The Dallas Cowboys Defeated in Preseason Opener 31-21 Against the Rams

Dallas Cowboys defeated by the Los Angeles Rams - 2025 Preseason Week 1

Los Angeles, Calif. - Joe Milton’s debut performance showed some inconsistencies due to his inexperience, which is going to require some considerable work. If head coach Brian Schottenheimer has his sights set on Milton as the backup, they are going to have their work cut out for them. 

The noticeable kinks in his gameplay are his timing and accuracy. Milton threw 29 passes for 17 completions. I would attribute this to an accuracy issue. He got ahead of himself in the game and wasn't focused on his target. Milton also threw an interception, and there was some considerable difficulty with overshooting his target. 

As expected, most starters sat out to see how the rookies shape up on the field, but a notable presence in this game was Malik Davis. With Davis in there showing up and showing out, the running game was a major positive. Rookie Phil Mafah also showed impressive skill; he had 10 carries and impressive tackle breakthroughs. His debut showed a lot of potential, and I can't wait to see what is to come from him. 

The team has invested a lot into developing the linebackers, and it seems to be paying off. Rookie Shemar James shows great potential and was a positive force on the defence, finishing with five tackles. 

Amidst the contract negotiations, Micah Parsons was in attendance for the game. It seems from the outside that things are starting to mellow out between Parsons and the Joneses. We may have another impactful season with Parsons on our side. 

Key Takeaways

There is some major work to be done with our up-and-coming quarterbacks if we want to have a reliable fallback this season. Even with some uncertainty swarming around going into the season, the defense is shaping up nicely. 

Looking Ahead

Next week's game is against the Baltimore Ravens, and I am interested to see if more rookie draft picks will make an appearance, such as offensive guard Tyler Booker. I also hope to see improvements made in Milton's accuracy and for him to settle into the rhythm of the game faster.