Dallas Cowboys

Dallas Cowboys vs New York Giants: The X's & O's

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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X’s & O’s will provide analysis for the weeks upcoming game, where I will look directly into the match-up and what the Dallas Cowboys can do to grab a victory.

Nov 27, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (9) on the bench during the fourth quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

There are many unknown variables going into the Dallas Cowboys opening weekend, which makes the game against the New York Giants very intriguing. Especially considering the Giants new coaching staff.

Who Sits

The final 46 suiting for the game on Sunday is currently up in the air, while this list may not be 100% accurate, it gives an idea of how the game day roster could look.

There are several names where there is room for debate. The Cowboys kept both full backs (Rod and Keith Smith) on the roster, however both have the flexibility to play special teams, while Rod provides depth at running back. While Ronald Leary will most likely be inactive all year unless he is expected to start.

Swanson could be active over one of the full backs if there are plans for him in the return game, however it’s likely wide receiver Lucky Whitehead will handle all of those duties. Also, one could reasonably substitute Damien Wilson on this list for Mark Nzeocha.

Aug 19, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) dives for a touchdown in the third quarter against the Miami Dolphins at AT&T Stadium. Dallas won 41-14. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

Cowboys Offense vs Giants Defense

With rookie Dak Prescott starting at quarterback, there is a lot of unknown with the Cowboys offense. offensive coordinator Scott Linehan will have less of the playbook available to him with the rookie calling the offense.

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I expect the pocket to move often, allowing Dak to have easier reads-while keeping defensive ends Jason Pierre-Paul and Olivier Vernon out of rhythm.

Expect the Cowboys to depend on the offensive line and running game to offset the Giants pass rush, while setting up play action. Ezekiel Elliott and Alfred Morris could combine for over 30 carries on Sunday.

The Cowboys will be able to exploit mismatches with Jason Witten and Cole Beasley during various portions of the game.

Despite the money the Giants spent on their defense this offseason, it will be extremely difficult for them to account for all the weapons the Cowboys are able to deploy.

If Dak is able to go turnover free, the team still has the ability to put up points and win this football game.

Aug 25, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Paul Richardson (10) catches a touchdown pass over Dallas Cowboys cornerback Morris Claiborne (24) during the second quarter in a preseason game at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports

Cowboys Defense vs Giants Offense

The Giants’ offensive attack will immediately challenge the Cowboys secondary. Along with Odell Beckham, the Giants have the returning Victor Cruz, rookie Sterling Sheppard, tight end Larry Donnell, and running back Shane Vereen as quality receiving threats. Morris Claiborne, Brandon Carr, and the returning Orlando Scandrick will have play on their toes.

To account for the Giants passing game, Defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli will have to figure out a way to create pressure on Eli Manning, who is prone to inconsistent play if he is under prolonged distress in the pocket. It will be up to a thin defensive line and some well timed blitzes to break Eli’s rhythm and speed up his internal clock.

If Tyrone Crawford puts together a disruptive performance and gets help from Benson Mayowa, Jack Crawford, and Terrell McClain this defense will definitely be able to compete. The Giants offensive line is nowhere near their biggest strength, making the line vs line battle a must need victory for the Cowboys.

The play of Byron Jones at free safety could also be pivotal, the Giants are likely to take shots down the field and his ability to cover the center of the field will be key in getting the New York offense off the field.

Sep 13, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys kicker Dan Bailey (5) celebrates with punter Chris Jones (6) after kicking the game winning extra point against theNew York Giants at AT&T Stadium. The Cowboys won 27-26. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

Special Teams Battle

The Dallas Cowboys have one of the best NFL Kickers of all time in Dan Bailey, if it comes down to a constant of field goals he has a major advantage over Josh Brown. Lucky Whitehead’s return abilities will be important while Romo is on the shelf, he could help win the field position game and make Prescott’s job that much easier.

If the Cowboys play sound special teams football they will put themselves in a good position. However, former Cowboy Dwayne Harris will definitely be a challenge to contain. He has knack for making big plays on various special teams groups.

Final Thoughts

For the Cowboys to start the season 1-0 without Tony Romo several things will need to happen.

Dez Bryant, Jason Witten, Sean Lee, and Tyrone Crawford will have to play extremely well. Cornerbacks Janoris Jenkins and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie should not be able to shut down Dez all game long. When he gets his opportunities, Dak will need him to make plays.

Dak will have to be on time with the ball and not force throws that aren’t there. Both Cromartie and Jenkins are aggressive corners who will jump routes if a quarterback gets lazy with his eyes. Jenkins especially can be feast or famine at corner with his aggressive plays on the ball.

Tyrone Smith, La’el Collins, Travis Frederick, Zack Martin, and Doug Free are going to have to dominate the line of scrimmage, allowing the Cowboys to have an overwhelming time of possession advantage. If they create holes for the running backs, then the Cowboys will be able to dictate to the Giants defense and not the other way around.

Keep a close eye on Doug Free and how he handles the pass rush during this game, if he is able to play a quality game and keep Prescott upright it will mean wonders for the offense.

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