Giants vs. Cowboys: 5 Bold Predictions
Giants Win The Ground Game
Nov 23, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants running back Rashad Jennings (23) runs with ball against the Dallas Cowboys during the first quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim O
It’s easy to forget that there is another facet of offense with all of the big names the Giants and Cowboys have in the passing attack. But, the run game is also as important. It was the facet of the game in which the Giants struggled on both sides of the ball, while the Cowboys exceled. At least for one week, those roles will be reversed.
The Giants have an intriguing three-headed monster with Rashad Jennings, Andre Williams and Shane Vereen. The roles are very clear heading into Week 1, which will make for a much more effective ground game than they had in 2014. Jennings is the nominal starter and will play most early downs; Williams is the banger that will work in short yardage and goal line, while Vereen will play passing downs. They have a good blend of skills and should help out Eli Manning.
On the other hand, the Cowboys have one of the muddier running back situations in the league. They let DeMarco Murray walk in the offseason because they believe their offensive line is so strong, it doesn’t matter who is running behind it. They will quickly learn that the player blowing through those holes is as important as the guys making them, as there will be a huge dropoff this season.
Cologne and underwear bandit Joseph Randle looked like he would be the starter, but there is now talk that injury-riddled Darren McFadden could unseat him. And don’t forget passing back Lance Dunbar, who will factor into third downs as well. It will take a little while for the Cowboys to figure things out, as they figure to ride the hot hand in the early going.
In Week 1, the running games will not be the focus, but they could change the tide of the game. In this one, which will be an upset all in itself, the Giants trio will out rush the Cowboys triumvirate. It will be close, but it will be a victory nonetheless for the Giants running game.
Prediction: Giants rush for 120 yards, Cowboys rush for 105
Next: Aerial Assault