Cowboys vs. Cardinals: 4 who could shine Monday night
The Dallas Cowboys could see these four players shine Monday night in prime time
In what will end three-straight home games at AT&T Stadium, the 2-3 Dallas Cowboys are set to take on the 3-2 Arizona Cardinals on Monday Night Football in Week Six. It will be the first game in over four years where quarterback Dak Prescott isn’t starting under center for America’s Team.
Prescott suffered a season-ending ankle injury against the New York Giants last Sunday, forcing backup Andy Dalton into the starting role. Here are four names who could shine Monday night and help Dalton get his first victory in Dallas.
Ezekiel Elliott, Tony Pollard, RBs
With Dalton under center, the running game figures to be a much bigger focus for the offense in Dallas. Especially considering the current state of the Cowboys’ offensive line with starters in left tackle Tyron Smith and right tackle La’el Collins out for the season.
This bodes well for one of the league’s top-rushing duos in Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard, as both should see increased opportunities against a Cardinals’ rushing defense that allows an average of 124.2 yards on the ground per game.
Cedrick Wilson Jr., WR
Prior to being thrust into the starting role, Dalton often worked with the team’s second-unit during practice sessions and throughout training camp. This often builds better chemistry with backup wide receivers rather than the starters.
So we could see an early focus by Dalton to target Cedrick Wilson Jr., the team’s fourth wideout on the depth chart. Wilson has already shown earlier this season that he’s capable of putting up big numbers, recording five catches for 107 yards and two touchdowns against the Seattle Seahawks in Week Three.
Related Story. Should the Dallas Cowboys trade for safety Justin Simmons?. light
Greg Zuerlein, K
With a new quarterback at the helm, some early bumps in the road are to be expected. One area the Cowboys’ offense could struggle with is in the red zone. If this is the case, it could turn out to be a banner day for kicker Greg Zuerlein.
Entering this contest, Zuerlein has connected on eight of his nine field-goal attempts, the one miss coming back in Week One. He’s also missed two extra-point attempts, both at Seattle in Week Three.