The Cowboys’ incredible win streak has now stretched to 10. Never have two rookies brought this much impact to a team. We’re running out of adjectives to describe Dak Prescott, Ezekiel Elliot, and the Cowboys.
In their win during Thanksgiving day Thursday against the Redskins, Prescott’s mobility was on display. Although he had a quiet night on passing – 17-for-24 for 195 yards and one TD – he somehow made up for it on rushing, as he showed his escape ability and also ran for 39 meaningful yards and one score.
Elliot, NFL’s leader in yards from scrimmage (1,502), had the bigger spotlight in the game. With veteran-like skill and an offensive line who’s as strong as Space Jam’s Monstars, he again eclipsed 100 yards in total offense, while also running for two TDs.
Don’t look past the team’s receiving corps, though, especially Dez Bryant. The All-Pro doesn’t have strong numbers this year, but he has picked up the pace in their last three outings, recording 268 yards and three touchdowns.
The Cowboys offense is bringing averages of 28.3 points and 407.6 total yards per game, which are both top five in the league.
The pass rushers’ chances against the Vikings O-line should be good, but the inconsistent pass defense must be careful with Sam Bradford. They allow 280.3 passing yards per game and have given up 19 touchdowns, while also having the second fewest interceptions in the league, with four.
A full-blown collapse is definitely knocking on the Vikings’ door hard, and they are hanging on for dear life not to let it come in. They are now sitting nervously with a 6-5 record after opening the season with five impressive victories.
The loss to the Detroit Lions this past week (also on Thanksgiving day) dropped the Vikes into second place in the NFC North, and made the Lions the new division leader. It stemmed from Sam Bradford throwing a pick with only 40 seconds left in the fourth quarter. The Lions were able to capitalize and get within field goal range to get the 16-13 win.
That said, the QB undoubtedly deserves a pass. With a 71.3-completion rate and a 12-3 TD-INT ratio this season, he’s arguably their most consistent player. Also, it should be the least of their worries, because their running game still as threatening as a lost puppy. At 71 rushing yards per game, they are dead-last in the league.
Let’s not forget about the concerns in the O-line as well. They’ve been asleep for weeks and only woke up in that recent game (allowed zero sacks and only three QB hits). Against an average Cowboys pass rush, the unit should again have a decent showing.
The D-line could have an exciting clash with the Dallas pass protection, but they should be more cautious with their opponents’ elite run blocking, especially since the Vikes have allowed 100-plus rushing yards in their last six games. During that span, Minny is 1-5 SU and ATS.
