The Dallas Cowboys head into Mile High Stadium today in a game that carries a mix of urgency, opportunity, and history.
The Cowboys, sitting at 3-3-1, have flashed brilliance on offense but inconsistency on defense, particularly after a wave of injuries in the secondary.
Meanwhile, the Denver Broncos have ridden the steady hand of QB Bo Nix and a stingy defense to a 5-2 start, becoming one of the AFC’s surprise contenders.
For Dallas, this matchup means more than just another midseason test, it’s a chance to exorcise some long-standing demons. The Cowboys haven’t beaten the Broncos since 1995 and haven’t left Denver with a win since 1992.
To flip that script, they’ll need bold, difference-making performances from unexpected contributors.
Here are three bold predictions for today’s clash that, while far-fetched, remain grounded in the reality of what could unfold at Mile High.
Cowboys training camp battle at safety will be fierce
Backups Record an Interception
This prediction borders on wishful thinking given the Cowboys’ current state in the secondary.
Dallas will be without Trevon Diggs, Donovan Wilson, Malik Hooker, and Juanyeh Thomas, all key playmakers on the back end.
That leaves relative unknowns Alijah Clark and Markquese Bell to start at safety, and their inexperience will certainly be tested by the poised rookie Nix.
Still, Dallas has surprisingly fielded a pass rush that can turn any quarterback human this season despite Micah Parsons no longer on the team.
The Cowboys may not have their star defensive backs, but pressure leads to mistakes, and one tipped ball or underthrown pass could give the depleted secondary the break it needs.
Expect one of those little-known safeties, or perhaps DaRon Bland, who already has four picks this season, to make a timely interception that swings momentum.
Celebrating Dallas Cowboys player player Derek Carr during a game, showing intense emotion and excitement, wearing team jersey and helmet, with teammates and fans in the background.
Offense Will Eclipse 400 Yards
If the defense can hold up, the offense has every chance to steal the spotlight.
The Broncos’ defense ranks second in the NFL, allowing just 273.1 yards per game, while the Cowboys’ offense leads the league with 390.6 yards per game. Something’s got to give.
Dallas has eclipsed 400 yards of total offense four times this season and is averaging 31.5 points in those contests.
The formula has been simple: Dak Prescott spreading the ball to CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens, and Jake Ferguson, while Javonte Williams chips away on the ground.
Denver’s pass rush is elite, but if the Cowboys’ offensive line can give Prescott time, Dallas has the balance and creativity to push past the 400-yard mark.
Javonte Reaches 100 Yards
The final bold prediction flips the narrative to the other sideline. Javonte Williams, now in his first full season back from injury and facing his old teammates, could be in for a statement performance.
The Broncos have allowed just one 100-yard rushing game this year, but Williams’ physical, downhill style could wear down the Broncos’ defense.
He’s only surpassed 100 yards twice this season, and Denver’s defensive line will have its hands full with Tyler Smith and the rest of the Cowboys’ offensive line.
If the Cowboys can build a lead and control time of possession, Williams could easily hit that mark for a third time.
Breaking a 30-year Mile High curse won’t come easy, but if Dallas can force a rare Bo Nix turnover, unleash another offensive explosion, and get a Javonte Williams’ revenge game, they might just walk out of Denver with a season-defining victory, and a little piece of history rewritten.
Mario Herrera Jr. is a husband, a father of three, and he has been a Dallas Cowboys fan since 1991. He's a stats guy, although stats don't always tell the whole story. Writing about the Dallas Cowboys is his passion. Dak Prescott apologist.
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Athletic players competing for football reception in an NFL game, showcasing intense action and athleticism on the field.
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