FRISCO, TEXAS — The Dallas Cowboys (5-8) visit the Carolina Panthers (3-10) in Carolina in a clash of two teams seeking late-season momentum. Both have shown promise but struggle with consistency.
Panthers’ Recent Struggles
Carolina is on a three-game skid since their bye week, narrowly losing to the Chiefs (30-27), Buccaneers (26-23 OT), and Eagles (22-16). Rookie QB Bryce Young has shown progress, delivering his best stretch of the season.
Cowboys Looking for a Bounce-Back
Dallas’ two-game winning streak ended with a 27-20 loss to Cincinnati. Cooper Rush continues under center, but Rico Dowdle has shined, rushing for 329 yards in his last three games and ranking second in the NFL in rushing yards since Week 9 (485). CeeDee Lamb, with 1,043 scrimmage yards, remains a top playmaker.
With 1.5 sacks at Carolina, Micah Parsons would tie Myles Garrett (17 games) for the second-most multi-sack games since Parsons was drafted in 2021. Parsons’ 3.5 career sacks against the Carolina Panthers are the most against any non-divisional opponent he has faced in his career. Since returning to the lineup in Week 10, Parsons has generated a league-high 18 pressures.
Head-to-Head History
Dallas leads the series 11-5, including a 33-10 win on Nov. 19, 2023. The Cowboys have won the last two meetings. Of the 16 games in this series, 11 have been decided by 10 points or less, reflecting a competitive rivalry.
What to Watch
- Rico Dowdle’s Momentum: Can Dallas’ emerging star continue his hot streak?
- Bryce Young’s Growth: Will the rookie QB build on recent success?
- Key Playmakers: CeeDee Lamb and Dowdle vs. Young and Carolina’s weapons.
The Cowboys aim to stay alive in the playoff race, while the Panthers look to play spoiler. Kickoff is at 12 noon Sunday.
