Blogging The Boys
The Dallas Cowboys are looking for their first win of the year, and they’ll try to get on the board in front of their own fans when they kick off their home schedule Sunday against the Giants. They’ve often fared well against this franchise, especially when Dak Prescott suits up, so optimism is a bit strong right now in Dallas.
That’s why it’s perhaps a bit surprising to see the Cowboys favored by just 5.5 points. The Giants were manhandled in Week 1 by a Commanders team that just got manhandled by the Packers, while Dallas lost a close one against the Eagles. Do our writers think it’ll be that tight? Let’s find out.
Take away the big plays
The Giants are officially in their Russell Wilson era, though whispers abound that first round-rookie Jaxson Dart could make his debut any day now. Wilson has always loved the deep ball – the Steelers practically built their entire passing game last year out of Wilson throwing moon balls to George Pickens – and he’s at his best when testing defenses vertically.
The best thing the Commanders did last week was take that away. Wilson attempted just one pass of 20+ yards, and his average depth of target of 6.7 yards was well below his usual style. The Cowboys got burned on a few deep shots last week, but if they can take away that facet of the game for Wilson, it’ll force the Giants to play a brand of offense they’re not equipped for.
Pound the rock
The Cowboys ran the ball really well last week, finishing second in rush success rate and seeing lots of production from Javonte Williams. Miles Sanders even looked good before that costly fumble. Their 5.4 yards per carry was fifth-most in Week 1, a strong start considering it came against the Eagles.
Well, the Giants were dreadful against the run last week, giving up 6.9 yards per carry. Some of that was inflated by scrambles from Jayden Daniels, but New York still gave up 183 rushing yards on designed runs. The Cowboys want to run the ball, and they should be able to pound the rock early and often in this one.
Now onto the predictions from your BTB writers…
Tom Ryle (1-0):
While there are always worries about a trap game, I have to believe the Cowboys are going to be the much better team. It is troubling that DaRon Bland is likely out, but Russell Wilson isn’t striking fear into anyone. And I expect CeeDee Lamb to be on a mission. Call me foolish, but I’m looking for a big win.
Cowboys 36, Giants 16.
Matt Holleran (1-0):
I think the Cowboys will come out this week and simply be better than the Giants on both sides of the ball. Dallas’ offense puts up plenty of points and their defense forces some turnovers or gives them...
