Dallas Cowboys Vs. Minnesota Vikings: Game Preview

In this game the trenches will be the decision maker. The Cowboys pass rush has become feared league-wide and they’re showing no signs of slowing down. Jay Ratliff will lead an attack that I believe will penetrate this offensive line while allowing Olshanksy and Spears to plug-up the holes. I believe that our Defensive line is the stability of this defense and are showing they can get it done on all levels.

On the other side Minnesota offers an offensive line that I don’t consider to be game changing. However, given the explosive offensive weapons, they do a considerable job paving the way for Adrian Peterson. Highlighted by Hutchinson and McKinnie, you better believe they’ll be emotionally and physically prepared to take on the speedy Dallas Defense.

Advantage: Dallas

On the other side of the ball is a large and mean offensive line. The Problem here lies completely with Flozell Adams, who will be matched up with all-pro Jared Allen. While I believe Leonard Davis, Marc Colombo, and Kyle Kosier will perform up to par, it’s the mistakes and speed that Flo brings to the table that will cost this offense and ultimately keep Tony Romo from getting comfortable.

Jared Allen, Kevin Williams, Pat Williams, and Ray Edwards—need I say more? This defensive line is strong, fast, and deadly. They will plug holes and harass Tony Romo all day. Bottom line is this: These are some of the toughest guys in the league. They represent the league’s second ranked rush defense, and are responsible for 47 sacks this season.

Advantage: Minnesota

This is a battle of numbers. Dallas’ sixth ranked pass offense goes against Minnesota’s 19th ranked pass defense. No Matter what people say, the compliment that Roy Williams gives Miles Austin is a big deal. Roy still requires attention especially as he starts to show his real self again. Match that with Patrick Crayton’s impressive play out of the slot and you’ve got a combination of players with great play ability.

A real key to this matchup will lie in the play of Antoine Winfield, who will play in only his second game back from a seven game layoff due to injury. If the Vikings’ corners can stop themselves from biting on some of the double moves and cuts, I think they could be a factor. However, I don’t see that happening and I believe that our receivers can really play big against this team.

Advantage: Dallas

Mike Jenkins is the hottest defensive back in the playoffs right now. He is making every play needed to be considered a shut-down corner. It’s Jenkins emergence that has overshadowed the play of Terence Newman, who has been absolutely lights out. Newman was really the one who shut down DeSean Jackson but they’ll both have their hands full this weekend. I believe the major problem comes when Percy Harvin comes in the slot, Scandrick needs to be able to stop him and while he’s shown some improvement late this season, he’s still struggled.

This is an explosive group of receivers as long as Favre is throwing the ball. I believe that in reality this is a mediocre group, besides maybe Harvin who has flourished. This unit will outplay the Dallas DB’s if they are given time to develop routes and get open, and they just might.

Advantage: Draw

Here’s a big part of both teams game plans. Felix Jones was explosive against a tough Philly Defense. Marion Barber was a non-factor. What needs to be done this week will create a large role for Marion Barber. He will need to be the punishing ball carrier he is known as to wear down a tough defense so El Gato can gash them. But given Barber’s sore knee, it’s unclear right now, and likely up until game time, if he’ll be ready to go. The key here will be how the Minnesota linebackers handle Jason Witten—he has the ability to destroy any team.

Minnesota’s linebackers have been in search of their identity since E.J. Henderson left for the season. Since then, they have been less successful against the run. I still think they have talent. However, I don’t believe they have enough talent here to deal with the likes of John Phillips, Martellus Bennett, Jason Witten, Felix Jones, Marion Barber, and Tashard Choice. I believe this is the area where Dallas can really control this game.

Advantage: Dallas

OK, this is hard to argue. DeMarcus Ware and Anthony Spencer may be the best OLB tandem in the league. Mix that with the emotional and inspirational play of Keith Brooking and Bradie James and you have a tough group. Also, where did Bobby Carpenter come from? Carpenter has done a good job covering tight ends. This is the league’s fourth ranked rush defense—allowing only 85 yards a game—and still they manage to terrify opposing quarterbacks with 47 sacks across 17 games.

All that being said, Adrian Peterson may be the best back in the league. Chester Taylor does a terrific job spelling Adrian Peterson, and Visanthe Shiancoe is as good as they come from the tight end position. If Adrian Peterson can break through the initial level he can take it to the house on a Dallas Defense who lacks tackling ability in the upper levels.

Advantage: Draw

T Marc Colombo – Ankle
(Probable)

S Pat Watkins – Knee
(Probable)

RB Marion Barber – Knee
(Probable)

S Gerald Sensabaugh – Thumb
(Probable)

LB DeMarcus Ware – Wrist/Back
(Probable)

DT Jimmy Kennedy – Thumb
(Questionable)

FB Naufau Tahi – Back
(Questionable)

TE Visanthe Shiancoe – Quadriceps
(Probable)

DT Pat Williams – Elbow
(Probable)

G Steve Hutchinson – Shoulder
(Probable)

P Chris Kluwe – Back
(Probable)

CB Antoine Winfield – Foot
(Probable)