Short memory helps Cowboys CB Carr prepare for Giants

New York Giants receiver Odell Beckham Jr.’s one-handed catch over Carr last November continues to get replayed on TV over and over, and Carr knew the topic would eventually come up on opening week with the teams meeting Sunday night at AT&T Stadium.

“That’s your focus,” Carr said when first asked about the Beckham catch. “I’m trying to win a football game like we did last year.”

That is true. Somewhat forgotten in the midst of adulation for Beckham is the fact that the Cowboys won the game 31-28. It’s reminiscent of Derek Jeter being dubbed “Mr. November” for his past-midnight home run in Game 4 of the 2001 World Series, a series the Yankees lost.

Regardless, Carr has mastered having a short memory as a cornerback and didn’t seem overly bothered by the questions Tuesday.

“I’ve always been hard-headed, too, so it all goes hand in hand,” Carr said. “But short memory, you have to learn from it, correct yourself and move on from it. You can’t make the same mistake twice.

Asked if it has been difficult seeing the catch over and over, Carr responded: “What do you do when you’re afraid of the dark? Do you run from it? Or just one day close the door, turn off the lights and go to sleep.

Linebacker Anthony Hitchens, who has been sidelined with a sprained foot since Aug. 15, plans to practice Wednesday and be ready for the Giants game. Hitchens is expected to start at middle linebacker in place of the suspended Rolando McClain with Sean Lee on the weak side and Andrew Gachkar at strong side.

“It’s difficult not being out there with my teammates, but it’s all behind me now,” Hitchens said. “I’m getting back out there tomorrow.”

The team announced running back Gus Johnson (Stephen F. Austin) and quarterback Kellen Moore (Boise State) would be part of the squad. They also signed wide receivers Vince Mayle (Washington State) and Rodney Smith (Florida State), as well as linebacker Joe Thomas (South Carolina State). Only Johnson went to training camp with the Cowboys.

That gives the Cowboys nine members on what can be a 10-man practice squad. The four signings Monday were all players from training camp, including linebacker Dakorey Johnson, safety Tim Scott, quarterback Jameill Showers and offensive tackle John Wetzel.