As the Dallas Cowboys gear up for their final game of the season, all eyes will be on Trey Lance, who is set to make his first start for the team against the Washington Commanders this Week 18. Lance, a talented quarterback drafted third overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, will step into a critical role as the Cowboys navigate their current quarterback situation without Dak Prescott, who is sidelined due to injury. This development brings both excitement and complexity to the Cowboys’ season-ending matchup.
Understanding the Situation
The Cowboys are entering this game with their starting quarterback Dak Prescott out, creating a unique opportunity for Lance. Backup quarterback Cooper Rush has been filling in, but his chance to earn a significant contract bonus may be slipping away. Rush needed to play over 55% of the snaps this season to receive a potential $500,000 extra, and now with Lance starting, that threshold has become much harder to reach.
What’s at Stake for Cooper Rush?
In a surprising twist, Rush’s financial incentive and his standing within the team may be affected by the Cowboys’ decision to start Lance. Rush has already earned $250,000 for playing more than 45% of the snaps, but the quest for an additional payment hinges on his performance, which is now in jeopardy as Lance takes the field. This change raises questions about team strategy and how it impacts the players involved.
- Trey Lance’s start will be significant as it marks his first from Dallas.
- Lance has seen limited action this season, completing 5 of 7 passes for just 22 yards.
- The stakes for Cooper Rush to play well are high, as he is close to missing out on the financial incentive.
- Both Lance and Rush are heading for unrestricted free agency after the season ends.
The Opportunity for Trey Lance
For Lance, this game is not just another outing; it’s a chance to showcase his abilities. Having struggled with injuries and competition during his career so far, this start provides Lance with a platform to display why he was a highly coveted player in the 2021 draft. Playing well could lead to further opportunities either with the Cowboys or elsewhere as the team looks to assess their quarterback depth moving forward.
Coinciding Factors in the Game
Interestingly, the Cowboys’ decision to start Lance coincides with a game that lacks playoff implications for both teams. The Washington Commanders have already secured their postseason position, while the Cowboys are merely playing for pride and to evaluate their roster. Thus, this matchup transforms into a stage for future possibilities rather than just a game for playoff stakes.
Trey Lance’s Quick Career Rundown
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| College | North Dakota State, amassing 2,947 passing yards and 30 touchdowns |
| College Rushing | 1,325 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns |
| Draft Year | 2021 (3rd overall by San Francisco 49ers) |
| Current Team | Dallas Cowboys |
As Trey prepares to lead the Cowboys against the Commanders, the anticipation is building. Fans are eager to see what this 23-year-old quarterback can do under pressure, especially after his limited appearances prior to this game. Will Lance’s performance win him a permanent spot on the roster, or could it affect the team’s quarterback dynamics in the upcoming season? Only time will tell.
