Cowboys vs Packers preview
- pratheekanne1
- Sep 27
- 3 min read
“Prove it, boys.”
The Context
The Cowboys enter this game 1-2, sitting in a corner they can’t afford to linger in. Losses to the Eagles and especially the Bears have raised more questions than answers. CBSSports.com+3Reuters+3New York Post+3
On the flip side, the Packers are 2-1, riding momentum and energy. What makes this game especially charged: Micah Parsons, once one of Dallas’ defensive cornerstones, is now wearing Green Bay green. It’s not just a matchup; it’s emotional. Reuters+2Blogging The Boys+2
Key Storylines
Micah Parsons’ ReturnAfter the trade, this is by far the biggest subplot. Can Parsons disrupt Dallas’ offense again? He’ll be hunting former teammates, and that adds emotional weight. For the Cowboys, it’s not just about stopping him — it’s about dignity and showing that the defense can still stand up. Reuters+2Blogging The Boys+2
CeeDee Lamb’s InjuryLamb is expected to miss 3–4 weeks with a high-ankle sprain. That’s a huge blow. Lamb isn’t just a top target; he’s often the spark that opens up the rest of the offense. Without him, the passing game has to find other ways to threaten. Reuters+1
Offensive Line / ProtectionWith Parsons across the way and without some starters, Dallas will need to keep Prescott clean. The room for error is slim. The Packers’ pass rush has been effective; this game could hinge on how well the Cowboys can anchor up in the trenches. Blogging The Boys+2CBSSports.com+2
Defense’s FragilityThe defense has been exposed so far, particularly in the pass game. Losing Parsons has left a hole. Green Bay will test the secondary and look to exploit mismatches, especially in zone coverage where Dallas has shown weakness. Dallas bought the trade with Kenny Clark, but how much that helps in the short term vs big plays from Green Bay remains to be seen. Stathead+3Acme Packing Company+3Blogging The Boys+3
Run Game Must Step UpDallas needs balance. If the pass game is under pressure (literally), the run game led by Javonte Williams must do more than just exist — it has to help dictate tempo, keep Green Bay honest, and relieve pressure on Prescott. CBSSports.com+1
The Positives Dallas Can Lean Into
Motivation & Home Crowd: There’s no better time to respond than in primetime at AT&T. The “prove-it” factor is strong.
Talent Depth (If Healthy Enough): Outside of Lamb, there are targets like George Pickens and tight ends (Jake Ferguson) who must step up. Bigger role, bigger chance. New York Post+1
Adjustments on Defense: While Parsons is gone, players like Kenny Clark can help against the run, and scheme tweaks may reduce exposure. If the pressure can be generated, turnovers are possible. Reuters+1
What Needs to Go Right — Or It’s Rough
Quick Strikes Early: Dallas can’t afford to fall behind. Packers getting momentum early with Parsons and an energized pass rush spells trouble.
Limit Mistakes: Penalties, missed blocks, dropped passes — any of those become huge in a game like this.
Secondary Needs to Don’t Fold: Big plays downfield or blown coverages will kill. Focus on assignments, discipline, and communication.
Clock Management / Keeping Packers Off Field: Long drives, sustained offensive possession, and good special teams will matter.
Prediction & Outlook
Honestly, this one is going to be tough. Vegas is favoring Green Bay by about 6.5 points. CBSSports.com+1
If everything clicks: offense is balanced, protection holds up, defense forces a few turnovers, and Cowboys get that emotional lift, maybe they pull off an upset.
If not: Green Bay’s edge rush and Parsons’ extra motivation likely tip the scale. I lean towards:
Packers 35, Cowboys 17 — unless Dallas plays with urgency and puts the hammer on early. But as a fan, I’m hoping to be wrong about that spread.
What to Watch
Micah Parsons’ sack/pressure numbers vs his former team.
How Prescott handles adversity — especially blitzes and pressure.
George Pickens, Jake Ferguson, anyone stepping up in the passing game.
Dallas’ defensive adjustments — are they improving pass coverage?
Turnover margin.
Bottom line: This is one of those “statement” games. If Dallas is going to prove it still belongs among the contenders, this is their moment. If they don’t, it’s back to drawing board. Either way — this one will sting or be a reason to believe again.
Do you want me to build a version of this preview with more film breakdown / player matchups, maybe some advanced metrics, or compare past games in this series?



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