3 keys to help Cowboys beat Washington on Sunday

1. Let Dak Cook

Quarterback Dak Prescott has had quite the success against Washington in his short career so far. In eight games, the former Mississippi State star has a record of 7-1 throwing for 1,866 yards, 13 touchdowns, and one interception with a passer rating of 111.2. However, Prescott hasn’t faced Washington since Week 17 of the 2019 season. He also has yet to face this revamped defense and head coach Ron Rivera in the division.

The good news for the 28-year-old quarterback is that he won’t have to face Washington’s defense at full strength. Washington will be without defensive end Chase Young, who tore his ACL earlier this season, and defensive end Montez Sweat, who was placed on the reserve/covid-19 list. Still, the Washington defense has been more than outstanding without two of their better pass rushers. Over its last five games, this defense has allowed less than 20 points four times.

However, Prescott is getting most of his weapons back and fully healthy in this game. Dallas did have all three wide receivers active last week, but wide receiver Amari Cooper was limited to just 24 snaps. With a banged-up backfield for Dallas, running back Ezekiel Elliott dealing with a knee injury, and running back Tony Pollard nursing a foot injury, this is all the more reason to let Dak cook.