Cooper Rush will start as quarterback on Sunday after Tua Tagovailoa was ruled out with an oblique injury. The team's first-year coach, Kevin Stefanski, announced the change in plans, with undrafted rookie Jack Strand serving as the backup. This decision comes after an initial plan to have Tagovailoa start the season, with Michael Penix Jr. being inactive due to a knee injury.

Further details about the team's preparations and player recoveries are available. The coach has indicated that Penix will return when he is ready.

The starting lineup adjustment was made after Tagovailoa's injury was announced on Friday.