Why It Matters

The Boys’ are still in the playoff hunt. Although they need outside help ( teams with tie-breakers against the Cowboys need to drop a couple games), and Dallas must run the table.  Losses from the Packers and the Buccaneers this week would help clear a playoff path for the Cowboys.

In addition, Dallas, (7-6 overall) gets Ezekiel Elliot back from his suspension after tonight’s game. If the Cowboys can improve to 8-6 tonight, Elliot can return and ride the momentum of a 3-game win streak into a Christmas Eve showdown with the Seattle Seahawks. Given the fact that Dallas started off 0-3 without Elliot in consecutive crushing losses, Dallas earning a .500 record without him would be nothing short of a Christmas miracle.

But there is another dog in tonight’s fight (no Mike Vick pun intended). The Oakland Raiders (6-7) still have breath in the AFC West, and want a coveted wildcard spot as well. Following their 26-16 loss to Kansas City last week, Oakland will undoubtedly be looking to bounce back at home.

A tale of Two Pass Rushes

Fun fact, Dallas has received massive production from David Irving in 2017 ( 8 sacks in 7 games played). Fun fact #2, he is ruled out for tonight’s game due to a concussion. This means NFL sack-leader Demarcus Lawrence ( 13.5), must shoulder more of the pass-rush responsibilities. Dallas’ ability to control a game with dominant defensive line play has been critical to their success this season, and will be necessary to slow down Oakland’s arsenal of offensive weapons.

For the Raiders, linebacker Bruce Irvin has caught fire lately. Irvin leads the NFL in sacks since week 12- with 5. Recording multiple sacks in 2 of his last 3 games. Though he’s not the only Raider who has gotten to the quarterback lately. The trio of Irvin, Denico Autry, and Khalil Mack have notched a combined total of 11 sacks in the past 3 games alone.

Players not Suiting Up Tonight Include:

Cowboys Cornerback Orlando Scandrick is still recovering from a back injury suffered against the Redskins in week 13. Both Justin Durant and David Irving will sit due to concussions. Former Oakland Raider receiver Brice Butler, will not be active because of a foot injury.

For the Raiders, both pass-rusher Mario Edwards Jr. and receiver Amari Cooper will sit with ankle injuries. Tight End Clive Walford will sit with an injury to his neck. Last but not least, safety Obi Melifonwu will not play because of his hip.

So Who Has the Edge?

Dallas is favored in tonight’s match up. And rightfully so.It would appear the Cowboys have finally found an effective offensive strategy without Elliot. Cowboys fans just hope it isn’t too little too late. The Cowboys are primed for one last solid performance against this Raiders defense.  The Raider’s have a formidable front 7, but their secondary continues to be a liability. The Raiders rank 26th in the league in total defense, and have only one interception by a defensive back this season. One.

If the Raiders are able to slow down the Cowboys rushing attack, quarterback Dak Prescott should be able to throw effectively against the Oakland defense, ultimately serving to “reset” the ground game. The Cowboys are simply the more balanced team. Oakland’s offense has been surprisingly mediocre in 2017 ( 21st overall), and has only put up 30 points twice all season. The Cowboys’ defense, on the other hand,  has been stingy when all pro linebacker Sean Lee has been on the field.

Ultimately, if the game is on the line, I don’t trust the Raiders defense to make the game-winning play. Advantage Cowboys.