Both teams enter Week 12 looking to bounce back from losses last week. The 3-7 Dallas Cowboys (3rd in NFC East) fell 34-10 to the 7-4 Houston Texans, struggling offensively as QB Cooper Rush stepped in for the injured Dak Prescott. Rush threw for 354 yards with one touchdown but was plagued by an interception and limited run support.
The 7-4 Washington Commanders (2nd in NFC East, behind the 8-2 Philadelphia Eagles) narrowly lost 28-27 to the 8-2 Pittsburgh Steelers in a game that highlighted their offensive potential. Rookie QB Jayden Daniels passed for 202 yards, while Austin Ekeler scored twice on the ground, keeping the Commanders competitive throughout.
This NFC East clash pits two teams trending in different directions. Washington is firmly in the playoff hunt, sitting second in the division, while Dallas finds itself trying to regain footing after a challenging season. Washington’s well-balanced offense and opportunistic defense will test a Dallas team hindered by injuries on both sides of the ball.
Offensive Strengths
Dallas Cowboys
Despite Prescott’s absence, the Cowboys’ passing game showed flashes, with Rush connecting on 32 completions for over 350 passing yards. WR CeeDee Lamb remains the team’s most reliable weapon, adding 93 yards on nine receptions last week. Speedster KaVontae Turpin added a 64-yard touchdown reception, showcasing big-play ability. Dallas will need more production from its running game, led by Rico Dowdle, who was held under 30 rushing yards last week against the Texans.
Washington Commanders
The Commanders boast a balanced attack led by Daniels, who has demonstrated poise despite being a rookie. Terry McLaurin is the centerpiece of the passing game, averaging 15 yards per reception this season, including 113 yards last week. Washington’s ground game, led by Austin Ekeler with 333 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns, has been a consistent source of scoring and ball control.
Defensive Outlook
Dallas Cowboys
Dallas has struggled in defense this season, ranking 27th in total defense in 2024. Despite this, they have playmakers in linebackers Micah Parsons and Eric Kendricks, who lead the team in tackles. Injuries to key players like CB Jourdan Lewis and a patchwork secondary could leave them vulnerable to Washington’s passing attack.
Washington Commanders
Washington’s defense, anchored by linebacker Bobby Wagner and pass rushers Dante Fowler Jr. and Frankie Luvu, is strong against the run and capable of pressuring opposing quarterbacks. They will soon have Pro Bowler Marshon Lattimore join the defense and bolster their secondary. They’ll look to exploit Dallas’ reliance on the passing game, particularly if the Cowboys’ rushing woes continue.
Conclusion and Prediction
The Commanders enter this matchup as the more complete team, with a balanced offense and a sturdy defense. Dallas will need a near-flawless performance from Cooper Rush and an improved running game to pull off the upset. Washington’s superior balance and Dallas’ injury struggles tilt this one in favor of the home team.
JY Official Prediction: Washington 27, Dallas 17
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