Three keys to the Commanders-Cowboys game
Even the best teams can't afford to commit six turnovers, as the Commanders did in Sunday's second loss to the Giants this season. Even half that number will spell doom for Washington against Dallas, which tends to convert takeaways into points; DaRon Bland has already tied an NFL record with four pick-sixes this season, and Micah Parson is adept at strip sacks. The Cowboys rank second in the NFL against the pass but are pedestrian against the run. That should mean more carries for Brian Robinson Jr. and Chris Rodriguez. But both lost fumbles Sunday and can't afford a repeat.
Dak Prescott has been sacked 22 times this season. Ten of those came in Dallas' three losses. So have four of his six interceptions on the season. See a pattern here? Washington's front four regained its swagger Sunday with nine sacks against the Giants (thanks to a few more blitz calls from Jack Del Rio) and needs to continue the pressure, albeit against a much better offensive line in Dallas. The Commanders' defense ranks fourth in the league with 35 sacks, but only six teams have fewer interceptions than their six. They need to add to those numbers that to have a chance.
As the season spirals away and rumors swirl about coach Ron Rivera's job security (or lack thereof), it would be easy for the Commanders to phone it in on a short week, away from home, against a quality opponent - even a longtime rival like Dallas. Thursday's game will be a test not only of Rivera and his team's talent, but of its professionalism. The entire nation will tune in after lunch, expecting to see the Cowboys feast on a lesser opponent. The Commanders have shown an ability to surprise as heavy road underdogs, including wins over unbeatens Pittsburgh in 2020 and Philadelphia last year. Can they do it again?
Cowboys 33, Commanders 20
-Steve DeShazo
Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy .
