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Week 11 of the NFL season wraps up with a compelling showdown between the Houston Texans and the Dallas Cowboys. Both teams are coming off tough stretches, looking to snap losing streaks and secure much-needed victories. As these two Texas franchises face off in Dallas, there’s more than just bragging rights at stake—this game could have significant implications for both teams’ playoff aspirations.
In this blog, we will break down key matchups, important injuries, and what each team needs to do to secure a win. From the return of star players to the pressure on struggling quarterbacks, we’ll cover everything you need to know about tonight’s primetime game.
The Houston Texans enter Monday Night Football on a two-game losing streak but still with a respectable 6-4 record. The Texans have experienced highs and lows throughout the season, and with a playoff spot in sight, they need to turn things around. One of the biggest obstacles they’ve faced recently is an inability to close out games. Despite leading at halftime in their past four matchups, they’ve lost three of them, highlighting a need for more consistency across all four quarters.
In addition to their on-field struggles, the Texans have been hit hard by injuries. Key players like linebacker Christian Harris and offensive lineman Kenyan Green have been sidelined for extended periods. Even with these setbacks, Houston has remained competitive, thanks to the emergence of rookie quarterback CJ Stroud and a strong defense.
Nico Collins (WR): One of the biggest boosts for the Texans is the return of wide receiver Nico Collins. Collins was off to a strong start before his injury, and his connection with Stroud was one of the most promising aspects of Houston’s offense. His return to the field could reignite the Texans’ passing game, giving them a reliable target to take pressure off other receivers like Tank Dell and John Metchie.
Will Anderson (OLB): Unfortunately, the Texans will be without rookie sensation Will Anderson, who has been dealing with an ankle injury. Anderson’s absence will be felt on the defensive line, as the Texans will have to rely on their depth to pressure Dallas’ quarterback.
Kamari Lasser (CB): The Texans will also be missing defensive back Kamari Lasser, who is still in concussion protocol. His absence further depletes the secondary, which has already been inconsistent this season.
To win this game, the Texans will need to lean on their defense and running game. Joe Mixon has been a steady presence in the backfield and could be a key factor against a Dallas defense that struggles against the run. Getting Mixon involved early will not only keep the Cowboys’ defense on its heels but also open up opportunities for Stroud to connect with Collins, Dell, and others in the passing game.
The Dallas Cowboys, on the other hand, are in a more precarious position. With a 3-6 record, the Cowboys are in desperate need of a win to stay relevant in the playoff race. They’ve lost four games in a row, and the absence of starting quarterback Dak Prescott due to injury has made things even worse. Cooper Rush, who has been filling in for Prescott, will need to step up if the Cowboys are to avoid further embarrassment, especially in front of their home crowd at AT&T Stadium.
Dak Prescott (QB): Prescott’s absence has been a significant blow to the Cowboys’ offense. While Rush has shown flashes of potential, he’s also struggled to find any consistency, particularly when it comes to developing chemistry with star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. For the Cowboys to have a chance in this game, Rush will need to play at a higher level than he has in recent weeks.
CeeDee Lamb (WR): Although Lamb has been one of the Cowboys’ most consistent offensive weapons this season, his status for Monday night was briefly in question due to a back injury. However, it appears that Lamb will play, which is a huge relief for Dallas as they need his playmaking ability to stay competitive in this game.
Jaylen Brooks (WR): Brooks, who has been a depth piece for the Cowboys, will not be available due to a coach’s decision. With the Cowboys already shorthanded at the receiver position, this adds further challenges to their offensive game plan.
For the Cowboys, a win is paramount, and they’ll need to find a way to capitalize on the Texans’ defensive vulnerabilities. One of the key matchups to watch is the battle between Dallas’ star pass rusher Micah Parsons and Houston’s offensive line. Parsons has been a force all season, and he’ll need to apply constant pressure on Rush to disrupt the Cowboys’ rhythm.
On offense, the Cowboys need to get the ball to Lamb early and often, allowing him to break free and make plays. With the Texans struggling to defend the pass at times, a big game from Lamb could provide the spark the Cowboys need to get back on track.
The return of Nico Collins is one of the most exciting developments for the Texans. Collins has been a favorite target of CJ Stroud, and his chemistry with the rookie quarterback could be crucial in this game. However, he’ll be up against a tough opponent in Trayvon Diggs, one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL. The battle between these two will be a key factor in determining how successful the Texans’ passing game will be.
Joe Mixon has been playing at a high level, and his ability to break tackles and gain yardage after contact could be a game-changer for Houston. The Cowboys’ defense will rely heavily on linebacker DeMarvion Overshown to shut down the run and prevent Mixon from getting into a rhythm. If Mixon can find success on the ground, it will take pressure off Stroud and give the Texans a balanced offensive attack.
Dallas’ star pass rusher Micah Parsons is one of the most disruptive players in the league, and he’ll face a tough challenge in Houston’s Laremy Tunsil. Tunsil is one of the best left tackles in football, but Parsons has the ability to change the game with a single play. How well Tunsil can protect Stroud will be pivotal in the outcome of the game.
While the Cowboys are the more talented team on paper, their recent struggles make it hard to pick them as the favorites. The Texans, despite their injuries, have shown resilience and have a more stable quarterback situation with CJ Stroud at the helm. The return of Nico Collins is a huge boost for the Texans, and his presence could provide the spark needed to help Houston take advantage of a Cowboys defense that has been inconsistent.
With Cooper Rush leading the offense and the Cowboys’ struggles in all phases of the game, the Texans are likely to come out on top in this one. The Cowboys will need a perfect game to snap their losing streak, and with the pressure mounting on them, it’s hard to see them pulling off the win.
Final Prediction: Houston Texans 24, Dallas Cowboys 17
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