In the early ESPN Dallas spring football rankings, the Cowboys fill in the N0. 6 spot in the area, despite losing many playmakers.

In Thursday’s spring game at Buddy Echol’s field, Coppell fans will get their first look at the new squad and its new stars. With big shoes to fill, this Cowboy team has the players fit to do it.

Substituting in for this season’s quarterback Joe Minden is junior Jake Larson, who has been impressing coach Joe McBride in spring workouts. Larson is a 6-4 athlete that is versatile with his arm and legs.

Of course, Larson will not have the luxury of throwing to this season’s outsanding recievers in Tyler Landis and Kyle Echerd. WR Cameron smith will lead a very young receiving core, welcoming freshman Gavin McDaniel.

McDaniel will be a RB and WR in his first year on varsity, hoping to make up for what was lost with his brother (Cam) heading off to Notre Dame. Of all the players to watch Thursday night, his performance could be the most intriguing and important.

Overall, the Cowboys are returning nine starters, including three offensive lineman and stand-out cornerback David Busby.

To see ESPN Dallas’ take on Coppell, visit this site.