The Commanders offer a number of challenges to the Dallas Cowboys
The first time the Dallas Cowboys (12-4) played the Washington Commanders (7-8-1), the Cowboys won with QB Cooper Rush against Carson Wentz, in what was a double-digit victory that felt worse than what the scoreboard said. This time around, teams are in different positions. The Cowboys are getting ready for the playoffs, with QB Dak […]
The first time the Dallas Cowboys (12-4) played the Washington Commanders (7-8-1), the Cowboys won with QB Cooper Rush against Carson Wentz, in what was a double-digit victory that felt worse than what the scoreboard said.
This time around, teams are in different positions. The Cowboys are getting ready for the playoffs, with QB Dak Prescott at the helm. Still alive for the number one seed and playing at an elite level.
Meanwhile, the Commanders are eliminated from playoff contention. Following their third straight loss with Wentz's controversial return to the starting job. Now, with nothing to lose, rookie QB Sam Howell will get his first career start.
The defenses are also going in different directions.
While Dallas is starting to get back to being able to handle stopping the run, pass rush and coverage are issues. Primarily due to injuries, as well as wear and tear.
Washington, however, has reclaimed itself as one of the better defenses, especially on the defensive line. Three of whom have 7+ sacks, 10+ tackles for loss and 20+ QB pressures; Montez Sweat, DaRon Payne and Jonathan Allen.
A big issue for the Dallas Cowboys offensive line which is undergoing injuries and rotations at the wrong time.
The loss of OT Terence Steele has hurt the running game in a big way, which is suffering it's worst two-game span since the start of the season. C Tyler Biadasz is sitting due to a high ankle sprain, but is expected back for the playoffs.
Leaving Tyron Smith and Connor McGovern to fill their spots, respectively.
And while the Commanders don't have a daunting ariel assault, they averaged over 245 yards through the air the three games before last week. At the same time, the Cowboys secondary has allowed just under 900 yards the last three games.
The losses to both Jourdan Lewis and Anthony Brown have opened the door for DaRon Bland, but also created other problems. Nahshon Wright, Kelvin Joseph and Mackensie Alexander have all taken snaps as the third corner alongside Bland and Trevon Diggs. With less than stellar results.
Rookie Howell may not have much game experience but he has a plethora of weapons that can make life easier for him like Pro Bowl WR Terry MacLaurin, TE Logan Thomas and rookie touchdown machine WR Jahan Dotson. Who're not afraid to go deep.
While the Dallas Cowboys should still win this game, the Commanders have nothing to lose. Which can be a dangerous thing at the end of the season.
The Commanders offer a challenges that can affect a handful of recently struggling Cowboys game aspects. They can't be taken lightly.
Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel of USA TODAY Sports
