Stephen A. Smith has expressed strong doubts about the Dallas Cowboys’ chances against the Pittsburgh Steelers this Sunday, specifically highlighting the struggles of quarterback Dak Prescott. On ESPN’s First Take, he predicted that Prescott will face significant challenges, saying he’ll be “target practice” for a dominant Steelers defense. The Cowboys, who rank as the NFL’s worst rushing offense, have shifted to a heavy passing strategy, which could compound their issues against Pittsburgh’s formidable defensive front.
By the Numbers
- The Cowboys have the lowest rushing yards in the NFL this season, with just 301 yards.
- Prescott has been sacked 10 times this season, ranking 12th most in the league, despite throwing the second-most attempts per game at 38.
Yes, But
While the Steelers are favored due to their strong defense, the absence of key player Alex Highsmith may weaken their pass rush. Additionally, Prescott’s ability to avoid sacks could play a crucial role in how the game unfolds.
State of Play
- The Steelers defense is considered one of the best in the league, featuring top players like Cameron Heyward and T.J. Watt.
- Despite Highsmith’s injury, Nick Herbig has shown promising performance with an 81.6 PFF grade and two sacks this season.
What’s Next
If Smith’s prediction comes true, it could lead to a significant setback for the Cowboys, complicating their playoff aspirations. Future games may see them revisit their offensive strategies to better support Prescott.
Bottom Line
The Cowboys face a formidable challenge in the Steelers’ defense, and this matchup could reveal critical weaknesses in their offensive approach. Fans should watch closely to see if Dallas can adapt under pressure from a top-tier defense.