Blogging The Boys
At long last, Cowboys football is back. That may feel like a threat after the way their last two games have gone, but Dallas made moves during their bye week, trading for Quinnen Williams and Logan Wilson. They also see the return of both DeMarvion Overshown and Shavon Revel from injury, both major developments for a defense in need of reinforcements.
Standing in their way is a Raiders team that’s 2-7 and hasn’t won in their last three tries. Can Brian Schottenheimer get a win over his former head coach and mentor, Pete Carroll? Optimism isn’t exactly sky high for our writers.
Contain Brock Bowers
Easier said than done. Brock Bowers has been a one-man wrecking crew this year, and his 119.8 passer rating when targeted ranks fourth among all tight ends. Meanwhile, the rest of this Raiders skill group has a meager 71.7 passer rating when targeted.
The run game has also been a bust. Even though rookie Ashton Jeanty is just outside the top 10 in both yards after contact per attempt and runs of 10+ yards, Las Vegas is getting stuffed at the highest rate of any rushing attack. Now they have to face Quinnen Williams, who’s motivated to make a big splash in his Dallas debut. In short, containing Bowers in the pass game is the most surefire way to shut down this offense.
Reestablish their explosive identity
Not too long ago, this Cowboys offense was the best in the NFC and just behind the red-hot Colts. Dak Prescott was balling out, even when CeeDee Lamb was injured, and the run game was downright elite behind Javonte Williams’ powerful run style.
Their last two games have seen Dallas lose their identity. Even as they’ve gotten healthy, the Cowboys can’t move the ball the way they once did, and their explosive plays have dipped significantly. The Raiders defense isn’t terrible, but they are susceptible to the big play. If Brian Schottenheimer can jolt his offense awake in this one, it might give them the spark they need for a run.
Now onto the predictions from your BTB writers…
Tom Ryle (3-5-1):
I have no real confidence, but I’ll take Dallas.
Cowboys win, 31-16.
Mike Poland (4-4-1):
The Dallas Cowboys rank fourth in total points scored at 29 points per game. Las Vegas Raiders rank second-to-last at just 15 points per game. On third down, the Raiders defense ranks 28th at 45% conversion rate allowed, as opposed to Dallas where the offense ranks sixth at 43%.
So the Cowboys defense. Sure, things look bad this season, but they have DeMarvion Overshown coming back, Shavon Revel Jr. ready to make an appearance, and there’s the two trades made to help in the run defense and coverage. The arrows pointing up here this week.
Cowboys win 31-21.
Matt Holleran (3-5-1):
This week will without a doubt be an...
