The Dallas Cowboys started their Super Bowl XLV run on Sunday August 8, 2010 when they defeated the Cincinnati Bengals in the Hall of Fame game. The game is held annually to commemorate the NFL Hall of Fame induction weekend. The NFL picks experts had the Cowboys as favorite in this game, and Dallas did not disappoint as they beat the Bengals 16-7.

The starting offenses and defenses saw limited playing time in the game. Dallas starting quarterback Tony Romo had five completions on 10 passing attempts for 59 yards and no touchdowns. Bengals starting quarterback Carson Palmer had two completions on five attempts for 18 yards and no touchdowns.

Some points of interest for the game were the relationship between Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco, the play of Dallas rookie receiver Dez Bryant and the play of the Cincinnati starting defense.

Carson Palmer's two completions were to Terrell Owens. The betting world will be watching Owens and Ochocinco closely. If the two receivers click, it will affect NFL spread picks for the season. Ochocinco had no receptions in the game.

Dallas rookie wide receiver Dez Bryant did not play in the game. However, disgruntled receiver Patrick Crayton had two receptions for 14 yards. Dallas running back Tashard Choice had seven carries for a total of 41 yards.

The Bengal defense looked unable to stop the Dallas offense. While it was a pre-season game with very little game planning, the offensive show put on by the Cowboys has to concern the Bengals coaching staff.