Classic adversaries will clash on Sunday Night Football. The Dallas Cowboys (3-3; 2-3-1 ATS) face the San Francisco 49ers (3-4; 3-4-0 ATS) at 8:20 p.m. EST in Levi’s Stadium. This matchup marks another chapter in their storied rivalry, with the 49ers winning the last three encounters since 2020. The result of this game could play a significant role in shaping playoff positioning. Which team will rise to the occasion in front of a national audience?
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Dallas Cowboys: Time to Regroup
Following a heavy 47-9 loss, the Cowboys had a timely bye week to regroup. The defeat against the Lions highlighted numerous issues, particularly on defense, which ranks 31st in scoring defense. They are yielding an average of 28.0 points per game and have struggled when opponents score over 28 points, currently sitting at 0-3 in such situations. With 5.7 yards allowed per snap (24th) and 356.5 yards per game (25th), Dallas has faced challenges, especially against the pass, giving up 7.9 yards per attempt (27th). They have recorded only 14 sacks (21st) and have five takeaways (t-26th). However, a silver lining is their strong performance on the road, where they have not allowed more than 17 points yet, boasting a 3-0 record away from home. Is this a testament to their travel capabilities or simply a reflection of their opponents?
On the offensive side, the Cowboys have not been as productive after an impressive start, where they scored 33 points in their opening game. They have only surpassed 20 points once since, that being a comeback effort against the Giants where they were down 28-6 heading into the fourth quarter. They average 336.5 yards and 21.0 points per game and rank last in rushing stats. Additionally, they have recorded 11 turnovers, placing them near the bottom of the league. Quarterback Dak Prescott ranks fourth in passing yards per game, largely due to having the second-most attempts, though he sits at 18th in yards per attempt. Prescott has faced 16 sacks thus far, indicating a heavy reliance on the passing game. Will this strategy serve them well in Santa Clara?
Key Injuries – Micah Parsons (out); Eric Kendricks (questionable)
San Francisco 49ers: Battling Adversity
The 49ers started the season as favorites to capture the NFC title, yet after last week’s defeat in a Super Bowl rematch, they find themselves below .500 as they approach the midway mark of the season. Injuries have become a growing concern. Regardless of who suits up, the 49ers must focus on winning. Their offense ranks third in yards per game (404.3) and ninth in scoring (25.7 ppg), trying to carry the team forward. Despite missing All-Pro RB Christian McCaffrey all season, they excel in several key categories, including yards per play (3rd), yards per rush (8th), and yards per pass attempt (4th). However, ball security remains an issue, as quarterback Brock Purdy has thrown seven interceptions, just one shy of the league’s highest total. The 49ers also match Dallas with 11 turnovers, a stark contrast to last season’s total of 18 in 17 games. Can San Francisco regain control and secure a much-needed victory?
Defensively, the 49ers have struggled to meet expectations. They allow 22.6 points and 318.0 yards per game, ranking 17th in yards per play (5.3) and 13th in both yards per carry (4.4) and yards per pass attempt (6.9). With 18 sacks, they sit at 14th in the league. However, they have benefited from turnovers, ranking third in the league with 13 forced turnovers, which often disrupt opponents’ drives. Nonetheless, five of their last six opponents have scored at least 23 points against them. Will they be able to put together a strong performance before heading into their bye week?
Key Injuries – Jordan Mason (questionable); Deebo Samuel Sr. (questionable); George Kittle (questionable); Jauan Jennings (questionable); Nick Bosa (questionable); Dre Greenlaw (out)
Best Bets for Dallas Cowboys vs. San Francisco 49ers
Dallas has struggled to force turnovers, which is vital to contain the 49ers. A San Francisco offense averaging 6.4 yards per play (3rd) is well-matched against a Dallas defense yielding 5.7 yards per play (24th). It appears likely that the 49ers will reach the pivotal score of 28 points, a threshold that has historically troubled the Cowboys.
