The Pittsburgh Steelers’ Week 5 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys just became significantly more favorable following some concerning injury news out of Dallas.
Key players for the Cowboys have been dealing with injuries that could hinder their performance on Sunday, presenting the Steelers with an unexpected advantage.
Dallas had already been managing injuries to several crucial players, but the latest updates have raised the stakes. The biggest headline involves star quarterback Dak Prescott, who has been dealing with a shoulder strain.
While Prescott has been trying to push through, there are now growing concerns that the injury might be more serious than initially thought.
Recent reports suggest that the Cowboys might hold him out of Sunday’s game, a move that would have a profound impact on their offensive strategy.
Should Prescott be unable to play, backup quarterback Cooper Rush would likely take the reins. Rush has stepped in admirably during Prescott’s previous absences, but he is not on the same level as the veteran starter.
Rush’s limited experience in high-pressure situations could prove to be a liability for Dallas, particularly against a Steelers defense that has shown it can capitalize on turnovers.
Additionally, Cowboys’ star running back Tony Pollard, who has been nursing a rib injury, could also be less than 100% on Sunday. Pollard has been a key piece of the Cowboys’ offense this season, and a diminished Pollard could lead to a less dynamic run game.
If Pollard is sidelined or limited, the Steelers’ defense will likely focus more on containing the passing game, making them more formidable as a unit.
On the defensive side of the ball, Dallas has its own injury woes. Defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence is dealing with a shoulder issue that could keep him off the field or limit his effectiveness.
Lawrence has been a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ pass rush, and his absence would be a significant blow to their defense.
The Steelers’ offensive line, which has been improving, will likely feel more confident going up against a weakened defensive front without Lawrence’s pressure.
The Steelers, meanwhile, have mostly avoided major injury concerns in recent weeks, giving them the edge in preparation for the game.
Pittsburgh’s defense, led by T.J. Watt, has been firing on all cylinders, and a potentially diminished Cowboys squad could find it hard to keep up.
With the Cowboys’ offense likely to be less potent and their defense weakened, the Steelers now find themselves in a position to take advantage of these key injuries.
If Pittsburgh can execute a balanced attack, they could walk away with a crucial win in Week 5, boosting their momentum for the remainder of the season.