Packers aim for perfection at AT&T Stadium while Cowboys prepare for Micah Parsons’ return
The Green Bay Packers are set to clash with the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday night in a highly anticipated matchup at AT&T Stadium. After a challenging loss to the Cleveland Browns, the Packers (2-1) are eager to bounce back against a struggling Cowboys team (1-2). As the teams gear up for the showdown, here’s a look at key players to watch, an overview of the Cowboys’ operational phases, and crucial factors that could lead to a Packers victory.
Game Details
Date and Time: Sunday at 7:20 p.m.
Broadcast: NBC, featuring Mike Tirico, Cris Collinsworth, and Melissa Stark on the sidelines.
Betting Line: The Packers are favored by 6.5 points, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.
Weather: Expect partly cloudy skies with an evening temperature around 71 degrees and a light southeast wind at 6 mph. However, the roof at AT&T Stadium is likely to be closed, ensuring a controlled environment.
Historical Context
The Packers hold a notable edge in their all-time series against the Cowboys, leading 22-17. Impressively, Green Bay has won its last five encounters and 10 of the last 11 matchups. They remain undefeated at AT&T Stadium, boasting a perfect record with five victories since the venue’s inception, scoring no less than 34 points in each of these contests.
Key Players for the Cowboys
Jake Ferguson
The Cowboys’ tight end has evolved into a crucial component of the passing game. With 27 receptions, Ferguson leads all tight ends and ranks second overall on the team with 183 receiving yards. Following the injury to star receiver CeeDee Lamb, who is expected to miss several weeks due to a high-ankle sprain, Ferguson’s role will be amplified. In their previous playoff matchup against the Packers, he showcased his potential by catching 10 passes for 93 yards and three touchdowns.
George Pickens
George Pickens has quickly established himself as a reliable target for quarterback Dak Prescott, particularly in the wake of Lamb’s absence. Acquired from the Steelers earlier this year, Pickens has proven his worth with 13 receptions for 166 yards and two touchdowns. His impressive hands and body control have made him a standout, including a spectacular one-handed touchdown catch last week. With increased responsibilities as the team’s top receiver, he will have ample opportunities to connect with Prescott.
Javonte Williams
Javonte Williams is poised for a breakout season in his first year with the Cowboys after a promising rookie campaign with the Broncos. Currently, he ranks seventh in the league with 227 rushing yards and has proven effective with a 5.3-yard average per carry. With three rushing touchdowns to his name, Williams is on track to challenge his career high. Expect the Cowboys to lean on their ground game even more as they navigate Lamb’s absence and seek to maintain a balanced offense.
Key Players for the Packers
Micah Parsons
Making his return to Dallas, Micah Parsons is one of the most anticipated figures in this matchup. After four seasons with the Cowboys, he was traded to the Packers in late August and has already made a significant impact on their defense. Although he has recorded only 1.5 sacks, Parsons ranks third among edge defenders in pass-rush win rate, creating opportunities for his teammates. His presence could prove pivotal in this game, as he aims to showcase his full potential after missing training camp.
Parsons, however, is taking a measured approach to his return, downplaying it as “just another game.” Even so, the emotional stakes are high, and his performance will be closely scrutinized as he continues to adjust to his new team.
As the Packers and Cowboys prepare for this Sunday night showdown, the anticipation builds. Both teams have pivotal storylines, with Green Bay striving to maintain its perfect record at AT&T Stadium while Dallas looks to regain momentum with key players stepping up in crucial roles.
