3 player matchups to watch for in Cowboys vs 49ers
123. 10-7. 42. Sunday, Jan 16. 4:30 PM ET. CBS. 12-5. Cowboys -3
The NFL playoffs have finally arrived and the Dallas Cowboys will square off with the San Francisco 49ers on Super Wild Card Weekend. This game sets up as a heavyweight fight between two of the most physical teams in the NFC.
The 49ers on one side are built by their run game and defense, while the Cowboys are built by their pass game and takeaways on defense. Both teams are loaded with really good players and this will most likely be a close game as the oddsmakers at WynnBet currently have the Cowboys sitting at -3.
Without further ado, here are the top 3 player matchups to look out for in the 49ers vs Cowboys matchup.
These Cowboys-49ers matchups could decide Sunday’s game.
3. Tyron Smith vs. Nick Bosa
Niners defensive end Nick Bosa has been a terror all year for opposing offensive linemen. Bosa had 15.5 sacks this year which ranked fourth in the NFL. What makes Bosa extremely dangerous is his ability to rush at both left and right ends.
According to NinersNation, Bosa is the only player in the NFL with 6+ sacks at both left and right end. So even though Tyron Smith is mentioned as his potential matchup, he will also have plenty of rushes against Cowboys right tackle La’el Collins. Head coach Mike McCarthy even knows the defensive end is a big threat.
Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy on 49ers edge rusher Nick Bosa: "There's only one number you need to look at: his quarterback hits."
— Jori Epstein (@JoriEpstein) January 12, 2022
Bosa has 32 QBH this season. Third-most in NFL after T.J. Watt (39), Myles Garrett (33). Micah Parsons T-4th at 30. pic.twitter.com/9rlpx3DwNc
When healthy Smith has been really good this season for Dallas. He has played 738 offensive snaps and only allowed 2 sacks. His PFF grade for this year was also 91.9. The Cowboys should feel confident in Smith matching up with Bosa.
Ultimately, keeping Bosa and the rest of the 49ers’ defensive line off of quarterback Dak Prescott will be key in having offensive success on Sunday. Running the ball will be an effective way of slowing down Bosa and limiting his pass-rush.
Keep an eye on Bosa throughout the game, and depending on where he lines up, let us hope Smith or Collins can neutralize him.