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It’s Friday, so it’s time for the final press conference of the week from coach Mike McCarthy. A recap of what he had to say. (All answers are paraphrased and not actual quotes).
Zack Martin
Mike McCarthy noted that unless something changes within the next 24 hours that it is unlikely that Zack Martin will play on Sunday against Washington.
Connor McGovern as replacement
Coach wouldn’t totally commit to McGvoern starting but hinted this was his opportunity. He said McGovern looked pretty good in the game last week and has had a good week of practice this week.
Chippy Thursday practices
Jaylon Smith referred to this as a “must-win” game for the Cowboys and when asked about the energy surrounding the team at the moment and the comments from unnamed players about the coaching staff earlier in the week, McCarthy said he likes where the team is and that the last two Thursday practices have been chippy.
Andy Dalton’s practices this week
Coach said that Dalton has been consistent this week but that the offensive line with all the changes has been up and down.
Sean Lee and Chidobe Awuzie
McCarthy said that he still does not have a timeframe for the return of either Sean Lee or Chidobe Awuzie to paying but that it was nice to see them working in on Thursday. He said Lee’s instincts about where the ball is going was evident on his first team snap yesterday.
Cam Erving’s status
Coach said that Erving has had a good week and getting first team reps is an important thing. He noted the offensive line is a tight group and they take pride in what they are doing and that Erving is fighting to be up on the line this week.
Transferring good practice energy to a good start
The Cowboys have not started well in games this season and Mike McCarthy said the goal is obviously to do that. He said it is a focus of theirs and that the way they practice is geared towards that.
Randy Gregory playing this week
McCarthy said that they are excited about Gregory and that he has had a good week of practice. He noted special teams play a role in who makes the game day 48, but that Randy is definitely worthy of being on the game day roster.