Cowboys vs. Saints: Final Score Predictions
Sep 13, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive end Jeremy Mincey (92) motions to the crowd during the game against the New York Giants at AT&T Stadium. Dallas won 27-26. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Staff Writer: Brad Austin
Prediction: The NFL is a week-to-week proposition. Every match-up has it’s own set of circumstances. The defensive failures of last week will bear little resemblance to the coming battle.
The Cowboys lost to the Falcons because they didn’t have enough quality defensive linemen. A defense cannot hold down the 4th best passing offense in football without a pass rush.
Here’s the good news, the Saints aren’t nearly as talented on offense as Atlanta. They don’t have a game breaking receiver like Julio Jones. While a less than 100% Drew Brees (or back-up Luke McCown) at QB is a far cry from savvy veteran Matt Ryan.
More importantly, Jeremy Mincey (last year’s sack leader) rejoins the defensive line to hold the edge on runs, and pressure the quarterback. There’s a huge difference playing with a proven veteran like Mincey, instead of career back-up and 4th string DE Jack Crawford.
The Dallas defense was severely under-manned last week and ran into a buzz saw offense. They’ll never be at such a disadvantage again with the front seven starters arriving soon. On Sunday, Mincey’s return will be enough to limit the Saints.
On defense, New Orleans is highly suspect. They’ve allowed 28 points per game and 397 total yards per game. Both rank them in the bottom seven of the league.
The Cowboys will be able to run with authority at a level not yet seen. At the same time, Weeden will have much more room to get the ball further downfield through the air.
Expect a massive effort from an 0-3 Saints team that’s desperate for a win. Don’t put it past head coach Sean Payton to toss in a couple of trick plays.
Dallas will stiffen on defense now that the same group that beat the Eagles is back for this one. The offense will move the ball with regularity on the ground and through the air.
The Cowboys streak of 10 straight roads wins will not succumb on Sunday night in the Big Easy.
Final Score: Dallas Cowboys 30, New Orleans Saints 23
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