The Dallas Cowboys (4-7) host the New York Giants (2-9) on Thanksgiving Day, a tradition steeped in NFL lore. This NFC East rivalry takes center stage with both teams seeking to redefine their seasons. The Cowboys hold a commanding series lead at 76-47-2, including a 20-15 win earlier this season at MetLife Stadium.
Dallas enters the game on a high note, fresh off a 34-26 road win over the Washington Commanders. Backup quarterback Cooper Rush delivered his best performance in three starts, efficiently guiding an offense that finally found rhythm on the ground. Meanwhile, the Giants are reeling from a 30-7 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, extending their losing streak to six games. Injuries and offensive struggles have plagued New York, casting doubt on their ability to compete with a surging Cowboys squad.
The game’s focal point will be in the trenches, where Giants defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence looks to wreak havoc against a banged-up Cowboys offensive line. Lawrence has been a force this season, registering a career-high nine sacks, tied for sixth in the NFL. Dallas, on the other hand, has struggled to establish a consistent run game due to injuries and inexperience along the offensive front.
Last week, Dallas showcased an improved ground attack, which will be crucial to alleviating pressure on Rush. However, with perennial All-Pro guard Zack Martin and left guard Tyler Smith nursing injuries, containing Lawrence will be a monumental task. If Lawrence dominates, it could disrupt Dallas’ offensive rhythm and give the Giants a fighting chance.
The Giants are facing a potential quarterback crisis. Rookie Tommy DeVito, who started in place of the released Daniel Jones, is dealing with a sore throwing arm. Drew Lock is preparing to step in if DeVito can’t go. New York will also be without key contributors such as OLB Azeez Ojulari (toe), LT Jermaine Eluemunor (quad), and DL Armon Watts (shoulder).
Dallas has its share of injury concerns as well. Zack Martin and cornerback Trevon Diggs are questionable, while tight end Jake Ferguson remains in concussion protocol. Wide receiver Brandin Cooks, sidelined since Week 3, is nearing a return, which could bolster the Cowboys’ passing attack.
Dallas has dominated this rivalry in recent years, winning 14 of the last 15 matchups. This is the second Thanksgiving clash between the teams in three years; the Cowboys won the last meeting 28-20 in 2022. The Giants have struggled on the holiday, with their last Thanksgiving win coming in 1982.
Despite Dallas’ recent win over Washington, the Cowboys are winless at home this season, a shocking development for a franchise that once had a 16-game winning streak at AT&T Stadium. Breaking that streak will be a priority as they aim to keep their playoff hopes alive.
For Dallas, this game offers a chance to solidify momentum and snap a frustrating home losing streak. For the Giants, it’s an opportunity to salvage pride and snap their skid in front of a national audience. With playoff implications for both teams dwindling, expect a hard-fought contest where mistakes could prove costly.
Will the Cowboys extend their Thanksgiving dominance, or can the Giants pull off a holiday upset? All eyes will be on AT&T Stadium this Thursday.
