Rapid Reaction: Dolphins 17, Cowboys 3

September, 1, 2011
9/01/11
9:18
PM CT
MIAMI -- The Cowboys finished the preseason with most of their starters sitting out. Questions about the kicking situation still remain heading into the regular season. Dave Rayner missed two attempts, including an ugly kick to end the game, and David Buehler also missed a field goal try. Buehler made a 20-yarder in the first half.

The Cowboys' (2-2) offense was inconsistent, but running back DeMarco Murray, wide receiver Raymond Radway and rookie tackle Tyron Smith had strong games. However, Radway had to be carted off the field after landing awkwardly trying to make a catch with just three seconds remaining in the game.

By the way, Miami defeated Dallas, 17-3, on Thursday night at a wet Sun Life Stadium.

Highlights:

Field goal problems: The Cowboys dressed four kickers and used Rayner and Buehler to attempt field goals. Buehler made a 20-yard attempt in the first half, but was wide right on a 48-yarder in the fourth quarter. Rayner was wide right on a 51-yard try in the third quarter and yanked a 36-yarder left to end the game. Shayne Graham and Dan Bailey also dressed but did not kick.

Injury update: Rookie wide receiver Dwayne Harris left the game in the third quarter with a concussion. He was battling Radway for a roster spot at receiver. Radway, who didn't play in the first half, finished with three catches for 62 yards before getting injured.

Murray gets the start and looks good: Tashard Choice was home with a bruised knee, enabling rookie DeMarco Murray to get the start. Murray rushed 10 times for 32 yards and had four catches for 64 yards. He showed good speed and ran hard when the holes weren't there. It appears Choice will make the roster, but how he's used going forward after Murray's efforts is uncertain.
Calvin Watkins joined ESPNDallas.com in September 2009. He's covered the Cowboys since 2006 and also has covered colleges, boxing and high school sports.

SPONSORED HEADLINES

ESPN Conversations


You must be signed in to post a comment

Already have an account?

103.3 FM ESPN PODCASTS

Fitzsimmons & Durrett: Ed Werder

ESPN NFL Insider Ed Werder joins Fitzsimmons & Durrett to discuss Jerry Jones' recent comments, Cowboys OTAs, Dez Bryant and more.

Fitzsimmons & Durrett: Todd Archer

Todd Archer joins Fitzsimmons & Durrett to discuss the latest Tony Romo news and what he will be watching for in OTAs.

Fitzsimmons & Durrett: Nate Newton

Nate Newton joins Fitzsimmons & Durrett to discuss his comments on how Jason Garrett should handle being on the hot seat and not let Jerry Jones get in the way.

Fitzsimmons & Durrett: Barry Church

Cowboys safety Barry Church joins Fitzsimmons & Durrett to discuss the new defensive scheme and the impact it will have on him, how much more intense he expects practice to be with Monte Kiffin and his expectations.

Fitzsimmons & Durrett: Ed Werder

ESPN Insider Ed Werder joins Fitzsimmons & Durrett to discuss the latest Cowboys news, including Jason Garrett downplaying Tony Romo's involvement in offensive planning and play calling.

Fitzsimmons & Durrett: John Lynch

John Lynch joins Fitzsimmons & Durrett to discuss playing for Monte Kiffin and Rod Marinelli, why Cowboys fans should be excited about the new defensive staff, why Valley Ranch will no longer resemble a country club and his thoughts on the Cowboys' roster.

Fitzsimmons & Durrett: Herm Edwards

Herm Edwards joins Fitzsimmons & Durrett to discuss the latest Cowboys news and give his take on what new face will make the biggest impact for Dallas.

Fitzsimmons & Durrett: Nate Newton

Nate Newton joins Fitzsimmons & Durrett to discuss what he saw at the Cowboys' rookie minicamp and how he helped Rod Marinelli on the defensive side of the ball.

DALLAS CALENDAR

  •    There are no games scheduled for today.
  •    There are no games scheduled for today.
  •    There are no games scheduled for today.
  •    There are no games scheduled for today.
  •    There are no games scheduled for today.