In a peculiarly eventful preseason opener, the Dallas Cowboys faced an unusual setback when star receiver CeeDee Lamb was inadvertently hit by an official, resulting in a penalty that overshadowed a promising play against the Los Angeles Rams.

Why it matters: This incident highlights the unpredictable nature of football games, where even non-playing personnel can impact the flow and outcome.

• The penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct not only disrupted the Cowboys’ momentum but also negated what could have been a significant gain following a pass interference call against Rams defensive back Shaun Jolly.

What’s new: During the second quarter of the game at SoFi Stadium, Lamb, dressed in street clothes and observing from the sidelines, found himself on the receiving end of an accidental collision.

• The incident resulted in a 15-yard penalty that further complicated the Cowboys' offensive strategy in a game where key players like Dak Prescott were already sitting out.

Yes, but: While the penalty was unfortunate, it is unlikely to have lasting implications for the Cowboys’ season.

• Lamb appeared uninjured after the collision, laughing with teammates, suggesting that the incident was more of a curious anecdote than a cause for concern.

What to watch: As preseason continues, how teams manage their star players during these games will be crucial.

• With critical players like Lamb resting, the Cowboys are prioritizing health and readiness over immediate performance, which could pay dividends come regular season.

The big picture: This incident serves as a reminder of the chaotic elements inherent in NFL games, especially during preseason where both players and officials are adjusting to the rhythm of competitive play.

• As teams evaluate talent for the upcoming season, moments like this underscore the necessity of vigilance from all parties involved—players, coaches, and officials alike.

The bottom line: For the Dallas Cowboys, the unintended sideline drama was a mere footnote in their overall preparation for the season ahead.

• The goal remains clear: to ensure that their key players are healthy and ready to contribute when the stakes rise, and with Lamb seemingly unharmed, they remain on track to achieve that objective.

In a peculiarly eventful preseason opener, the Dallas Cowboys faced an unusual setback when star receiver CeeDee Lamb was inadvertently hit by an official, resulting in a penalty that overshadowed a promising play against the Los Angeles Rams.

Why it matters: This incident highlights the unpredictable nature of football games, where even non-playing personnel can impact the flow and outcome.

• The penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct not only disrupted the Cowboys’ momentum but also negated what could have been a significant gain following a pass interference call against Rams defensive back Shaun Jolly.

What’s new: During the second quarter of the game at SoFi Stadium, Lamb, dressed in street clothes and observing from the sidelines, found himself on the receiving end of an accidental collision.

• The incident resulted in a 15-yard penalty that further complicated the Cowboys' offensive strategy in a game where key players like Dak Prescott were already sitting out.

Yes, but: While the penalty was unfortunate, it is unlikely to have lasting implications for the Cowboys’ season.

• Lamb appeared uninjured after the collision, laughing with teammates, suggesting that the incident was more of a curious anecdote than a cause for concern.

What to watch: As preseason continues, how teams manage their star players during these games will be crucial.

• With critical players like Lamb resting, the Cowboys are prioritizing health and readiness over immediate performance, which could pay dividends come regular season.

The big picture: This incident serves as a reminder of the chaotic elements inherent in NFL games, especially during preseason where both players and officials are adjusting to the rhythm of competitive play.

• As teams evaluate talent for the upcoming season, moments like this underscore the necessity of vigilance from all parties involved—players, coaches, and officials alike.

The bottom line: For the Dallas Cowboys, the unintended sideline drama was a mere footnote in their overall preparation for the season ahead.

• The goal remains clear: to ensure that their key players are healthy and ready to contribute when the stakes rise, and with Lamb seemingly unharmed, they remain on track to achieve that objective.