Falcons (4-4) at Cowboys (6-2)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
TV: Fox
Tipico Sportsbook line: Cowboys by 9
Falcons’ keys to victory: Atlanta has completely abandoned the run, and it’ll look to continue using RB Cordarelle Patterson out of the backfield in isolation against Dallas linebackers. Without WR Calvin Ridley, the passing offense is being manufactured through the running backs and tight ends, so rookie TE Kyle Pitts will need to continue using his athleticism in creating mismatches as QB Matt Ryan looks to spread the ball around. On defense, Atlanta has been consistent in allowing the opposition to run and pass at will and will need to focus on stopping one to have a chance.
Cowboys’ keys to victory: Coming off a sloppy loss, Dallas has admitted practices haven’t been sharp the last two weeks coming out of a bye. With a distinct talent advantage, maximizing the Cowboys’ ability is the key. LB Micah Parsons and DE Randy Gregory will need help, but they will have to be the catalysts in disrupting the timing of Atlanta’s offense. Dallas QB Dak Prescott got two garbagetime TDs against Denver but was inaccurate. He’ll need to recapture his magic quickly.
Matchup to watch: Falcons’ Pitts vs. Cowboys S Jayron Kearse. Pitts is now the top option for Ryan, and Kearse has been the Swiss Army knife defender for Dan Quinn’s defense. Kearse has given the defense more than expected when signed as a free agent, but it will be a tough task to keep Pitts under wraps.
Who wins? The Cowboys needed the “watermelon kick” to take down Atlanta last year but should be in better condition a year later.
Cowboys 32, Falcons 23