Dallas Cowboys vs. New York Giants: Game Preview

Who has the better defense?

Aug 29, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive end Randy Gregory (94) in action against Minnesota Vikings guard David Yankey (66) at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Neither team had a defense in 2014 which made fans be in awe of a defense that put fear into their opponent, but this is a different season, and as for the Cowboys, they’ve tried to rebuild parts of their defense this offseason.

Will it work, though?

I love the fact the Cowboys will have second-year defensive Demarcus Lawrence for the start of the season, and add him with rookie defensive end Randy Gregory and Jeremy Mincey also at right defensive end, and those three will help set the tempo with hopefully their edge rush in Week 1.

At weakside linebacker, Sean Lee returns to the team after missing last season with the torn ACL, and maybe an overlooked player in Week 1 is Anthony Hitchens at middle linebacker, but more on him later.

With Orlando Scandrick out for the season with an ACL and MCL tear, the most recent depth chart on DallasCowboys.com has the starting defensive backfield being Brandon Carr and Morris Claiborne at the two cornerback spots, with J.J. Wilcox as the free safety and Barry Church at strong safety. Also expect Byron Jones and Tyler Patmon to see playing time as well.

Players on the Giants who make their defense pop are Cullen Jenkins at left defensive end and middle linebacker Jon Beason. Also Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Prince Amukamara at cornerback will be vital spots to watch in this game as they have the assignment to be the lead in stopping Dez Bryant from catching the football. (Good luck with that.)

Just from a look at the rosters, and maybe I’m being biased (though I don’t believe I am), the edge in defensive play goes to the Cowboys in this first week of the season.

Next: Watch these players Sunday night