The Dallas Cowboys are preparing for a critical game against the Seattle Seahawks where they desperately need to get a win. With the Cowboys dropping in the rankings, the Cowboys are desperate to put a tally in the win column as they continue to deal with injuries and drama. While Dez Bryant might not get out on the field in Week 8, Joseph Randle might not be there either after departing practice without notice.
Randle will not be the starter in Week 8. Head coach Jason Garrett has already announced that Darren McFadden would earn the start after a breakout game against the New York Giants. Randle has been dealing with an oblique injury, but there might be more to it. According to ESPN's Todd Archer, Randle unexpectedly left Cowboys' facilities when he found out he was losing his job as the starter. He did practice on Wednesday due to injury. It is unclear what caused the running back to leave. He has certainly had his share of drama over the past year between arrests and getting criticized for ball security issues.
If Randle does not play on Sunday, Christine Michael is sure to see more time on the field. McFadden is hoping to follow up his big game against the Giants where he put up 152 yards and a touchdown on 29 carries. The running back exceled for the team and became the balancing playmaker they needed. Against the inconsistent Seattle defense, that could be a difference maker for the Cowboys.
The jury is still out on whether or not Bryant will be on the field. According to the Dallas Morning News, Bryant was limited in practice with the team. Jay Glazer of FOX Sports reported it is 50-50 on whether or not Bryant plays on Sunday while the team is making no official statement on his status. According to quarterback Matt Cassel, he is hopeful that Bryant makes it onto the field as he brings the energy the team needs.
It's great to have him out here. He brings a special energy to the huddle. He's a guy that brings great excitement, enthusiasm, coming out of every play he's high-fiving people," Cassel said on NFL Network. "I think it's a work in progress to build our rapport, build our relationship."
If Bryant does not play, Jason Witten, Terrance Williams and Cole Beasley are the best receiving options for the quarterback. Cassel should look better than he did against the Giants seeing as he has a little more experience with the wide receivers and a little more chemistry built up. That might be enough to get past Seattle.