Cowboys' Deuce Vaughn A Big Winner vs. Raiders

Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy stated earlier in the week that the running back depth chart was to be determined. Well, against the Las Vegas Raiders in Dallas' second preseason game, a 27-12 win, we might have gotten some clarity.

Deuce Vaughn was given the start in Las Vegas and running behind his old Kansas State pal in Cooper Beebe, Vaughn got loose and often as the Cowbosy run game got going early.

In the first half, the 5-5 Deuce would only have four rushing attempts but managed 28 yards while averaging 7.0 yards per carry.

Vaughn's trademark zip, quickness, and ability to fall forward and fight for yards were on show, and he may have just given his roster chances a big boost.

McCarthy wanted to see what the running backs could do with such a log jam behind Ezekiel Elliott and Rico Dowdle, and it appears that Deuce has been the one to make the coaching staff take notice.

Veteran Royce Freeman also had some good moments against the Raiders and Malik Davis also had his moment in the sun, but this was Deuce's day, and it is important to remember that last preseason, Vaughn had a similar impact only to be on the periphery of the offense for his entire rookie campaign.

“For the past two weeks, I’ve been itching to play football,” said Vaughn, who'd been limited in camp recently with a hamstring issue. “Missing the first preseason game was tough. … Just staying warm on the sideline, trying to be ready for every opportunity that I get.”

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But it was another positive step for Vaughn who finished his day with 34 yards from five carries, but it was what he did with those five carries that will excite the Cowboys coaching staff.

Has the running back depth chart become clearer?

After the efforts of Vaughn and Freeman, it is certainly beginning to take shape.