By Alex Al-Kazzaz
Dallas and Cincinnati are both off to an 0-1 start. A loss to Tampa Bay in a frustrating fashion does Dallas no good, especially since they lost Dak Prescott. Cincinatti, on the other hand, suffered a surprising loss at home to Pittsburgh and they're angry. And Dallas being in bad shape as they are on offense is the perfect team for the Bengals to take that anger and frustration out on. No doubt, Cincinatti is coming to Dallas with destruction on their mind.
Cooper Rush will start at QB for Dallas. As mentioned numerous times, the Cowboys have problems with the offensive line, the WR corps is very thin, and the play-calling is far from trustworthy. Therefore, it seems as though Rush has been thrown into the wolves.
Last week, Joe Burrow was sacked seven times. In addition, he threw four interceptions and even lost a fumble. Ja'Marr Chase had ten catches for 129 yards and a touchdown. He'll be squaring off against Trevon Diggs who allowed Tampa receiver Mike Evans to score a touchdown in week 1. The Dallas secondary gave up a considerable amount of receiving yards. Tee Higgins suffered a concussion against Pittsburgh but he could be active this week. Regardless, Burrow has weapons he could rely on. But perhaps, Cincinnati's offensive line issues are still present. If that's the case, the Dallas defensive line needs to take advantage.
Dallas' running defense is a cause for concern as they allowed Leonard Fournette to rush for over 120 yards. Cincinnati's rushing offense registered 133 yards on the ground against Pittsburgh. Speaking of the running game, Dallas may have to heavily rely on it this week. Cincinnati's rushing defense allowed 75 yards on the ground last week. Dallas' passing game is the biggest worry coming into this game and Cincinnati's defense is looking forward to that.
Dallas' keys to victory:
Find a way to run the ball effectively. And if the running game works, DO NOT ABANDON IT.
Sack Burrow at least six times!
FORCE TURNOVERS
SCORE TOUCHDOWNS
NO PENALTIES
Cincinnati's keys to victory:
Take advantage of Dallas' offensive line and passing game woes.
Get to the quarterback!
Wear out the Dallas defense
AVOID TURNOVERS
Protect BURROW
Final score prediction: Cincinnati wins 27-10