Joe Milton strengthens case for Cowboys' backup quarterback job in win over Cardinals.

GLENDALE, Ariz. — Joe Milton continued to make his case for the Dallas Cowboys’ No. 2 quarterback job Saturday night, delivering another strong preseason performance in a 34-13 victory over the Arizona Cardinals. Milton threw for 176 yards and two touchdowns while adding a rushing score as Dallas built a 24-6 halftime advantage. The third-year quarterback completed 9 of 13 passes and connected on two explosive plays that helped put the Cowboys in control. The biggest came late in the first half when Milton found Jonathan Mingo for a 53-yard touchdown. Mingo created separation with a double move before Milton delivered the ball down the left sideline for the score. Milton later connected with Camden Brown on a 70-yard completion that set Dallas up at the Arizona 1-yard line. One play later, Milton finished the drive himself with a touchdown run. His performance comes as he continues to compete with Sam Howell for the backup role behind Dak Prescott. Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer said the competition remains undecided but acknowledged Milton’s recent play. “This is long from over,” Schottenheimer said. “You've got to give Joe his credit, he's played really well the past two games, but we have a lot of confidence in Sam as well.” Milton’s ability to vary his throws and make plays outside the pocket has stood out during the preseason. “This game is about being able to control the RPMs of the football and throw it with different speeds and touches,” Schottenheimer said. “He's done that at a very high level.” Howell entered the game in the second half and completed 7 of 10 passes for 65 yards. He also threw an interception in the end zone. The Cowboys’ offense received additional production from Jaydon Blue, who rushed for 75 yards on 15 carries.

Dallas also made an impact defensively early in the game. Cornerback Shavon Revel intercepted Arizona quarterback Gardner Minshew midway through the first quarter after Cardinals receiver Simi Fehoko slipped on his route. Revel returned the interception 22 yards to the Arizona 12-yard line, setting up Milton’s first touchdown pass. Rookie linebacker Jaishawn Barham also made an early impact with a tackle for loss. Arizona struggled with penalties throughout the first half. Two Cardinals touchdowns were wiped out on the same drive because of penalties against receiver Rivaldo Fairweather, forcing Arizona to settle for a field goal. The Cardinals also committed a false start at the Dallas 1-yard line later in the half. Minshew was sacked on the following play, and Arizona again settled for three points.

Minshew completed 19 of 23 passes for 177 yards while playing the entire first half and the opening series of the third quarter. He is expected to serve as Jacoby Brissett’s backup this season. Both teams held out most of their starters. Dallas will return home before hosting the New Orleans Saints on Friday night. The Cardinals will travel to Green Bay for their next preseason matchup Friday night. For Milton, the final preseason stretch could be critical. His latest performance gives him additional momentum, but Schottenheimer made clear that the competition with Howell is still open.