The final time the Cowboys had been on the sphere, they nonetheless had a mathematical shot on the playoffs. But, as has been the case all yr, issues had been very out of their management. That run got here to an finish Saturday night time, when the Eagles beat the Commanders to not solely clinch the NFC East however get rid of the Cowboys.
That means after they take the sphere to face the Chargers, all they’ve left to play for is love of the sport. Sometimes that ends in spirited wins, as this workforce demonstrated final yr towards the Buccaneers, and typically it doesn’t. Our writers have various levels of confidence within the former being the case.
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When Los Angeles has the ball
Stop the run (or at the very least strive)
The Chargers have a franchise quarterback in Justin Herbert, however head coach Jim Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Greg Roman like to run the ball. They’ve had some up’s and down’s in that division, whether or not or not it’s accidents at operating again or the offensive line, however they’ve began to rise once more with the latest return of rookie rusher Omarion Hampton.
Against a Dallas protection that’s appeared allergic to stopping the run currently, you’ll be able to ensure that Harbaugh will look to determine the run early. Matt Eberflus will name this recreation from the sales space, somewhat than the sideline, so maybe that can change his perspective in terms of fixing these points that plague his protection.
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When Dallas has the ball
Start quick
Brian Schottenheimer has acquired loads of reward for his offense’s efficiency all season lengthy, and rightfully so, however one space he’s nonetheless missing is the way in which this offense begins. Too typically they arrive up brief on their opening drive, and it often takes a while earlier than issues actually begin to click on.
Only seven groups have performed fewer downs whereas trailing this yr than the Chargers. When they get a lead, they usually don’t give it away. If the Cowboys wish to win this one, they must strike first and maintain placing.
Now onto the predictions out of your BTB writers…
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Tom Ryle (6-7-1):
Just to strive slightly reverse jinx…
Chargers 27, Cowboys 23
Mike Poland (7-6-1):
The Chargers offensive line is the worst within the league. Last in Pass Block Win Rate, thirty first in Run Block Win Rate, and have given up the second-most sacks this yr (probably the most being Las Vegas the place the Dallas line of defense churned out 4 sacks).
Sure, Justin Herbert is the important thing right here, however so long as the move rush retains up the stress then this one tilts to Dallas. Being the pure optimist of the group I’m not backing a loss even when the season for Dallas is completed.
Let’s go Cowboys 27, Chargers 24
Matt Holleran (6-7-1):
The Cowboys could also be mathematically eradicated earlier than this recreation kicks off, however I’ve a powerful feeling they’ll put collectively a great efficiency towards the Chargers this weekend. Los Angeles has actually struggled to guard the quarterback, and I feel Dallas’ protection will take benefit. In a low-scoring battle, Dallas comes out with a win.
Give me the Cowboys, 20-17.
Brian Martin (4-9-1):
The Chargers are the one workforce that has one thing to play for, no matter what the Cowboys say about wanting to complete the season robust. I feel LAC will finally win this recreation, however solely by a small margin.
Score prediction: Cowboys 23, Chargers 27
David Howman (6-7-1):
It could be such a traditional Cowboys transfer to return out and win this recreation, however I don’t see it taking place. The Chargers are too good and have an excessive amount of to combat for nonetheless.
Chargers win 34-24