Arizona Cardinals and Dallas Cowboys meet in an intriguing Week 2 NFL preseason matchup aimed at clearing up lingering doubts, with primary attention centered on quarterback roles that remain unresolved.
On the Cardinals’ side, head coach Mike LaFleur announced Thursday that Gardner Minshew II will make his first start for the franchise in Arizona’s lone home preseason game against the Cowboys. LaFleur added that Minshew will play at least half of the game.
Uncertainty remains higher for the Cowboys. Sam Howell started in Week 1 and played well, but Joe Milton delivered an equally impressive performance. While Dallas has not announced a starter yet, allowing Milton to see how he responds remains a logical option. Furthermore, head coach Brian Schottenheimer confirmed that no Cowboys starters will play against Arizona.
How both teams enter Week 2
The Cowboys come off a win at Seattle, where they rallied from a slow start to beat the defending Super Bowl champions. Cardinals opened with a last-play loss to Carolina in a Hall of Fame Game that delivered an instant exhibition classic before routing the Las Vegas Raiders.
Joe Milton of Dallas Cowboys.
Dallas Cowboys hold a 1-0 record this preseason following their opening win at Seattle. Dallas went 7-9-1 during last year’s NFL regular season and aims for a strong campaign in 2026.
Arizona stands at 1-1 this preseason after falling to Carolina in the Hall of Fame Game and defeating the Raiders. Cardinals posted a 3-14 record last year and still have areas to improve as preseason action continues.
Dallas Cowboys kick off against Arizona Cardinals at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on Saturday, Aug. 22, on NFL Network as expectations build for the upcoming season.
