Packers and Cowboys Face Off Amidst Injury Challenges
In the lead-up to Sunday night’s clash, both the Green Bay Packers and the Dallas Cowboys are grappling with significant injury issues. With key players sidelined, the question looms: which team is facing a larger setback?
Packers Offensive Line Woes
The Packers are preparing to face the Cowboys without three of their top seven offensive linemen. Right tackle Zach Tom, who is dealing with an oblique injury, and rookie tackle Anthony Belton, suffering from an ankle issue, have both been ruled out. Additionally, left guard Aaron Banks is listed as doubtful due to a groin injury.
Adam Stenavich, the Packers’ offensive coordinator, acknowledged the challenges posed by injuries. “That’s the nature of the NFL. Some years it’s wide receivers, some years it’s running backs, some years it’s offensive line. We’ve gone through this in past years. The expectation is for whoever steps in to help the team win,” he said.
The Packers have grappled with instability at the right tackle position, having rotated four different players there this season. Tom’s injury in Week 1 against Detroit and subsequent absence in Week 2 against Washington forced Belton into his first start. Though Tom returned in Week 3, he exited after just one play, leading to further disruption along the line. This week, Darian Kinnard, a fifth-round pick from the Chiefs in 2022, may take the helm at right tackle. Despite his limited experience, Stenavich praised Kinnard’s diligent work ethic and professionalism.
As the Packers navigate their offensive line crisis, the depth chart becomes precarious. If Kinnard starts, he could be flanked by Rasheed Walker at left tackle and Sean Rhyan at right guard. The pressure mounts on these backups, with practice-squad players like Cooper Dalton and Lecitus Smith waiting in the wings.
In addition to the line struggles, safety Javon Bullard, who has shown promise this season, remains questionable as he continues to clear the concussion protocol. The Packers entered the week with 14 players listed on the injury report, but have narrowed it down to just four as game day approaches.
Cowboys’ Key Absences
For the Cowboys, the loss of wide receiver CeeDee Lamb is a significant blow. Lamb, who has been a standout performer, is out due to a high-ankle sprain. Last season, he emerged as a force, catching 107 passes for 1,359 yards and earning All-Pro honors. His absence will undoubtedly shift the dynamics of Dallas’s offense.
With Lamb sidelined, George Pickens is poised to step up. Pickens, who made his mark with the Steelers, expressed confidence in his ability to make contested catches, regardless of the defensive coverage he faces. Additionally, All-Pro kick returner KaVontae Turpin will see an expanded role, adding speed and agility to the playmaking pool.
The Cowboys are also feeling the impact of injuries along their offensive line. Rookie right guard Tyler Booker is out, and center Cooper Beebe has been placed on injured reserve. These setbacks come as linebacker DeMarvion Overshown remains on the PUP list following a knee injury suffered last season. Other notable players, including defensive end Payton Turner and receiver Jonathan Mingo, are also on injured reserve, compounding the challenges for Dallas.
Despite the injury struggles, the Cowboys will benefit from a robust secondary, with cornerbacks Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland both set to play.
Comparative Impact of Injuries
The question of which team is feeling the greatest pain is complex. While the absence of CeeDee Lamb is a significant concern for the Cowboys, Dak Prescott still has talented options at his disposal. Players like George Pickens and KaVontae Turpin could provide vital contributions, though the uncertainty remains regarding their ability to perform under pressure.
Conversely, the Packers’ offensive line issues present a formidable challenge against Dallas’s defensive front. With stars like Micah Parsons and Rashan Gary leading the charge, the Packers may find it more difficult to protect their quarterback and establish a running game.
As the teams prepare to meet on Sunday night, the edge appears to lie with the Packers, primarily due to the Cowboys’ compromised offensive line facing Green Bay’s formidable defense.
Final Injury Reports
Packers Injury Report
Out: OT Anthony Belton (ankle), RT Zach Tom (oblique)
Doubtful: LG Aaron Banks (groin)
Questionable: S Javon Bullard (concussion)
Cowboys Injury Report
Out: RG Tyler Booker (ankle), WR CeeDee Lamb (ankle)
As the matchup unfolds, the resilience of both teams will be tested, with each squad seeking to overcome their injury hurdles and secure a crucial victory.
