The Cowboys got the best of both worlds on Sunday night. The biggest concern for many writers and fans was that head coach Mike McCarthy held out the majority of his starters throughout the entire preseason. This strategy, to make sure key players stayed healthy, did not work out well in 2022. Dallas was lethargic and off rhythm when they faced Tampa Bay in Week 1, and late in the 19-3 loss QB Dak Prescott broke his hand and was knocked out for five weeks.
In the 2023 opener against the Giants, the rust for the offense was still there. Combined with the horrible weather the passing game was relatively stymied once again. Only this time, the defense was able to not just play well, but out of their minds. This allowed Dallas to run a weather-induced safe offense to shake off some rust. The blowout 40-0 win also allowed Dallas to go deep into their bench and get substantial game reps for players who got the brunt of the preseason work and were able to maintain a strong level of play throughout.
Here’s a look at who played, how much and how well in the team’s big victory.