Dallas Cowboys at New York Jets: Predicting a winner

Even with Darnold returning to the lineup, this game for the Jets will come down to one man, Le’Veon Bell. This will be simple. If the Dallas Cowboys can contain Bell, they will likely win, but if they can’t, they will definitely lose.

We have to start believing our own eyes when it comes to the Cowboys run defense. A team that commits to the run has been the worst match-up for the Cowboys over the past two seasons. The Jets have a great running back and will need consistent play from their offensive line.

Darnold’s main job will be to stay away from turnovers and making an occasional 3rd down throw. In the meantime, get the ball in Bell’s hand any way he can and watch good things happen. The Jets will be at a talent deficit against the Cowboys, so execution will be key.

As The Landry Hat’s own Brad Austin mentioned recently, the Jets can disrupt an already shaky Cowboys offense. If Bell can take over early, this game could come down to the growing lack of confidence in the offensive line.

Prediction: Jets score no more than 21 points on the Dallas defense

Special Teams and Final Score Prediction

Special teams for the Dallas Cowboys is officially a problem. Brett Maher is shaky, at best, and the Cowboys will eventually need to replace him.  His untimely misses have many fans think back to Mr. Automatic, Bailey. Chris Jones is also borderline cut material. He consistently creates fair catches, but a lot of it is due to lack of distance.

As I mentioned in an earlier piece, Bailey’s shadow would loom large if Maher wasn’t consistent. He has indeed been inconsistent, and both Twitter and Facebook were rife with fans wanting Maher cut. Dallas needs to play a better game in all three phases. I believe this game will be close.

Final Score Prediction: Dallas Cowboys 24, New York Jets 21