Dallas Cowboys Experts Predict Dominance Over Washington Commanders in Week 17 Clash
On Christmas Day, the Dallas Cowboys are set to face off against the Washington Commanders in a matchup that typically would have significant playoff implications. However, with the Cowboys sitting at 6-8-1 and the Commanders at 4-11, both teams have already been eliminated from postseason contention. Despite the lack of playoff stakes, this divisional rivalry promises an intriguing battle as both squads aim to finish the season on a positive note.
Expert Opinions Favor the Cowboys
As the game approaches, the Cowboys are favored to secure a victory. A roundup of expert predictions reveals a strong consensus in favor of Dallas. The moneyline currently stands at -330 for the Cowboys, with the Commanders at +265, indicating a heavy bias toward the visiting team.
Sports Illustrated Selections
From the team at Sports Illustrated, the picks reflect a clear trend:
Clare Brennan: Cowboys
Mitch Goldich: Cowboys
Gilberto Manzano: Cowboys
Conor Orr: Cowboys
John Pluym: Cowboys
Matt Verderame: Cowboys
Iain MacMillan: Commanders
Peter Dewey: Cowboys
Only one analyst, Iain MacMillan, has opted for the Commanders, showcasing the overwhelming support for Dallas.
ESPN Predictions
While not all experts at ESPN have submitted their predictions, those who have are similarly bullish on the Cowboys’ chances:
Matt Bowen: Cowboys
Mike Clay: Cowboys
Dan Graziano: Cowboys
Pamela Maldanado: Cowboys
Eric Moody: Cowboys
The trend continues with every ESPN analyst backing the Cowboys to emerge victorious.
USA Today Insights
The predictions from USA Today show a mix of opinions, with a couple of experts leaning toward the Commanders. Here are the selections:
Jordan Mendoza: Cowboys (-7)
Tyler Dragon: Cowboys (-7)
Blake Schuster: Commanders (+7)
Jon Hoefling: Commanders (+7)
Lorenzo Reyes: Cowboys (-7)
Christopher Bumbaca: Cowboys (-7)
Blake Schuster suggests that while the Commanders may lack playoff motivation, they could find enthusiasm in the opportunity to spoil the Cowboys’ Christmas. He noted, “Demoralizing the Cowboys on Christmas will get any fanbase excited. This is a decent spot for a home dog on a short week.”
Looking Ahead
As both teams prepare for this matchup, the Cowboys will aim to assert their dominance, while the Commanders will look to finish their season on a high note. With predictions heavily favoring Dallas, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the Cowboys can live up to the expectations set by their supporters.
