Ronald Harrod Jr
2 min read • November 19, 2022
Posted in
This matchup between two storied NFC franchises features one of the healthier matchups of the week. Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott will return after a two game absence, but will play with a brace. The Vikings, meanwhile, have picked up a few injuries on defense that may leave them vulnerable for their first loss since Week 2 against the Eagles.
In their last road matchup, the Dallas Cowboys were upset by the Green Bay Packers. This week they face the Minnesota Vikings, who own the second-best record in the NFL.
The Cowboys signed linebacker Anthony Barr after the Vikings didn’t retain him. Barr was out last week and didn’t participate in practice because of a hamstring injury. So far this week, he’s been a limited participant on Wednesday and Thursday. With about two weeks since initially sustaining the injury, Barr might be inching closer to returning.
Star running back Ezekiel Elliott was reportedly expected to play last week but ended up not suiting up after testing his knee in pregame warmups. Elliott spoke to the Media on Thursday about the injury.
“I’m definitely very optimistic about this week. Barring any setbacks the next couple of days, I’m feeling good,” Elliot told the media. “I feel as good as I’ve felt since the injury this early in a week. I think I’m in a good spot.” Plans to have my knee “braced up.”
Demarcus Lawrence has played in every game for the Cowboys this year. On Wednesday, he popped up on the injury report with a foot injury. He hasn’t practiced all week. Lawrence spoke to the media regarding the injury.
“Right knee hurts worse than the feet. I'm dealing with so much right now,” Lawrence said. “Just trying to stay focused on the task at hand.”
The Vikings are coming off beating the Buffalo Bills in an overtime thriller that resulted in another Kirk Cousins plane video. But, even after the thrilling victory, the Vikings suffered some injuries to key starters.
Christian Darrisaw and Akayleb Evans both suffered concussions in the game. Darrisaw has been one of the best tackles in the NFL this year, with an 89.8 PFF grade. He’s played in every game this season, but the NFL’s new concussion rules might make it difficult for him to play within a week of receiving one. However, Darrisaw was a limited participant in Thursday’s practice, while Evans has not practiced both days.
Evans took over starting cornerback duties after Cam Dantzler was put on injured reserve. If Evans cannot play, the Vikings will be down to their fourth-string cornerback against the Cowboys.
Defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson is battling a calf injury that's kept him out of practice this week. Tomilson played his lowest snap count (28) of the year against the Bills. According to PFF, Tomlinson has been a force rushing the passer this season with an 80.7 pass-rushing grade. His loss would be a substantial blow to Minnesota's interior rush.
The Dallas Cowboys are favored by 1.5 points on the road to the Minnesota Vikings and the over/under is 47.5, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.
Through Week 9, our staff is 55% on player props and 59% on live bets.
For injury-based picks throughout the season, sign up for SIC picks here.
Written by Ronald Harrod Jr
