The Dallas Cowboys got a much needed victory over the Philadelphia Eagles last week and will be looking to extend their win streak in the Week 8 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. This is a team that beat them 27-17 last year in a surprising upset, and would probably love nothing more than to do so once again.
To avoid another upset, Dallas needs to take advantage of certain matchups to sway the game in their favor, which we discuss below.
RB Javonte Williams vs. Cardinals’ run defense
Javonte Williams is coming off his best game of the season,
and one of the best of his entire professional career, after rushing for 155 yards and a touchdown on 25 carries last week against the Eagles. His physicality and ability to pick up chunk yards helped balance out the Cowboys offense, which led to one of their most productive games of the season.
The game plan should look much the same this week against the Cardinals who currently ranked 23rd in the league and run defense, allowing 126.3 rushing yards per game. If the Cowboys offensive line continues to open holes like they did last week, Williams should have his second 100+ rushing yard game of the season and help sway the game in Dallas’ favor.
Cowboys’ secondary vs. Cardinals’ TE Trey McBride
Trey McBride is the Cardinals best, and most consistent, offensive weapon. He is coming off his best game of the year against the Broncos when he caught 10 passes for 111 yards and a touchdown, and will be looking to repeat that type of success against the Cowboys struggling secondary. Last year Dallas was able to hold him to just five catches for 55 yards and a TD and will attempt to do the same in this Week 8 matchup.
McBride’s production and the outcome of the game could depend on who Christian Parker assigns to contain Arizona’s All-Pro TE. Will it be the young rookie Caleb Downs, or someone else? Whoever it is will have their hands full against one of the league’s best TEs.
RT Terence Steele vs. Cardinals’ OLB Josh Sweat
Opponents this week, teammates the next? Rumors continue to swirl the Cowboys could be planning on acquiring Josh Sweat via trade before the November 10 deadline. He only has two QB sacks on the year through the first seven weeks of the season, and there some concerns about his desire for a new contract, but that hasn’t stopped rumors will be playing for another team soon.
A lot of eyes will be on him this week and how he performs against Terence Steele. He could sway the game in the Cardinals favor with a big game and also increase his odds of him getting dealt and potentially landing the new contract he’s seeking.
