As the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants gear up for their 125th matchup in Week 4, the stakes are unmistakably high. Since their first meeting, this rivalry has been a fixture of the NFL, and the Cowboys maintain an edge in the all-time series with a 75-47-2 record. Adding to the intensity, Dallas has triumphed in the last six encounters against New York, with the Giants' last victory coming during the 2020-21 NFL season.
Cowboys' Offensive Prowess
Both teams come into this game with distinct narratives. For the Cowboys, it’s been a story of offensive dominance, particularly evident from last season when they scored at least 40 points in both clashes with the Giants. At the helm of Dallas' attack is quarterback Dak Prescott, whose impressive stats underscore his vital role. Prescott recently inked a four-year, $240 million contract, reflecting the team’s confidence in his abilities. Last season, Prescott led the league in passing touchdowns with 36 and finished third in passing yards with 4,516.
Prescott's value extends beyond his aerial prowess. He amassed 403 passing yards, three touchdowns, and rushed for 45 yards in the playoffs last season. Just last week, he added a 1-yard rushing touchdown to his tally along with 379 passing yards and two touchdowns. As one analyst opined, "Prescott doesn't often showcase that rushing side anymore, but just the fact he has the potential to scramble and create offense with his legs adds to his NFL DFS value." This versatility makes Prescott a constant threat to any defense he faces.
Giants' New Offensive Weapon
The New York Giants, meanwhile, are looking to turn their season around after securing their first win against the Cleveland Browns with a 21-15 scoreline. Quarterback Daniel Jones showed promise, throwing for 236 yards and two touchdowns. However, it's rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers who has emerged as a standout performer. Drafted as the No. 6 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Nabers has quickly become Jones' go-to target.
Nabers' stats are compelling. With 37 targets over the first three weeks—13 more than any other Giants player—he has caught 30 of these targets in the last two games alone. His 37.8% target share makes him responsible for 50.7% of all New York wide receiver targets this season. In the victory against Cleveland, Nabers tallied eight receptions for 78 yards and two touchdowns. One expert on the rookie’s performance noted, "Nabers will likely receive another huge target share on Thursday, and with the Cowboys allowing 29.7 points per game, ranking 30th in the NFL, to begin the 2024 NFL season, McClure expects another huge performance from the rookie."
Defensive Concerns for Dallas
Despite their offensive firepower, the Cowboys are plagued by defensive issues. Dallas’ defense is currently allowing 29.7 points per game, positioning them as the second-worst in the league this season. This vulnerability could be an opportunity for the Giants, especially if Nabers continues his remarkable form.
As both teams prepare for this crucial encounter, the game promises to be a captivating display of offensive talents and defensive strategies. Prescott will aim to continue his stellar performances and extend Dallas' winning streak against the Giants, while Nabers and Jones look to exploit the Cowboys' defensive frailties. With so much at stake, fans can expect another unforgettable chapter in this storied rivalry.