Instincts at Play: Staff Predictions for
Cowboys vs. Browns Matchup
The waiting game is over. The Cowboys head to Cleveland on Saturday, gearing up for Sunday’s Week 1 showdown with the Browns.
This matchup pits last year's No. 1 scoring team, the Cowboys, who averaged 29.9 points per game, against the league’s top total defense, with the Browns allowing just over 270 yards per game.
It’s a high-powered offense against an elite defense, but there’s more: Cleveland went 8-1 at home last season, making it an even tougher challenge for Dallas. Here's what the staff writers predict for the Cowboys vs. Browns game.
**Nick Eatman:** It’s worrisome when everyone predicts a close, low-scoring game, which usually leads to a shootout like the 48-39 game from 2020. However, this year feels different. Both defenses are improved, and the team that makes the key play in the second half will win. I expect a sloppy first half with turnovers, but Brandin Cooks will make a late big play to set up a Cowboys touchdown. Micah Parsons will shine with two sacks, causing more problems for Cleveland’s O-line than Myles Garrett will for Dallas. Cowboys win 20-13.
**Nick Harris:** This game will be decided in the trenches. Dallas will field two rookie offensive linemen against Cleveland's experienced defensive front, while Dallas' D-line will target a weakened Browns O-line. Expect a tough, physical battle with the stronger defense emerging victorious. Cowboys edge it 17-13.
**Kyle Youmans:** Cleveland’s top-ranked pass defense from last year will challenge Dallas’ potent passing attack, while the Browns’ run game could exploit the Cowboys’ weakness. But the key factor will be turnover margin. Cleveland had the most turnovers last season, while Dallas led the league in takeaways. With both teams adjusting to new coordinators, I believe Dallas will secure extra possessions that make the difference in a gritty defensive game. Cowboys win 20-17.
**Mickey Spagnola:** Expect Ezekiel Elliott to surprise skeptics and run effectively against Cleveland’s stout defense. If the Cowboys' O-line, featuring two rookie starters, can hold its own, Zeke will shine. A balanced run game with Rico Dowdle, Deuce Vaughn, and Hunter Luepke will keep the Browns' defense honest, leading the Cowboys to a 23-20 victory.
**Patrik Walker:** This will be a true dogfight. The Browns boast one of the NFL’s best defenses and a dangerous offense led by former Cowboy Amari Cooper. But with Deshaun Watson playing his first game since shoulder surgery, expect some rust and panic if he takes early hits. With starting left tackle Jedrick Wills out and right tackle Jack Conklin questionable, Dallas can pressure Watson and neutralize Cleveland's weapons. Offensively, Elliott and Dowdle will surprise behind a revamped O-line, opening up opportunities for Dak Prescott. The game stays close for three quarters, but Dallas pulls away in the fourth. Cowboys win 28-17. See Moor....
Instincts at Play: Staff Predictions for Cowboys vs. Browns Matchup
Views:
Category:
0 $type={blogger}:
Post a Comment