Atlanta went into Week 10 on a 3-game winning streak that put them back into the wild card discussion. But, in a home game against the reeling Browns, it looked like the dirty birds were looking ahead to this week’s match with Dallas.
Dallas, meanwhile, took care of business against the defending Super Bowl champion Eagles. A loss would have all-but-eliminated the Cowboys from playoff contention. Instead, Dallas remains in striking distance of the division-leading Redskins.
Cowboys vs Falcons Preview
Not many predicted that would be the case after a harsh loss in Week 9. But the team put the offense in the hands of their quarterback Dak Prescott in a bid to show opponents they can’t ignore the rest of the offense and focus on running back Ezekiel Elliott.
The strategy worked as Prescott did enough to distract the Eagles as Elliott racked up his own numbers.
Now, both teams find themselves behind the pack of NFC wild-card contenders and in need of a big win to get them back to .500 and keep their playoff hopes alive. The loser won’t be eliminated, but at 4-6 and with another conference loss, the going will be tough.
Injuries and notes:
Dallas’ left guard Conner Williams is questionable with a knee injury. If he can’t go, Prescott will undoubtedly see more pressure.
But the Cowboys have more concerns on defense. Linebacker Sean Lee could miss several games. With defensiveend, Taco Charleton (shoulder), tackle David Irving (ankle), and linebacker Joe Thomas (foot) all banged up, others will need to step up against Atlanta’s potent offense.
Tavon Austin (groin) is also questionable for Week 11.
For Atlanta, kicker Matt Bryant will test his hamstring again before a final decision is made, but he is expected to return this week.
Coaching matchup:
Jason Garrett survived a week of questions about his future in Dallas that saw owner Jimmy Jones add the word “midseason” to his statement that there will be no coaching changes. Garrett has survived worse, but he needs to keep the Cowboys in contention in a weak NFL East to assure he returns in 2019.
Atlanta coach Dan Quinn is as secure as any other head coach in this league, but this week’s loss to the Browns in what is supposed to be a playoff season saw local beat writers questioning his status for the first time in a while.
If his team was looking ahead to the Cowboys, they better put this game away in front of their home fans.
How to watch the Falcons-Cowboys games
Fox Sports will broadcast this game to any market without a competing local game in Sunday’s first time slot.
That means millions of NFL fans can watch the game on DirecTV Now. DirecTV Now is the internet TV division of the big satellite company. But DirecTV Now is way cheaper and doesn’t make you sign a silly contract or pay for expensive equipment.
All DirecTV Now does is let you watch live stream NFL action, as well as dozens of other movie and entertainment channels, from almost any internet-connected device for a fraction of what cable and satellite charge you.
DirecTV Now and other internet TV providers like Fubo TV and Sling offer free trial periods, too. So you don’t have to take our word for it. Sign up for free today and see why so many Americans have already cut the cord with cable and satellite companies to join the internet TV revolution.
Who will win the Falcons-Cowboys game?
This match features two quality teams desperate for a win. Atlanta entered the season with a stated goal of contending for a Super Bowl appearance in front of their home fans. Dallas expected their improved defense to let them challenge the Eagles for the NFC East title.
Dallas comes in with more momentum, but Atlanta has the better overall roster. In front of the home fans, that will be enough.
