The Giants are heading to Dallas to take on the Cowboys in a game that is very important for the race in the NFC East.
The Cowboys currently hold a one game lead over the Giants and control their own destiny in the division. The two teams will meet once again in Week 17, so this game will be important for setting the stage for the end of the year meeting.
New York Giants
After starting the season 6-2, the Giants have been on a major decline, losing their last four games. Their best game during this slide actually came last week against the undefeated Packers, who held on to beat the Giants 38-35.
The Giants have had different problems during this streak, with the offense struggling in the first two losses, and the defense falling apart in the last two. They have seen themselves fall from first place in the NFC East, and a loss this week could end their playoff hopes altogether.
A positive factor in favor of the Giants is that they scored 35 points last week against the Packers, who are once again Super Bowl favorites. The difference is that the Packers have the 31st overall defense, while the Cowboys are ranked tenth. It also doesn’t help that the Giants are last in the league in rushing yards, with less than 84 yards per game.
Eli Manning will be relied on to lead the Giants to victory, and will look to Victor Cruz as his main target. Cruz already has surpassed the 1,000 receiving yard mark on the year, and has 7 touchdowns. His play will be key to the success of the Giants.
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys were on a four game winning streak, which should have been five, until a gaffe by Jason Garrett led to an overtime loss against the Cardinals. Garrett called timeout and iced his own kicker, who made the kick that was called off, and went on to miss the one that counted. A win would have given the ‘Boys a two game lead in the division, and a win tonight would have nearly assured them a spot in the playoffs.
Dallas has the clear advantage in the run game, with rookie DeMarco Murray being their weapon. Since taking over the starting role in Week 8 against the Rams, Murray has rushed for 799 yards, including 253 in the game against the Rams. Last week was the first time he was held under 73 yards in the seven games he has been the starter, and he should be able to have a solid game against the Giants’ 23rd ranked rush defense.
Cowboys-Giants Prediction
Based simply on last week’s performance, it seems that the Giants are the favorites coming into this game. However, it is tough to ignore the fact that the Cowboys recently had a four game win streak.
The Giants may have some momentum, but the Cowboys are simply the better team this week.
Prediction: Cowboys 27 | Giants 21
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New York Giants at Dallas Cowboys
- Giants-Cowboys Date: Sunday, December 11 at 8:20 PM on NBC
- Giants-Cowboys Announcers: Al Michaels and Cris Collinsworth
- Giants-Cowboys Point Spread: Cowboys -3
- Giants-Cowboys Over-Under Odds: 49
About Steve Kubitza
The Cowboys didn't perform all that well against Miami on Thanksgiving, and got trucked by Jason Garrett TO gaffe and an Arizona rally in OT last week. All are marks against the lack of discipline that defined Dallas over the years. Plus, Miles Austin remains questionable, as does DeMarcus Ware, both of whom may be non-factors. Additionally, Demarco Murray doesn't necessarily give me the fits, especially with his recent performances (he put up a STINKER in Arizona). Had it not been for a miracle OT drive against the Niners in San Fran, Cowboys and G-Men would be even at 6-6. I think the Giants have the momentum in this one, with or without Osi.
The Giants always collapse the last half of the season just as the San Diego Chargers get hot in December.
I like the Cowboys in this one especially with Ahmad bradshaw out for violating his curfew. Come on dude, get it together.