NFL · 1 year ago

How the Cowboys Can Beat the Dolphins: 5 Keys to Victory in Week 16

Zack Cook

Host · Writer

Tony Pollard is Used Frequently
Tony Pollard hasn't been as explosive as many would have liked since taking the reigns of the Cowboys backfield in 2023. In saying that, we know what he's capable of, and he can handle a big workload. The Cowboys can beat teams in the trenches, and their offensive line is a big reason they're able to find success. Pollard needs to see early touches and get the run game going, which is something that Dallas has failed to do of late. Making sure they don't fall behind by multiple scores early is essential.
Dak Prescott Manages the Game
Heading into Week 15 against the Buffalo Bills, Dak Prescott was right in the conversation to win MVP. After a difficult showing in Buffalo, Prescott will be looking to bounce back in a big game on the road in Miami. For Prescott to find success, the Cowboys need to trust their run game and have a much better script for their opening drive. When Prescott manages the game well and doesn't have to force plays, the Cowboys win more often than not.
Stephon Gilmore and DaRon Bland Limit Explosive Plays
It's nearly impossible to completely limit Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, but the Cowboys' secondary has to at least keep the explosive plays to a minimum. Stephon Gilmore and DaRon Bland need to be in lockdown mode in this matchup. It was the run defense that got Dallas in trouble last week, but Miami presents multiple challenges on offense, meaning the Cowboys' defense has to be ready in all facets.
Micah Parsons Gets Pressure
It's no secret the impact that Micah Parsons can have on a football game when he's playing to his ability. It's been a somewhat troubling stretch for him of late, but we expect him to show up here on the big stage in Week 16. When Tua Tagovailoa is forced to make uncomfortable decisions, he's prone to turnovers, and Parsons can make him do just that in this matchup against a bruised and battered Miami offensive line.
CeeDee Lamb Gets Involved Early and Often
After a strong October, CeeDee Lamb has been relatively inconsistent for the Cowboys in November and December. Teams have adjusted to the Cowboys' passing options and often taken away Lamb from having a big game. Although you don't want Prescott forcing Lamb the ball, the Cowboys offense is much more effective when Lamb is seeing double-digit targets and getting involved on each drive. Lamb needs to be a focal point for this offense on Sunday, and the Cowboys have to find ways to get him the ball.
Tony Pollard is Used Frequently
Tony Pollard hasn't been as explosive as many would have liked since taking the reigns of the Cowboys backfield in 2023. In saying that, we know what he's capable of, and he can handle a big workload. The Cowboys can beat teams in the trenches, and their offensive line is a big reason they're able to find success. Pollard needs to see early touches and get the run game going, which is something that Dallas has failed to do of late. Making sure they don't fall behind by multiple scores early is essential.
Dak Prescott Manages the Game
Heading into Week 15 against the Buffalo Bills, Dak Prescott was right in the conversation to win MVP. After a difficult showing in Buffalo, Prescott will be looking to bounce back in a big game on the road in Miami. For Prescott to find success, the Cowboys need to trust their run game and have a much better script for their opening drive. When Prescott manages the game well and doesn't have to force plays, the Cowboys win more often than not.

How the Cowboys Can Beat the Dolphins: 5 Keys to Victory in Week 16

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