The debate over who should be the backup quarterback to Dak Prescott rages on.
The Cowboys felt like Kellen Moore would be that guy. However, rookie Cooper Rush has come out of nowhere during training camp to make a case. Rush-mania is alive and kicking.
Rush took snaps with both the second and third team during training camp practice on Monday at the Star in Frisco. That trend will continue.
“I think the biggest thing with all our guys is take advantage of the opportunities when you have them,” said head coach Jason Garrett. “Just be ready, be prepared. One of the best things he’s done is – he’s done that from minute one. He’s ready for his opportunity.”
With that opportunity, Rush has taken Cowboys nation by storm while Moore has been inconsistent at best during the preseason. The undrafted rookie out of Central Michigan is taking it all in stride.
“I really don’t even think about it,” said Rush. “I’m just so focused on being on this 53rd. That’s been my number one goal and just staying true to that goal is what’s helping me.”
The man he would be backing up, Dak Prescott, knows what it’s like to be in a position like this. Prescott was the third-string quarterback going into training camp last year until injuries happened to both Moore and starter Tony Romo. Prescott got his opportunity and never looked back. Needless to say, he knows what he’s taking about when asked about the current situation with Rush.
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“Keep doing what he’s doing,” Prescott said. “He’s a guy who honestly comes in and prepares the right way, has the right attitude and continuously ears wide open, eyes wide open to learn and watch and get better. Just keep being Cooper Rush.”
In the Cowboys three preseason games, Rush is a combined 26-of-38 with 283 yards and four touchdowns. In comparison, Moore is 30-of-55 with 382 yards and a touchdown. Here’s where it gets tricky. Moore has received more of the snaps while Rush has played mostly against third-string defenses. One thing that can’t be argued, he is seizing the opportunity when it’s available.
The question right now is - does that opportunity include moving up the depth chart at the quarterback position?
“We have to get it settled within the next couple of weeks,” said Garrett.
