Sunday’s game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Dallas Cowboys holds significant importance for both teams as they fight to keep their playoff hopes alive. //
Realistically, the playoffs are unlikely to happen for the Cowboys who, at best, have a one per cent chance of making it to the promised land – a loss on Sunday will kill off even that little ember of hope.
Here's a closer look at what to expect when the Buccaneers visit the Cowboys.
Current standings and stakes
The Dallas Cowboys (6-8) find themselves third in the NFC East, trailing both the Philadelphia Eagles and the New York Giants. They need a win to stay in contention for a playoff berth, with absolutely zero room left for error.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-6) lead the NFC South but are under pressure from the Atlanta Falcons. A win would strengthen their hold on the division and edge them closer to a postseason appearance.
Key players to watch
Dallas Cowboys
- Dak Prescott (QB): While Prescott has had an up-and-down season, his ability to deliver in crunch situations will be vital for Dallas’ playoff hopes.
- CeeDee Lamb (WR): Lamb continues to shine as the Cowboys' top receiver, with 94 receipts for 1089 receiving yards. His big-play ability will be crucial in breaking through Tampa Bay’s secondary.
- Micah Parsons (LB): Parsons remains a defensive juggernaut with his ability to disrupt both the pass and the run. He’ll play a key role in putting pressure on Baker Mayfield.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Baker Mayfield (QB): Mayfield has been a stabilizing force for Tampa Bay, with 3,617 passing yards and a solid touchdown-to-interception ratio. His performance will dictate the Buccaneers' offensive success.
- Mike Evans (WR): Veteran Mike Evans is now into his 11th season. Traditionally one of the league’s premier deep threats, he is struggling a bit this season with just 749 receiving. Despite this he’ll be a key matchup for Dallas’ secondary.
- Lavonte David (LB): David is the heart of Tampa Bay’s defence and will need to lead the charge in containing Dallas’ balanced offensive attack.
Offence vs. defence matchups
Cowboys’ offence vs. Buccaneers’ Defence: Dallas has struggled with consistency on offence this season, averaging just 21.28 points per game. Tampa Bay’s defence, which ranks in the top half of the league, will aim to capitalize on any mistakes.
Buccaneers’ offense vs. Cowboys’ defence: Tampa Bay’s passing game, led by Mayfield and Evans, faces a stiff challenge against Dallas’ opportunistic defence, which thrives on creating turnovers.
Key trends and insights
Dallas is 1-6 at home this season and have struggled to find rhythm offensively.
Tampa Bay has a 5-2 road record and has leaned heavily on its passing game to secure victories.
The Buccaneers have won all of their last four games, while the Cowboys have been the model of inconsistency winning three and losing three from their last six.
Prediction and final thoughts
This game features two teams with contrasting strengths: Tampa Bay’s steady passing game against Dallas’ dynamic defence.
While the Cowboys have home-field advantage, their inconsistency on both sides of the ball makes this a tough matchup.
Tampa Bay’s ability to generate offence through Mayfield and Evans should give them the edge in a close contest.
Predicted Score: Buccaneers 27, Cowboys 21.
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