Should I start Cooper Rush? Week 13 fantasy projection for QB after Dak Prescott's season ending injury

Dallas Cowboys fans haven't had much to cheer about in 2024. With Dak Prescott's season cut short by a hamstring injury, all eyes are on backup quarterback Cooper Rush. The big question for fantasy managers: Is he worth starting in Week 13?

Cooper Rush's availability for the Thanksgiving showdown against the New York Giants hangs in the balance. A knee injury has limited his practice participation, but Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy remains optimistic.

"He's got some work to do," McCarthy said on Tuesday. "But I think he'll be fine."

Despite being limited in practice, Rush has confirmed he'll play on Thanksgiving.

For fantasy managers rostering Cowboys skill players like CeeDee Lamb and Luke Schoonmaker, Rush's performance matters. He's consistently provided a solid fantasy floor when called upon, making him an intriguing – if risky – start this week.

NFL: Dallas Cowboys at Washington Commanders - Source: Imagn

Cooper Rush's first start in 2024 was a nightmare. Against the Philadelphia Eagles, he completed just 13 of 23 passes for a meager 45 yards in a blowout loss.

In his next two games, Rush completed 32 of 55 passes for 354 yards, including a standout performance against the Washington Commanders. There, he went 24 of 32 for 247 yards and two touchdowns.

Cooper Rush's fantasy potential

NFL: Dallas Cowboys at Washington Commanders - Source: Imagn

The matchup looks promising. The Giant's defense has recorded just one interception all season and ranks 19th in fantasy points allowed to quarterbacks. StatMuse projects Rush to put up 13.8 fantasy points in Week 13 – not bad for a backup quarterback.

Rush's stats tell an interesting story. In seven games this season, he's completed 61.1% of passes, throwing for 813 yards with four touchdowns and two interceptions. His record as a starter sits at 1-2, but recent games show improvement.

The Cowboys sit at 4-7, with playoff hopes quickly fading. Yet Rush continues to fight, offering a glimmer of hope.

If you're desperate for a quarterback in Week 13, Rush offers moderate upside. His knee isn't expected to significantly limit him, and the Giants' weak defense provides a favorable matchup. Just don't expect miracles – Rush is a backup filling big shoes on a struggling team.