With so many starters not expected to play against the Dolphins, this is a chance for these young guys to shine. It's their time to either solidify a spot on the 53-man roster, or maybe even do enough to land a practice-squad position.
Here are three guys I'll be watching more than others Thursday night.
Akwasi Owusu-Ansah – No longer a fourth-round pick from a small school, the time is now for Akwasi Owusu-Ansah. He got a pass last year when he came in injured and then got hurt again. But this year, it's time to do something and so far, he really hasn't. Owusu-Ansah got a full week to play with the firs-team defense but the Cowboys signed the two veterans to one-year deals. It'd be one thing if he could make a splash on kick or punt returns, but he just hasn't' done that as well. If he can play well, it'll likely help the Cowboys to remember why they drafted him in the fourth round. If not, it might be time to cut him loose.
WR Dwayne Harris – We saw a smashing debut against Denver in which he not only scored an 84-yard touchdown but caught the game-winning score in the final seconds. Since then, Harris has been very quiet. He'll get a chance to play a lot against Miami. Being a fifth-round pick who has showed more than a flash, you would think Harris is safe. But if it comes down to just one rookie, the Cowboys might have a hard call to make between Harris and Radway.
TE/FB Jason Pociask – Almost a forgotten player on this 80-man roster, but there's always something to be said for versatility, especially when you play one position that just got bit by the injury bug and antoher that just hasn't been settled. Pociask could be a guy that makes the roster, at least to start the season to help at both fullback, where the Cowboys just haven't found an answer yet between Chris Gronkowski, Shaun Chapas, Pociask and converted-FB Isaiah Greenhouse. Then Pociask could also provide depth at tight end, where Martellus Bennett is out for at least a game or two. While the club waits for him, Pociask could be a two-for-one guy, if and only if, he can handle the duties. He'll get a big test Thursday night.
