JUST IN:SDallas Cowboys Bold Predictions for Week 16 Sunday Night Football vs. Buccaneers…
As the 2023 NFL season nears its final stretch, the Dallas Cowboys are primed for a crucial Week 16 matchup on Sunday Night Football against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With both teams fighting for playoff positioning, this game carries immense importance for both squads, especially the Cowboys, who are aiming to secure a solid seeding in the NFC. With that in mind, here are some bold predictions for this exciting Sunday night contest.
1. Dak Prescott Throws for Over 350 Yards
Dak Prescott has had his fair share of ups and downs this season, but in Week 16, he’ll step up in a big way. The Buccaneers have been susceptible to big passing games throughout the season, ranking 21st in pass defense, and Prescott is poised to take advantage of this. With his wide receiver corps firing on all cylinders, led by CeeDee Lamb and the return of Michael Gallup to form, Prescott will throw for over 350 yards, posting one of his best performances of the year.
The Cowboys’ offense has been dynamic in recent weeks, and with the Buccaneers’ defense struggling against high-powered offenses, Prescott will exploit mismatches and make big plays down the field. Lamb will continue his Pro Bowl-caliber season, and Gallup will make an impact with at least one big catch in the game.
2. CeeDee Lamb Breaks 100 Yards and Scores Two Touchdowns
CeeDee Lamb has been one of the NFL’s most consistent wide receivers this season. Heading into Week 16, he has over 1,200 receiving yards and is quickly becoming one of the most dangerous playmakers in the league. Against a Buccaneers defense that has struggled to contain top-tier wideouts, Lamb is primed for a big night.
Look for Lamb to break 100 receiving yards and find the end zone twice in this matchup. Whether it’s through a series of deep passes or a couple of quick strikes in the red zone, Lamb will be a focal point of the Cowboys’ passing game. Prescott will look for him often, especially in critical moments, and Lamb will deliver with spectacular catches and touchdowns that put the Cowboys in control of the game.
3. Micah Parsons Records 2 Sacks and Forces a Fumble
On the defensive side of the ball, the Dallas Cowboys’ defensive player of the year candidate, Micah Parsons, will be a difference-maker in this game. The Buccaneers’ offensive line has had issues protecting quarterback Baker Mayfield, allowing 33 sacks on the season. Parsons, known for his relentless pass rush and versatility, will be a terror off the edge.
Expect Parsons to register two sacks and force a fumble, disrupting Mayfield’s rhythm throughout the game. His speed and power will be too much for Tampa Bay’s offensive line to handle, and he’ll help set the tone for the Cowboys’ defense. With Tampa Bay’s offense already dealing with inconsistencies, Parsons’ ability to pressure Mayfield will make it hard for the Buccaneers to move the ball efficiently.
4. The Cowboys Defense Forces 3 Turnovers
The Cowboys’ defense has been one of the league’s best at creating turnovers this season, ranking second in the NFL with 25 interceptions and forced fumbles combined. Against a Buccaneers offense that has struggled with turnovers all season (ranking 24th in turnover differential), Dallas will capitalize on this weakness.
In Week 16, expect the Cowboys to force at least three turnovers. Whether it’s a couple of interceptions from Mayfield, who’s been prone to mistakes this year, or a forced fumble on a key play, the Cowboys will turn defense into offense. Dallas has thrived in games where they’ve created turnovers, and this contest will be no different.
5. Tony Pollard Rushes for Over 100 Yards and Scores a Touchdown
While Dak Prescott and the passing game will get their share of attention, the Cowboys’ running game will also be a factor in this game. Tony Pollard, who has been inconsistent this season but still flashes his big-play ability, will take center stage in Week 16. The Buccaneers have allowed 130.4 rushing yards per game this season, ranking 21st in the NFL, which bodes well for Pollard’s chances of having a breakout game.
Look for Pollard to rush for over 100 yards and score at least one touchdown, whether it’s through a 10-yard burst into the end zone or a longer run to change the game’s momentum. With the Cowboys likely using the run game to control the clock and keep Tampa Bay’s offense off the field, Pollard’s contributions will be critical in helping Dallas secure a win.
6. The Cowboys Win by Double Digits (31-20)
With both teams heading in different directions, the Cowboys are the more well-rounded and talented team on paper. Despite the Buccaneers’ fighting spirit, it will be difficult for Tampa Bay to match up with the Cowboys’ offensive and defensive depth. The combination of Prescott’s arm, Lamb’s big plays, Parsons’ pressure, and the opportunistic defense will be too much for the Buccaneers to overcome.
The Cowboys will secure a solid win by a score of 31-20, with the game being relatively comfortable by the fourth quarter. Tampa Bay will struggle to keep up with Dallas’ firepower, and in the end, the Cowboys will walk away with a crucial victory as they gear up for a potential playoff run.
Conclusion
Week 16 will be a pivotal moment for the Dallas Cowboys as they look to solidify their playoff position. With the bold predictions outlined, it’s clear that the Cowboys are poised to dominate this matchup against the Buccaneers. Dak Prescott’s big game, CeeDee Lamb’s dominance, Micah Parsons’ pass-rush terror, and the Cowboys’ ability to force turnovers will lead to a convincing victory, keeping their momentum high as they approach the postseason. If these predictions hold true, the Cowboys will continue to prove themselves as one of the NFC’s top contenders.