The Dallas Cowboys have a critical matchup with the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday. Led by quarterback Trevor Lawrence, the Jaguars present a dangerous opponent to the 10-3 Cowboys.

Dallas is a road favorite over the AFC South squad, but the Jaguars have shown the ability to compete with playoff-caliber competition. Lawrence is playing well, making difficult throws look easy, and putting Jacksonville in position to succeed.

Running back Trevor Etienne is an effective playmaker with the ball in his hands. But, the Cowboys must be able to stop the pass on Sunday. And that won't be the easiest thing to do against the ascending Jags.

That means that x-factor for the Cowboys is obvious: it's the cornerback position. We know what to expect from Trevon Diggs. The safety position has been a strength, too. But there is a hole at corner aside from the All-Pro Diggs.

Unproven Cowboys are key to success

Anthony Brown, for all of the criticism that he received, provided some stability at the CB2 spot. When he went down against the Colts, it created a hole and some question marks for Dan Quinn and the Cowboys' defense moving forward.

Kelvin Joseph and Da'Ron Bland are the two in position to step up. The two did not have to face the best that the Texans had to offer last week, as Brandin Cooks did not suit up for the game. This week, though, the cornerbacks will need to be up to the challenge versus an underrated Jaguars receiving corps.

Christian Kirk has had a bit of a breakout season with the Jaguars, emerging as a go-to target from the slot. Zay Jones and Marvin Jones have each had their big moments, too. Tight end Evan Engram will likely be defended by the safeties, but he is coming off a monster performance.

The question is: Are the Cowboys cornerbacks up for the challenge — this week and beyond?

It is a must that the Dallas Cowboys need their youthful cornerbacks to grow up — fast. The playoffs are just around the corner. So, they need to get adjusted to their new roles quickly in order to not be a weakness on a stellar unit.

Da'Ron Bland has flashed in a big way. Kelvin Joseph has had some positive moments as well. It's time for them to emerge as reliable contributors if the Dallas Cowboys are going to make a deep run in the postseason.

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