On Sunday October 16, 2011, the Dallas Cowboys visit the New England Patriots in Week 6 of the National Football League (NFL). This will be the Cowboys toughest game to date. The Patriots are heavily favored but do not count the Cowboys out. Here are five reasons why the Cowboys can beat the Patriots.
Good Health
The bye week gave the Cowboys a chance to get healthy. Starting wide receivers Miles Austin has been out with a hamstring injury. Cornerback Orlando Scandrick has been hampered by a high ankle-sprain. Both of them are back on the practice field. There are still some injuries on both sides of the ball but all of the key players are back. This is the healthiest the Cowboys have been all season.
Rest
The bye week let the Cowboys rest and recharge. They will be physically ready for this game. On the other hand, the Patriots are coming off a grudge match against the New York Jets. If there is an ideal scenario to match up physically against the Patriots, this is it.
Preparation
The week off gave Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett time to review tape and make adjustments. Hopefully for Cowboys fans Garrett addressed the team's inability to run the ball (86 yards/game) and the poor decision-making of quarterback Tony Romo. The Cowboys had an extra week to prepare for this game.
Cowboys' Defense
The Cowboys' defense has played well this season. They have given up just 291 yards per game (4th best). Prior to the bye week, the Cowboys were among the league leaders in sacks. They are first in defending the rush, giving up just 61 yards per game. The defense has a tough task against Tom Brady and the Patriots' offense. But the Cowboys' defense has been solid in every game so far.
Patriots' Defense
The Patriots' defense has been the exact opposite. Prior to the Jets game, the Patriots gave up 470 yards or more per game. In Week 4, the Patriots yielded 504 yards to the Oakland Raiders. The Cowboys will have all of their offensive weapons on the field this Sunday, along with two weeks of practice and preparation. The Cowboys have the potential to score points, especially if the Patriots' defense plays the way it has for most of the season.
These are five reasons why the Cowboys can beat the Patriots in Week 6 of the NFL. It will be a difficult game for the Cowboys but a win is definitely possible.
