This Week 15 matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and Minnesota Vikings is an important one for both organizations. Both teams are still technically in the playoff race, but the Cowboys are the ones that still have a realistic path. Minnesota is building for the future.
With home field advantage and arguably the better roster, the Dallas Cowboys are favored to win this game. To do so though, they need to win certain matchups to help sway the game in their favor. Here are the key matchups will be paying
particularly close attention to this week.
DT Quinnen Williams vs. RB Aaron Jones
Aaron Jones is coming off his second highest rushing game (76 yards) this year with the Vikings and could really be looking forward to this Week 15 matchup. The success he had against the Cowboys over the years is undeniable. In his last four games against them he’s scored a total of nine touchdowns. That was then though and this is now. Quinnen Williams’ addition has much improved in Dallas’ run defense, with the exception of last week against the Lions. This could be a first time in a long time the Cowboys managed to shut down Aaron Jones.
CB DaRon Bland vs. WR Justin Jefferson
With only 810 receiving yards and two touchdowns, Justin Jefferson isn’t having the type of season expected from a player of his caliber. Most is that it’s due to the erratic QB play the Vikings have struggled through this season. Jefferson is still Minnesota’s best offensive weapon and someone who has to be accounted for. That job could fall to DaRon Bland, who is having somewhat of a down season himself. It’s going to be interesting if Bland is asked to shadow Jefferson this week and to see who might get the better of the other.
RB Javonte Williams vs. Vikings’ run defense
Javonte Williams’ production has dipped a little over the last few games due to the Cowboys playing from behind after getting off to slow starts, but things could change for the better for No. 33 this week against Minnesota. Williams has two 100+ rushing yard games so far this season with the Cowboys and there’s a good chance he could make it three in this Week 15 matchup against the Vikings. They are currently allowing 126.8 rushing yards per game, ranking 22nd in the league. This is a matchup that could help the sway the game in the Cowboys favor.
