Ben DiNucci never expected to start for the Dallas Cowboys
When Ben DiNucci was drafted in the seventh-round of the 2020 draft, there was no way he ever thought he was going to start this season.
Guess what. That’s exactly what is going to happen.
The Dallas Cowboys are pressing forward with the third-string quarterback. With Dak Prescott (fractured ankle) and Andy Dalton (concussion) both out of the lineup, the former James Madison quarterback is going to make his first NFL start.
However, according to Cowboys reporter David Helman, DiNucci hung the situation on the year of 2020.
“Ben DiNucci says he figured there was no chance he’d see the field this year with Dak Prescott & Andy Dalton on the roster. “But it’s 2020, what else do you expect? Here we are.”
According to Helman, DiNucci said “he couldn’t be happier or more excited” to lead the Cowboys offense on Sunday. He will get a chance to try and redeem himself for his efforts in the team’s 25-3 loss to the Washington Football Team.
DiNucci made his NFL debut last Sunday when Dalton was knocked out of the game by Jonathan Bostic. Out of 12 snaps, he completed 2 of 3 passes for 39 yards. However, he was sacked three times and fumbled twice.
DiNucci has been taking first-team reps since Dalton has not been cleared to practice yet. The Athletic’s Jon Machota confirmed that Dalton is unlikely to suit up at all on Sunday, which prompted the team to sign Cooper Rush as insurance.
The team drafted DiNucci No. 231 overall, taking the James Madison quarterback in the seventh round. He finished his college career ranking top-10 in completions, passing yards, and passing touchdowns.
The winner of this game between the 2-5 Cowboys and the 2-4-1 Eagles will take first place in the NFC East.
Now, as fast as life has come at the James Madison alum the last couple of weeks, DiNucci isn’t shying away from his chance. In fact, he’s embracing it.
The unproven rookie said he “couldn’t be happier or more excited” to lead the Cowboys’ offense this weekend.