Disappointing Cowboys Prepare for Disappointing Panthers
Two of the most disappointing teams in 2012 will play each other in a not so heated match-up between the Dallas Cowboys and the Carolina Panthers. 
During the offseason, both of these teams were projected to be playoff contenders in the NFC. So far, the Cowboys and Panthers have disappointed their fan bases and are a combined 3-7.
Neither team is lacking talent, especially at the quarterback position. Phenom Cam Newton and the Redskins best friend Tony Romo will square off in what should be an exceptional game. The Cowboys have more talent than the Panthers from top to bottom, and that should be enough to lead them to a victory on Sunday.
The Cowboys running game dominated last week in their loss to the Ravens, but a large part of the running game will not be active due to DeMarco Murray’s injury. This is a good week for Murray to miss because the Panthers struggle to defend the pass. The Panthers have poor defensive backs and if Romo can capitalize on that weakness then the Cowboys should be in good shape. With that being said, the Cowboys still need to have a successful running game in order to be effective. With Murray out, Felix Jones will start for the Cowboys and the former first round pick should be effective enough to set up play action.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Cowboys are more talented than the Panthers. The Cowboys should be able to keep Newton in check with just a four man rush. However, they still will have to keep veteran wide receiver Steve Smith contained as he can burn almost any defensive back in man coverage.
Predictions:
- Game: Cowboys 27 Panthers 24
- Tony Romo: 2 touchdown passes
- Felix Jones: 1 rushing touchdown.
- Cam Newton: 2 touchdown passes, 1 interception
- Jonathan Stewart: 1 touchdown
Key players:
- Steve Smith: If the Cowboys defense wants to stop the passing game they must neutralize Smith. Smith has hands like glue and speed that kills. He will be a factor when the Panthers try to pass.
- Jason Witten: Witten is Romo’s safety valve. When in doubt, Romo drops the ball off to Witten for a first down. Witten keeps the Cowboys offense in rhythm.
- Chris Gamble: If the Panthers want to be effective on defense they must rely on Gamble. Can he do enough to stop Witten, Miles Austin, and Dez Bryant
- DeMarcus Ware: D-Ware is quickly losing his elite status. It’s become apparent that Sean Lee has taken over the Cowboys defense. Ware needs to step up and become the playmaker he once was.
