CHRIS DIXON
LOWELL, MA
Which QB and RB do you think will receive the most playing time on Thursday? Also do you think we will keep the majority of the starters off the field?
Rob: The Cowboys haven't announced any plans, but I would expect to see a Cooper Rush get plenty of snaps as the game goes on. I think Rod Smith has earned a long look in this game. He's been very productive running the ball in these practices behind Zeke, Darren McFadden and Alfred Morris.
David:I doubt Dak Prescott or Kellen Moore plays past halftime, and Luke McCown hasn't taken many practice reps. So look for Cooper Rush to do a boatload of work, for sure. Rod Smith is definitely going to get some work, but I hope we get a good look at Ronnie Hillman. I also anticipate that Andy Jones is going to get a lot of reps at wide receiver.
FINN VOGELSLONDON, UK
With Zeke showing he is fully capable of being a weapon in the passing game, is it reasonable to say that he could become a David Johnson type back that never misses a down? If so, would it be a risk worth taking?
Rob: We had a good discussion about this on Talkin' Cowboys. Conceivably Elliott could catch more passes without playing more snaps. But he's still going to be the focal point in the running game. I do think he's got to come off the field at some point in games, and there are so many other options in the passing game. My guess is his catches rise to the 40s range this season.
David:I have my doubts that Elliott is never going to come off the field – that just doesn't sound like something this coaching staff would do. They like to rest and rotate guys, and they like to specialize their personnel. I think Zeke is going to get plenty of touches, and I'd hope he can flirt with 50 or so receptions. But I'm sure he's still going to get his share of breathers.
