Cowboys at Redskins: Preview and prediction

Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Redskins prediction

The storied rivalry continues, as the Dallas Cowboys and Washington Redskins battle it out at FedEx Field in their Week 13 Monday Night Football matchup. The New York Giants lost their game against the New York Jets on Sunday, while the Philadelphia Eagles won theirs against the New England Patriots.

Washington currently leads the NFC East with a record of 5-6, ahead of the Eagles (5-7), Giants (5-7), and Cowboys (3-8). Tonight’s game is a must-win if Washington expects to stay atop their division. For the Cowboys, Monday is a must-win if they want to keep their playoff hopes alive. (Yes, even at 3-8, the Cowboys are still playoff contenders.)

The Cowboys last victory was a 24-14 win against the Miami Dolphins on Nov. 22, their lone win in the last eight games. Washington’s last victories came against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Oct. 25, New Orleans Saints on Nov. 15, and the Giants in Week 12 on Nov. 29.

The Cowboys have lost many games in the final quarter or overtime, so their 3-8 record probably does not reflect the actual strength of the team. If the Cowboys can establish the run game, they have a shot at winning. On the other hand, if the game depends on Matt Cassel beating Washington through the air, then it is unlikely the Cowboys will see their fourth victory of the season.

Washington quarterback Kirk Cousins has had stellar games and dismal games. Against New Orleans, he threw for 324 yards and four touchdowns, and the next week, he threw for a less impressive 207 yards and a single touchdown.

If Cousins can throw for over 300 yards, and if the Washington defense can shut down the Cowboys run game, Washington will maintain their lead in the NFC East.

Prediction: Washington 27, Dallas 13