Carolina Panthers: How They Can Defeat The Dallas Cowboys
The Carolina Panthers are one of two undefeated teams as they travel to Dallas, Texas for Thanksgiving and the game against the Cowboys. This is a huge game for the Panthers as they are given the center stage to play against one of the most popular teams in sports. With all the eyes watching it’s important for Cam Newton and the crew to perform at a high level and push their record to 11-0. They are more than capable of winning this game and have to do so in some key ways.
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Statistically speaking, the Panthers should be the favorite coming into this game. The ESPN Matchup Predictor gives them an edge with a 55 percent chance to win this game compared to 44.7 percent for the Cowboys. The Panthers lead in nearly every category, points, total yards and yards allowed are all areas in which Carolina holds the higher ground. However, games are not played on paper but on the field.
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The Panthers have flexed their true strength by controlling the play clock with extended drives that have turned into more touchdowns than naught. Leaning on the backs of Jonathan Stewart, and Mike Tolbert, the rushing committee and strong offensive line continues to impress as they average more than 140 yards per outing. Newton is also adding to these totals, but the team should lean away from adding pressure to his legs along with his arm.
The Panthers’ defense should also look to apply pressure to the returning Tony Romo. Right now he’s listed as questionable on the official injury report but the expectations are the he could make his return for this important game. The Panthers need to test his timing and keep him uncomfortable from the very start. This defensive unit has continued to force takeaways all season and catching a returning quarterback is a time as good as any to keep that trend going.
Newton will have to continue building on the last few games in which he’s performed at a level that’s left many people surprised. His QB Rating has been above 100 for the last three games and is above 90 for the year; the first time in Newton’s young career. As MVP conversations begin to include his name, this is a game in which Newton needs to perform well against the Cowboys’ tenth ranked pass defense.
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The Carolina Panthers have pulled out some tough games this year to stay an undefeated force on the field. This Thanksgiving they are playing against a rejuvenated Dallas team that is looking to build on its third win of the season with their leader back in the fold. A win for Carolina on Thursday will be an important move for the unit to gain the respect that still seems to be out of reach.