The Dallas Cowboys are one week removed from a heartbreaking 31-30 loss to the Detroit Lions. While that was a tough pill to swallow, it should’ve showed this staff what they need to work on. This week the Cowboys face another NFC North foe in the Minnesota Vikings. Here are my key match-ups of the game.
Kevin Williams against the interior offensive line
Kevin Williams has been a focal point on that defensive line for the past 11 seasons and could be a disruptive force again today. I fully expect Travis Frederick to help either guard contain him today. If Williams gets one on one with Mackenzie Bernadeau, you can expect him to be in the backfield most of the game. These two tackles will have their hands full with Jared Allen so don’t expect any help from them, if Dallas expects to get a run game going stopping Williams from penetrating is the key.
Dez Bryant against the Vikings Secondary
Dez Bryant was in the news all week for his rants on the sideline, but it seems that was a kneejerk reaction by most in the media. He should be fired up for this game and it couldn’t be a better time to get the ball to Dez. Last week he only had three receptions for 72 yards and two scores. He was only targeting six times which can’t continue for your best offensive weapon. Expect Dez to take advantage of this young and beat up secondary.
DeMarco Murray Returns
For the first time since the Washington game, Dallas will have their feature back taking snaps. Murray is averaging 4.7 yards per carry and 6.8 yards per reception. He is a phenomenal blocker and a very physical blocker. Murray adds a presence to this running game that Lance Dunbar, Joseph Randle and Phillip Tanner just can’t bring. Expect him to keep this defense honest by not allowing this team to be one-dimensional this afternoon.
Prediction and Player of the Game
Vegas has the Cowboys as a 10 point favorite, however I don’t see them blowing the Vikings away.Give me the Cowboys 27-21 for the much needed win and some confidence before next week’s matchup with the New Orleans Saints. Tony Romo should be player of today’s game with over 300 yards passing and two touchdowns.
