5 bold predictions for Cowboys against Panthers

2. Micah Parsons will force a fumble

The Cowboys drafted Parsons to be a playmaker at outside linebacker, but injuries have already forced him to take significant steps at defensive end. The good news for Dallas’ defensive coaching staff is that he’s provided them great athleticism off the edge whenever he’s asked to line up on the defensive front.

Choosing him to burn the Panthers’ very mediocre tackles for a sack would be too easy. The prediction here is that Parsons will get to Darnold for a strip-sack. It’s worth noting that Darnold’s ball security in the pocket hasn’t been good during his team’s three-game winning streak. Parsons is the sort of guy who should salivate when seeing that weakness on film.

Of course, Carolina’s offensive coaching staff will do everything they can to keep Parsons out of their backfield. Look for tight end Ian Thomas to be used to chip the rookie edge rusher on a high percentage of his snaps.

Anytime Parsons gets a chance to go one-on-one he’s going to have a great chance to wreak havoc. He’s primed to have a big game against Carolina’s questionable offensive line on Sunday.