestones were reached by individual players amid the Cowboys’ struggles. Brandon Aubrey established a new franchise record for most field goals made in a season, achieving an impressive total of 40. Moreover, Micah Parsons secured another season of double-digit sacks, continuing to shine bright in their defensive line-up.
| Player | Stat |
|---|---|
| Trey Lance | 20 completions, 244 yards, 26 rushing yards |
| Brandon Aubrey | 40 field goals in a season |
| Micah Parsons | Double-digit sacks |
Looking Ahead
As we look ahead to what the off-season might bring, the Cowboys will need to conduct thorough evaluations to determine their path moving forward. With significant decisions regarding contracts looming and a draft on the horizon, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this storied team will tackle the challenges of the upcoming season.