The NFL preseason continues as two playoff contenders from last season, the Dallas Cowboys and the Los Angeles Rams, face off in the vibrant City of Angels. This matchup marks the conclusion of the first full week of preseason action, creating excitement among fans. The Cowboys, who finished the 2023 season with a strong 12-5 record and claimed the NFC East crown, were unexpectedly ousted by the Packers in the wild card round, falling 48-32. Meanwhile, the Rams wrapped up their season at 10-7, only to be narrowly defeated by the Lions, losing 24-23 in their wild card game. Their last preseason encounter took place on August 17, 2019, when the Cowboys emerged victorious with a 14-10 scoreline.
Dallas Aiming for Another NFC East Title
Dallas enjoyed a successful run in the NFC East last season, but their early playoff exit has prompted significant changes within the organization. After defensive coordinator Dan Quinn accepted a head coaching position with the Commanders, Mike Zimmer stepped in as the new defensive coordinator. While Dallas made few offseason additions, they did bring in linebacker Eric Kendricks. The team faces challenges as several key players from last season’s roster have departed. Offensive linemen Tyler Biadasz and Tyron Smith are no longer with the team, and the skill positions have seen some shakeups with Michael Gallup retiring and Tony Pollard moving to Tennessee. On the defensive side, notable absences include Stephon Gilmore and Jayron Kearse in the secondary, along with Jonathan Hankins and Dante Fowler Jr. missing from the defensive line. Adding to the uncertainty, quarterback Dak Prescott is in the final year of his contract and star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb is holding out, placed on the reserve/did not report list.
With Prescott sidelined for the entirety of the preseason as he negotiates a new contract, the Cowboys will rely heavily on Cooper Rush and Trey Lance to lead the offense. Elliott, returning for his second stint in Dallas, is expected to take on the primary running back role after a season with the Patriots where he rushed for 642 yards and three touchdowns. Rookie Nathaniel Peat and Deuce Vaughn may also see opportunities in the backfield, especially with Royce Freeman dealing with a groin injury. In the absence of Lamb, Brandin Cooks and Jalen Tolbert will be the focal points in the receiving corps, while a host of other receivers will compete for roster spots.
Rams Looking to Reclaim Playoff Glory in 2024
The Rams managed to secure a wild card playoff spot last season but fell short against the Lions, losing by a single point. This year, they face the challenge of replacing key defensive contributors, particularly the legendary Aaron Donald, who has announced his retirement. Other notable departures include safeties John Johnson III and Jordan Fuller, as well as cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon. To strengthen their defense, Los Angeles has signed Darious Williams and Tre White to enhance their cornerback depth and brought in Kamren Curl to fill a safety position. Additionally, the team drafted edge rusher Jared Verse from Florida State to help bolster their pass rush.
Quarterback Matthew Stafford returns for another season after completing 326 passes for 3,965 yards, 24 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions last year. With Jimmy Garoppolo suspended for the first two games due to a PED violation, Stetson Bennett and Dresser Winn are expected to get significant playing time in this game. Running back Kyren Williams, who had a standout rookie year, will lead the rushing attack, while several other backs, including Ronnie Rivers and Boston Scott, will be looking to secure their spots on the depth chart. The passing offense will revolve around Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua, who both had impressive performances last season. Tight ends Colby Parkinson, Davis Allen, and Hunter Long will also aim to make an impact, especially with Tyler Higbee currently on the PUP list.
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Smart Bets for Dallas Cowboys vs. Los Angeles Rams
Both teams are grappling with defensive challenges as the preseason unfolds. Dallas has already suffered a significant blow with Sam Williams out for the season due to a knee injury, further straining their defensive depth. With Prescott not participating in the preseason, the Cowboys face an uphill battle, as Rush and Lance are unproven options. On the other hand, while the Rams have their own quarterback uncertainties, they possess a robust group of running backs. Given the Cowboys’ struggles against the run last season, particularly evident in their matchup against Buffalo, Los Angeles could exploit this weakness. The Rams, playing at home, are in a good position to not only cover the spread but also consider a win on the money line.
