Houston Texans

Cowboys lose Roster Bubble Bowl to Texans, 28-17

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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The Dallas Cowboys lost to the Houston Texans 28-17 in the final preseason game of 2016, also known as the Roster Bubble Bowl.

In their final preseason game of the year, the Dallas Cowboys lost to the Houston Texans 28-17 on Thursday night in AT&T Stadium. Known by some as the Roster Bubble Bowl, the exhibition showcases players who are still trying to make the final 53-man roster.

The Cowboys, as well as every other NFL team, are required by the league to reduce their rosters from 75-men to 53 by Saturday, September 3rd. For many of these fringe players, Thursday’s matchup was their final chance to prove they are worthy of one of the coveted slots on Dallas’ active roster.

Likely the biggest spotlight was on Cowboys second-year quarterback Jameill Showers, who is fighting for the primary back-up role to newly named starter on Dallas, rookie Dak Prescott. Unfortunately, Showers was fairly inconsistent Thursday night. Albeit with a questionable supporting cast around him.

The 24-year old practice squad quarterback completed just 10 of his 25 passing attempts for a total of 91 yards, one touchdown and one interception. His play was likely not quite good enough to warrant a spot on the Cowboys final roster.

Although Showers had a poor performance against the Texans, other Cowboys probably earned themselves a job on Thursday night. Sixth round rookie cornerback Anthony Brown likely secured his place on Dallas’ final 53 with his outing. Brown recorded five solo tackles and returned an interception for a touchdown thrown by former Cowboys back-up quarterback Brandon Weeden.

Other Cowboys that shined in this matchup included linebackers Deon King and Derek Akunne. Both of whom had double digit tackle totals. Rookie safety Kavon Frazier also likely helped his cause, recording eight total tackles himself.

Defensive ends Mike McAdoo and David Irving contributed four total tackles each as well. McAdoo also recorded a sack, while Irving forced a fumble.

Now the Cowboys coaching staff has the difficult task of cutting down the roster from 75-players to only 53, leaving 22 hopefuls unemployed. Once the roster is complete, Dallas will then turn it’s attention to September 11th, when the Cowboys kick off their regular season against the New York Giants in AT&T Stadium.