Divisional NFL Predictions: Dallas Cowboys at Green Bay Packers
By Erik Lambert
Dec 15, 2013; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys tight end Jason Witten (82) runs after a reception against Green Bay Packers cornerback Tramon Williams (38) and safety Morgan Burnett (42) at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
The Green Bay Packers hope to hold serve at home in the divisional round against the Dallas Cowboys. What is the NFL predictions outlook?
Subplots:
Aaron Rodgers needs stout protection against relentless Dallas rush
One thing that everybody knows about Aaron Rodgers is he’s not afraid to take off running if there’s an opening. The problem with this game is he may not have that luxury as he’s nursing a tear in his calf that was likely aggravated in the season finale two weeks ago. This means he will need a big game from his offensive line against an inspired Dallas pass rush that sacked Matthew Stafford three times and pressured him constantly a week ago.
Key Matchups:
DeMarco Murray vs. Packers front seven
One of the bigger weakness on the Packers defense has been their ability to stop the run. Defensive coordinator Dom Capers has been able to mask it lately but the team still ranks 19th in the league, allowing 119 yards per game. They now have to face a big, powerful offensive line in the Cowboys and rushing champion DeMarco Murray. Dallas is averaging 147 yards on the ground for the season and don’t fear running against anybody. Green Bay better be up to the task.
Brandon Carr vs. Jordy Nelson
One thing about Rodgers is that whenever he needs a big play on third down or down the field, Jordy Nelson is who he’s going to. When teams beat the Green Bay Packers, it’s because they can control how well Nelson does. That won’t be easy for the Dallas Cowboys secondary, which isn’t very strong. Brandon Carr is their bigger corner and will be tasked with covering Nelson often. He needs to have a good game, of which there are few in 2014.
Pick: DAL 27, GB 24
Indeed, the upset is the pick here. Dallas is 8-0 on the road but more importantly they’re healthy where it counts, which is up front on that offensive line and it that backfield. Rodgers will have his moments but his lack of mobility will become a factor at some point. The Cowboys will exploit that just enough to steal a win at Lambeau.