OnOff
FRISCO, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys and the Chicago Bears may have the same 6-6 record but the two teams have been moving in opposite directions. The Cowboys have lost the past two games and the Bears have won their previous two. Dallas’ offense currently ranks first in the NFL in total yards-per-game and they will face a Chicago defense that ranks seventh in the league in allowing only 319.7 yards-per-contest.
Against the Bills in week thirteen, the Cowboys’ offense went eight-straight drives without a score. On Thursday at Soldier Field, the Cowboys have to minimize penalties, move the ball, and get points on the scoreboard.
The Bears outside linebackers are great pass rushers, including four-time pro bowl player Khalil Mack.
I spoke with Jason Garrett on Mack’s explosiveness and he told me, “ He is a rare guy: Rare athlete, great quickness, acceleration, explosiveness, and strength, and balance, and body control. He’s got a knack for getting away from guys who are trying to protect against him. He’s one of those guys who get a lot of attention every week. Everybody knows who number 52 is and he continues to show up. Heck of a football player. He plays with a relentless spirit. Good run defender, around the ball there and certainly effecting the quarterback down after down. “
Mack is the cornerstone of Chicago’s defense and the Cowboys have to know where he is at all times with his agility around the edge. He has 6.5 sacks and is tied for the NFL lead with five forced fumbles.
Left guard Connor Williams tore his ACL and Xavier Su’a-Filo will fill his place in the lineup. The offensive line has to protect well up front and give Dak enough time to go through progressions on Thursday.
“ You have to build an offensive plan that allows you time to execute the passes you want, “ Sanjay Lal told me. He added, “ That involves many different things but it is taking care of 52 (Mack) and 94 (Floyd) for sure.”
The Cowboys worked out three kickers on Sunday after Brett Maher missed two kicks against the Bills, but it appears the team will be sticking with Maher for the time being. The team will likely be without Antwaun Woods (knee) and Leighton Vander Esch (neck) against Chicago. With that being said, Christian Covington will start at nose tackle for Woods and Sean Lee will play weak side linebacker For LVE with Joe Thomas and Justin March-Lillard able to play snaps at SAM.
