Patriots – Cowboys, Who Has the Razor’s Edge? Key Matchups
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Cowboys RBs vs NE Front Seven – Razor’s Edge Dallas
The Cowboys offensive line hasn’t been the dominant unit of a year ago. Here’s an opportunity for them to re-establish themselves against a unit that’s been a bit of a disappointment against the run. Joseph Randle and Darren McFadden will look to get things going against NE and keep Brady and the Pats offense on the sideline. Look for Christine Michael to get a lot of looks in this one…he’s been the unknown factor so far.
The Patriots beefed up their front seven with three additions with an eye towards this game. They traded with New Orleans for DL Akiem Hicks, traded with Chicago for LB Jon Bostic and signed DL Khyri Thornton off the practice squad. But they really need big bodies Sealver Siliga, Alan Branch, Malcom Brown and Dominique Easley to step up and play well inside. Setting the edge will be paramount this week, expect to see a lot of Jabaal Sheard at DE.
Cowboys WRs vs NE Secondary- Razor’s Edge New England
With Tony Romo and Dez Bryant on the shelf with injuries, the going won’t be quite as tough for the Patriots. But the Cowboys still have some options in the passing game with Terrence Williams, Devin Street and Cole Beasley. Losing Dunbar is a big blow for Dallas as he functions like Lewis does for New England in their offense. But the big matchup for Dallas will be their two big tight ends Jason Witten and Gavin Escobar. Look for Dallas to target them early and often in an attempt to get the offense going and attacking the middle of the field.
New England still has some questions about the RCB position and Weeden is putting up solid numbers but is 0-10 in his last ten starts. Bill Belichick will try to bait him into making some mistakes and creating turnovers. The Patriots pass rush has been improved but will have a tough test against this Dallas OL. Look for Dont’a Hightower and Jamie Collins to influence things with some well timed A-gap blitzes.
Special Teams- Razor’s Edge New England
The Patriots have two very reliable kickers on the roster in the likes of P Ryan Allen and K Stephen Gostkowski, the latter who just set a new NFL record for consecutive extra points. After watching the slate of last week’s games and the struggles of team’s ST units, it makes one appreciate the excellence that Gostkowski has brought to the table.
Dallas had the explosive Dunbar on STs, which is a big loss for them. Dallas does have reliable K Dan Bailey and P Chris Jones. But the edge in the kicking game goes to NE here. Look for the Patriots punt return unit to have a nice game on Sunday.
Next, who wins and why.
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