IRVING, Texas -- On Thursday Ernie Sims said he would be the starting weakside linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday against the Denver Broncos, but that could mostly be a product of how the Broncos play and not solely because of Bruce Carter's ineffectiveness.
The Cowboys figure to be in their nickel defense the majority of time, because Denver uses a three-wide receiver set most of the time.
Sims replaced Carter in the second half of last week’s loss to the San Diego Chargers, and has continued to work with the first team defense this week in practice.
“He did a good job in the ballgame the other day, so he’s going to play a lot in this game,” coach Jason Garrett said. “We’ll shake out how it all starts based on what everyone’s availability is, but he’s going to play a lot in this game. There’s no question about that.”
Strongside linebacker Justin Durant has not practiced this week because of a groin injury. In the base defense, Sims has practiced in Durant’s spot and Carter has been the weakside linebacker.
“Bruce is going to play a lot in this ballgame,” Garrett said. “Ernie’s going to play a lot in this ballgame. And they’re important parts of our defense.”