9-1 Patriots take on the 6-4 Dallas Cowboys Week 12

What to look for this week:

Look for the Pats to try and improve their running game. Isaiah Wynn back into the starting lineup after the left tackle returned from IR following an eight-week absence due to a toe injury.  It is said though that Wynn’s return won’t make much of a difference against the Cowboys’ D. But we’ll never know until they try. Right?

The Patriots will also try to accomplish their passing game in the air. Although last week it was Julian Edleman that scored the only Patriot TD, the Cowboys D has NOT been really good at turnovers this season. So let’s pray that it’s Brady that throws the TD pass to Edleman as well as the other Patriot receivers.

On the other side of the field:

When the Cowboys use their running game, they succeed. Not only is Prescott a running QB, but their RB Ezekiel Elliott averages 4.3 yards per carry and has 833 yards on 194 attempts with seven touchdowns.

However, when the Cowboys use their passing game, this is where the Patriots have the edge. Making Prescott uncomfortable will be the key to the Patriot’s defensive success. Prescott has been outstanding in completing nearly 68 percent of his throws while leading the league with an average of 312 passing yards per game. But now he goes on the road and faces the best defense in the league and arguably the best secondary as well. This will be strength against strength and Patriots haven’t shown any vulnerabilities at home all season.

Special Teams

Nick Folk has solidified the Patriots kicking game over the last two weeks, connecting on all seven of his kicks including five field goals. Rookie Jake Bailey continues his outstanding season, adding six more punts downed inside the 20 on eight attempts in Philly in a game where field position was vital. Dallas is pretty solid in the kicking game as well as. Brett Maher is perfect on 32 PATs and four of his six misses on field goals have come from beyond 50 yards.   

Both sides have demonstrated solid coverage and have kept big plays to a minimum. The Patriots veteran-laden crew gets the edge, however, especially in the friendly confines of Gillette Stadium.

Week 11 Injury Report

N.E.P

Dallas

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