The two other changes in the back division see Dan Fish take a spot on the wing while fly half Rhys Patchell is back to partner Lloyd Williams at half back.
Lock Chris Dicomidis is named in the second row, where we will partner Filo Paulo.
Macauley Cook moves into the back row and takes the blindside flanker jersey while the final change for Blues is the recall of Josh Navidi at openside.
Director of Rugby Phil Davies said: "We're all looking forward to a big finish to the year and the first of two Dominos Derby Series games with the Dragons over Christmas and New Year.
"The atmosphere will be white hot and it's not difficult to get the players up for these games because of the rivalry and history behind the sides
"There was frustration in our dressing room after the Ospreys game and it is our job now to react in the right fashion and end 2013 on a high note.
"Dragons are a dangerous and talented outfit who will also be keen to bounce back after the defeat to Connacht to we need to be prepared for a really physical and intense game."
Cardiff Blues: 15 Leigh Halfpenny, 14 Alex Cuthbert, 13 Gavin Evans, 12 Dafydd Hewitt, 11 Dan Fish, 10 Rhys Patchell, 9 Lloyd Williams; 1 Sam Hobbs (c), 2 Kristian Dacey, 3 Benoit Bourrust, 4 Chris Dicomidis, 5 Filo Paulo, 6 Macauley Cook, 7 Josh Navidi, 8 Robin Copeland.
Replacements: 16 Rhys Williams, 17 Thomas Davies, 18 Scott Andrews, 19 Ellis Jenkins, 20 Rory Watts-Jones, 21 Lewis Jones, 22 Gareth Davies, 23 Richard Smith
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