The biggest news from tonight’s game between the Cowboys and Vikings probably came before kickoff; Dak Prescott ultimately sat out with a calf injury. Dallas is still in the fight with only a 10-3 halftime deficit, but Cooper Rush and the offense will have to step it up to change this game.

After over a week of speculation, Dak was ultimately held out tonight to protect him for the long haul. This gave Rush, now in his fifth NFL season, his first career start.

Cooper’s best play was on the Dallas’ first possession. After Minnesota scored easily on their first drive, Rush looked smooth and led the team down the field. Unfortunately, Greg Zuerlein went wide left on a 43-yard field goal.

Since then the defense has stepped up and forced two punts and a field goal. The last 3-pointer for the Vikings wouldn’t have happened if not for a Bradlee Anae offsides call on a punt attempt, giving Minnesota a 1st-down and continuing the drive.

It’s been Dallas’ offense’s inability to capitalize on the low score that’s killing them right now. Rush has made some bad choices on throws, one of which was tipped and picked off by former Cowboy safety Xavier Woods.

Can Kellen Moore finds some ways to help QB2 and utilize other weapons in the second half? Dallas is still very much in this game, but they will need a little more from the offense to have a chance.