5 things to watch for in the Cowboys vs. Rams Week 5 NFC matchup

Oct 2, 2022; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys tight end Dalton Schultz (86) and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb (88) celebrates a touchdown against the Washington Commanders during the second half at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 2, 2022; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys tight end Dalton Schultz (86) and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb (88) celebrates a touchdown against the Washington Commanders during the second half at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
5 of 5
Next
Oct 2, 2022; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive end Dorance Armstrong (92) and linebacker Micah Parsons (11) tackle Washington Commanders running back Antonio Gibson (24) during the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Washington Commanders AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 2, 2022; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive end Dorance Armstrong (92) and linebacker Micah Parsons (11) tackle Washington Commanders running back Antonio Gibson (24) during the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Washington Commanders AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Can the Cowboys’ defense limit the run game?

One of the main reasons the Cowboys are 3-1 right now is how well the defense has been playing. They’ve been fantastic at getting to the quarterback and stopping any sort of production through the air.

However, one of the biggest things the defense has struggled with is the run game. Through Week 4, the Dallas defense ranks sixth in rushing yards allowed per game with 137.5 yards, five yards per carry, and 550 total yards.

Luckily for them, the Rams don’t put up a huge test in terms of their running backs. While Cam Akers and Darrell Henderson are both well-known names, they haven’t been very productive this season. As a team, the Rams average 68.5 rushing yards per game and 3.3 yards per carry.

If the ground game gets going, or Akers breaks out, or Henderson starts rolling, that could stir some issues for the defense. If they start trending toward stopping the run, that may leave opportunities open for Kupp and Allen Robinson to make some plays. Another big matchup to keep your eye on throughout the game.