NFL Playoffs 2019: Divisional Round matchups and predictions
By Sanjit T.
Dallas Cowboys at Los Angeles Rams, 5:15pm PT Saturday
This game will probably be the most viewed game of the four games this weekend. The Rams are ranked as the 2nd best offense in the NFL, while the Cowboys are ranked as the 22nd offense. However, the Cowboys defense is ranked #6, while the Rams Defense is ranked No. 20. This game will be very interesting as the Cowboys will try to impose their zone running game on the Rams. Although I like the young Cowboy’s Team, I don’t think they will be able to match up with the Rams. I predict the Rams to win 28-21.
The Rams offense is very effective. Averaging 33 points per game, the Rams can pick their poison and although I like Jaylon Smith and Leighton Vander Esch, they will be tested in a way that they haven’t yet all season. I believe Sean McVay is going to expose these Linebackers. Sean McVay will creatively force Vander Esch to line up in the slot covering receivers quicker than him, and Vander Esch, who has given up 72 catches this season, the second most among linebackers, will struggle.
With Aqib Talib, Marcus Peters, and one of NFL’s best slot corners, Nickell Robey-Coleman, life will be very hard for Prescott. I don’t think Dallas offense has enough receiving weapons, and this will be exposed once the Rams take out Cooper, and Robey-Coleman contains Cole Beasley. Lastly, Aaron Donald vs rookie guard Conner Williams will be a nightmare for the Cowboys. Considering Dak Prescott is the 2nd most sacked QB in 2018, I doubt the Cowboys will come out with this win.