The talk from both fans of the Dallas Cowboys and Seattle Seahawks has centered around letting their star quarterbacks “cook”. Seattle’s quarterback, Russell Wilson, continues his torrid deep passing, leading his team to a 2-0 start. Dak Prescott, meanwhile, rallied the team from a 20-0 first quarter deficit, in a thrilling 40-39 victory against Atlanta last week.
Entering the contest with Seattle at 1-1, the team has come to a familiar crossroads.
Under the previous regime, Dallas would probably come into this game looking to establish the run and assert their workhorse back Ezekiel Elliott against the Seahawks. Now, Mike McCarthy’s team should look to let Dak duel with Russ, much like he had to do with Matt Ryan last week. Against Seattle, with no benefit of the 12th man in the stands, look for Prescott to put up big numbers. The key in this game won’t come down to just the offense, however.
Defensive Test:
Dallas should have no trouble putting up points against the Seahawks. However, the true test will be in containing Russell Wilson. Historically, Wilson hasn’t put up huge numbers in his career against Dallas. Although, Seattle had the benefit of running with Marshawn Lynch and a lockdown defense to keep the game close. Now, both of these squads seem to have shifted their full faith behind their signal callers. Russell Wilson hasn’t garnered MVP votes over the past few years, but that looks destined to change this season. Down several key defenders, Dallas needs to keep Russ in the pocket, and not allow him to extend plays. The pass rush led by DeMarcus Lawrence and Aldon Smith will need to be on top of their game. Expect a quarterback duel that showcases both of these quarterbacks’ strengths.
Photo: Michael Lark/Dallas Sports Fanatic
Dallas Cowboys Offensive Gameplan:
The Cowboys have had a tendency to get outworked by their opponent in primetime road games. Going back to week 1, or to games against the Saints (Sunday Night Football) and Bears (Thursday Night Football) last season, Dallas has struggled to keep up. My personal gameplan for this team would be to take advantage of the lack of a crowd, and sling it with Prescott and his trio of star wideouts. I have some doubts, though. This week will be a litmus test for Kellen Moore, the prized offensive coordinator for Dallas. I want to see him trust his playmakers. Coming off a historic performance last week, Moore should continue letting Dak deal to his playmakers, and take the pressure off his team’s defense to make stops. America’s Game of the Week on Fox will be a great opportunity for this year’s team to show they are different.
Prediction:
This is a game the Dallas Cowboys can win. Plain and Simple. While Seattle has looked good to start the year, Dallas has the weapons to outscore the Hawks in a shootout. The key in this game will be not playing to keep the game close, as that will increase the pressure on a depleted Cowboys defense. Instead, Dak needs to have full control of this offense, and let his awareness and athleticism put pressure on the Seahawks, and shift momentum in the Cowboys’ favor. This game should be a classic. Seattle is the favorite, and the Cowboys will need to put their best foot forward. Sunday, look for Dallas to come out on top in a thriller.
Dallas: 38 Seattle: 34
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