This is a huge spot for Raiders defensive tackle Justin Ellis. He has been quiet of late, but his play has been mostly solid all year for the Silver and Black. However on Sunday, he might be facing his toughest challenge of the season against the stout offensive interior of the Cowboys.
Ellis not only has to deal with arguably the best center in football in Travis Frederick, but guard Zack Martin is a perennial Pro Bowl talent playing next to him. Having to deal with two elite offensive linemen could be immensely difficult for Ellis in running defense. He should be thrilled that this is the last game that Ezekiel Elliott will be suspended for the Cowboys.
If the Raiders can slow down the Cowboys’ rushing attack with the solid Alfred Morris as the featured back, then the Raiders can find a pathway to victory. Should the Cowboys be able to pick up first down after first down on the ground, it could be a long night for the Raiders defense.
Oakland has to have confidence in its secondary to try to let Dak Prescott beat the team with his arm. However if Prescott has a running game he can lean on, it will be lights out for this Raiders defense once again. Stopping the run is paramount on Sunday night for the Raiders. It starts with the best game of the season out of Ellis. He’ll have more than his hands full with Frederick, Martin and company.