Dallas Cowboys: 10 Thoughts on preseason loss vs. Bengals
By Joel W. Cade
The Dallas Cowboys lost a meaningless preseason game to the Cincinnati Bengals. But some meaningful things occurred during the game.
The Dallas Cowboys lost their second game of the 2018 preseason to the Cincinnati Bengals, 21-13. Although preseason win-loss records are essentially meaningless, what the starters do on the field is very important. Even though the score shows a Bengals win, the Cowboys were dominant when the starters were playing.
The offense looked true to its old form. The Cowboys ran the ball with great efficiency. Running back Rod Smith looked like a viable backup to Ezekiel Elliot and a potential starter for many other teams. Dak Prescott led the team to two scoring drives.
The first team defense looked dominant as it held the Bengals to zero points. The Bengals looked befuddled as they were trying with little success to throw or pass the ball.
The point differential came while the second and third string players were on the field. Losses in preseason don’t mean much. With that, here are 10 thoughts and observations Saturday night’s game
1. Guard depth a concern
The starting offensive line looked good. Good is the aggregate of Zack Martin’s excellent play combined with Connor Williams being manhandled by Geno Atkins. Williams is not the first person to be abused by Atkins, nor will he be the last. Depth at guard became a concern when Martin was injured, however.
Reports indicate that Martin hyperextended his left knee. This would mean no long-term issues should that hold true, and Martin should hopefully be back for Week 1 of the regular season. Until then, the Cowboys will need to focus on interior line depth with Travis Frederick and Martin on the mend.