Dallas Cowboys @ San Francisco 49ers: Eight Staff Game Predictions

Steven Mullenax, Site Expert

Prediction: The Dallas Cowboys come into Sunday’s matchup against the San Francisco 49ers at home on a two-game winning streak. And the Cowboys current style of play travels well on the road. A formidable running game supported by a mistake-free passing game and a defense that has a knack for coming up with the big play when the team needs it the most.

This is a Niners’ squad that blanked the L.A. Rams at home 28-0 their opening week, and then proceeded to get smoked by the Carolina Panthers and Seattle Seahawks on the road their last two contests. Make no mistake, this 49ers squad is not as bad as their record indicates, as their two losses so far this season have come against two of the better teams in the NFL.

Now returning home, the Niners are poised to get an upset game over the Cowboys. Unfortunately, they do not appear to have the firepower to stay with Dallas. If quarterback Blaine Gabbert can play a solid clean game, and running back Carlos Hyde can build on his 103-yard, two score performance against the Seahawks last week; then the Niners have a chance.

But my money is on rookie quarterback Dak Prescott continuing to show way he’s been the talk of the league in the first month of the season. Although he’ll likely be without All-Pro wide receiver Dez Bryant, Prescott’s style will allow him to spread the ball around to the Cowboys other wide outs while also using his legs efficiently when needed.

Cowboys rookie running back Ezekiel Elliott should have another solid day against a 49ers squad that ranks 22nd in the NFL in rushing defense, allowing an average of 122.7 yards on the ground to opposing offenses.

Final Score: Dallas Cowboys 34, San Francisco 49ers 23