5 bold predictions for Cowboys against Broncos

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - OCTOBER 31: Head coach Mike McCarthy of the Dallas Cowboys talks with Dak Prescott #4 against the Minnesota Vikings during the second half at U.S. Bank Stadium on October 31, 2021 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images) /

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INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 19: Quarterback Justin Herbert #10 of the Los Angeles Chargers looks to throw the ball as he is pressured by linebacker Keanu Neal #42 of the Dallas Cowboys during the third quarter at SoFi Stadium on September 19, 2021 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /

3. Keanu Neal will force a turnover

Jabril Cox’s season-ending injury will force Neal into a big role for the rest of the season. He’s not big enough to be a classic middle linebacker, but his quickness does allow him to be a plus guy in coverage against running backs and tight ends.

That’s where he’ll bring value to Dallas’ defense in this game. Denver will try to play it safe in the pass game by throwing the ball short. That will put Neal in the spotlight to try to break things up with his ability to play effectively in space.

The most likely way for Neal to notch a turnover would be for him to get his hands on the ball via an interception. There’s also a chance he can dislodge the ball from a tight end or back to force a fumble.

One way or another, Neal is going to force a big turnover to boost his defense. He won’t be the star of the show for Dallas at this stage of his career, but he’ll be an underrated factor for their defense as long as he stays healthy. This is a great matchup for the veteran safety-turned linebacker.

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