Heading into this week’s matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants, both teams have something to prove. The Cowboys are coming off back-to-back losses, including a 28-25 defeat to the Baltimore Ravens, with their defense allowing a concerning 72 points in the last two games. Despite Dak Prescott throwing for 851 yards and four touchdowns this season, the Cowboys’ ground game has struggled, averaging just 73.7 rushing yards per game, ranking among the lowest in the NFL. However, kicker Brandon Aubrey has been a bright spot, going a perfect 10-for-10 on field goals, including a 65-yarder, making the kicking game a potential edge for Dallas in close situations.

On the other hand, the Giants are coming off a confidence-boosting 21-15 win over the Cleveland Browns, improving their record to 1-2. Daniel Jones has been solid with 600 passing yards and four touchdowns, but like the Cowboys, the Giants have struggled on the ground, and their defense has been inconsistent. They’ve allowed an average of 131.7 rushing yards per game. With the Cowboys’ defense ranking 30th in the NFL in EPA and giving up nearly 464 rushing yards over their last two games, this could present an opportunity for the Giants to exploit. Both teams need a win, and this Thursday night showdown could come down to which team can tighten up defensively and win the turnover battle.