Not only does the NFL preseason give the defending NFC East champion Dallas Cowboys a chance to gear up for the regular season, but it provides fans a temporary fix for football withdrawal. This year the National Football League selected the Cowboys and the Cincinnati Bengals to kick off the preseason in the annual Hall of Fame Game, which is played in Canton, Ohio this Sunday, August 8th at 8 p.m. on NBC. Although the starters will likely play only a few series, the game may carry a more emotional importance as former Cowboy great Emmitt Smith is being inducted into the Hall of Fame this weekend.
Unfortunately for Cowboys, first-round pick Dez Bryant will not play due to an ankle sprain suffered late last week. Familiar faces such as Tony Romo, Felix Jones and Miles Austin will be suiting up for the game. Austin took the league by storm last season snagging 81 catches and accummulating 1,320 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Get Your Popcorn Ready
Former Cowboy standout Terrell Owens was recently signed by the Cincinnati Bengals to accommodate star Chad Ochocinco this season. The two have been known for their fun on the field and off the field as both have their own reality shows on VH1.
By the Numbers
The Cowboys are coming off a hot season and will look to build on last years success in which the offense was sixth in the league in passing offense and seventh in rushing offense. The well-balanced 'boys also sported the fourth-ranked rushing defense. The Bengals defense will pose a good test for Dallas as their pass defense was ranked 6th and rush defense 7th just a season ago.
Key Match up: Bengals Receivers vs. Dallas Secondary
The Bengals added star receivers Terrell Owens and Antonio Bryant, both starters on the former teams, to their already dangerous passing attack. These receivers will be a great test for Cowboy corners Mike Jenkins and Terrance Newman.
What: Cowboys vs. Bengals in Canton, OH
When: Sunday, August 8, 2010 at 7 p.m. (Central)
Where: NBC Channel 5
