Some thought the Dallas Cowboys were done after their first game saw Dak Prescott leave with an injury.
However, backup QB Cooper Rush is saving the team from having a horrible season.
With Prescott out for several weeks, the Cowboys’ season was in question without their star QB.
But Rush has impressed, despite him only having one start prior to the 2022 NFL season.
So, what is he doing, and how is it saving the Cowboys’ season?
Rush Is Playing Smart Football, Which Is Leading To Wins
Turnovers are a killer for teams in the NFL.
However, Rush isn’t turning over the ball, which gives the Cowboys scoring opportunities.
With him protecting the ball, he’s also having some solid drives which end in scoring points.
While not all of his drives result in points, he’s not giving opponents excellent field positions with turnovers.
He’s thrown no interceptions this season, which is part of the winning formula in Dallas.
However, it’s also the Cowboys’ defense that has helped the team win games as well.
Cowboys CB Trevon Diggs: Interception No. 1. And that will do it. Cowboys continue to weather storm without QB Dak Prescott, winning both of Cooper Rush's starts. They are 2-1.
— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) September 27, 2022
With Trevon Diggs getting a game-winning interception on Monday night, he helped seal Rush’s second victory in 2022.
But Rush is also benefiting from his backfield, which can open up the passing lanes for him in games.
Elliott And Pollard Are A Dangerous One-Two Punch For Dallas
While teams are expecting a running game from Dallas even with Prescott gone, they still can’t stop it.
Both Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard seem unstoppable when on the field.
They are a one-two punch that softens defenses, leaving passing lanes open for Rush in games.
While people have talked about these two running backs since last season, teams are still without answers against them.
Is there a better one-two punch in the #NFL than Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard? I get it, they get to run behind the #Cowboys' offensive line, but their success on the ground is ridiculous.
— Matt Lombardo (@MattLombardoNFL) October 10, 2021
With two running backs, the Cowboys can continue to keep fresh legs in when running the ball.
However, these backs are two different runners, meaning both Rush and the Dallas offense need to use them wisely.
But it looks like Rush and that offense are having no issue in using these backs the right way.
Rush Can Win With Defense And Running Game
While the Cowboys’ backup QB isn’t flashy, he’s making the right play calls.
If he can continue doing this, he can give the team more wins.
He’s got two top-tier running backs and a solid defense.
However, it’s his mistake-free play that he’ll need to continue in games.
It’s the biggest reason the Cowboys are 2-1 currently.
Had he turned over the ball in critical situations, the Cowboys’ situation wouldn’t be the same.
The defense is also to thank for the Cowboys being in this situation.
So, while Rush is making all the right choices, it’s the team effort that’s bringing wins for the Cowboys.
With Prescott wanting to return soon, he’ll come back to a team with a solid record.
While Rush is holding the offense together, Prescott is ready to take back over.
However, it might be best to let Rush continue leading the offense so that Prescott can return at 100%.
NEXT: Jerry Jones Comments On The Debut Of Jason Peters
