(Photo Credit: Michael Lark/Dallas Sports Fanatic)
The Dallas Cowboys will face the San Francisco 49ers for the first time since week three of last season. Flashing back to last year, the Cowboys recovered from a 14-0 deficit to defeat the 49ers behind stud performances from the rookie duo of Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott. The performance foreshadowed an unexpected run of success that culminated in a NFC-best 13-3 record. On Sunday, the Cowboys will again look to jumpstart their season in Santa Clara, and here’s why they will:
Return to Health:
The Cowboys will be receiving a big boost on defense, as linebacker Sean Lee returns from a 2-game hiatus. His presence will help immensely, as the team has struggled on defense in his absence. Lee brings a high level of play to the field, and his football IQ can help prevent the team from giving up big plays. Lee’s health will be a big storyline to follow in this matchup. Elsewhere, the team looks nearly at full health across the board, which will provide a boost in the depth department. Here’s the rest of the injury report, provided by David Helman of DallasCowboys.com.
Chido is out. Justin Durant has been downgraded to questionable. Everyone else looks good to go for Sunday. pic.twitter.com/hsgODjuyWi
— David Helman (@HelmanDC) October 20, 2017
Zeke Eats:
The Cowboys were on a bye last week, but the news cycle from “The Star” in Frisco was working overtime during the off-week. From a veteran being released (Nolan Carroll) to a veteran retiring (Stephen Paea), there were already plenty of headlines. However, the news was far from over. Last week, the NFL reinstated running back Ezekiel Elliott’s six-game suspension, which barred the running back from appearing at the team’s facility. However, the running back was granted another temporary restraining order (TRO), which allows the running back to play while his case waits to be heard. In the midst of a back and forth with the league, Elliott will suit up against the 49ers. What happens after the game is anyone’s guess, so look for the team to feed Zeke. Fresh off the bye of turmoil, Zeke will be motivated to put up big numbers on the field.
Dallas Cowboys Comeback:
Although the 2-3 start is less than ideal, the Dallas Cowboys are far from finished in the playoff race. The NFC East, and the entire NFC, is still up for grabs. With major injuries around the league, the Cowboys have a chance to put some wins together and get back in the thick of the NFC race. A win against San Francisco would be a great start. Look for the team to improve on defense with the return of Sean Lee. Also, look for a 2017 bust-out game from Ezekiel Elliott. The team has an opportunity to start the season fresh following the bye week, and they will be ready to make their push to re-claim the top spot in the division.
Prediction: Dallas Cowboys 30; San Fransisco 49ers 20
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