Cowboys vs Vikings Week 11: history, key players, projection

Cowboys vs Vikings: “Under the Radar” Players

Dallas Cowboys: Jayron Kearse, S

First things first, the matchup to watch in this game is Trevon Diggs going against Justin Jefferson. Diggs was targeted just one single time against Aaron Rodgers last week displaying the immense respect he has attained from quarterbacks. Jefferson is coming off of a career game that saw him rack up 193 receiving yards. This is unquestionably the flagship matchup to watch.

While that matchup is key, 10 other players on each side have to step up and make a difference to help win this game. For the Cowboys, they will have their hands full dealing with a Vikings offense that has more than ample talent. Safety Jayron Kearse and his versatility will be vital.

After Jefferson, the Vikings’ next X-factor on offense is running back Dalvin Cook. He can run the ball, catch it, and do whatever is asked of him. Kearse drops down in the run game, he can run with backs and tight ends in the passing game, and he is a key puzzle piece for Dan Quinn to move around.

If Diggs can slow down Jefferson, because stopping him is so hard, Kearse could be tasked with taking away the next weapon. Should he succeed at that, the Cowboys’ defense could force some tough sledding for quarterback Kirk Cousins.

Minnesota Vikings: Adam Thielen, WR

Where the Vikings can hurt you is further down the line of receivers. Once their No. 1 receiver, Adam Thielen has big game experience. He has played with Kirk Cousins for multiple seasons and seems to have an innate ability to wiggle open on key plays.

Thielen averages just 51.9 receiving yards per game on 4.7 catches so he is not a huge candidate to explode like Jefferson did but he has more than enough ability to get loose and convert back-breaking third downs and find the end zone.

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