This is a must-win game for both of these teams.  The Cowboys need to win the game to keep pace with the Giants, while the Redskins need a win just to keep their fading playoff hopes alive.

Look for the Cowboys to come out running the football with Julius Jones (616 yards rushing) and Marion Barber (264 yards rushing) against a Redskin run defense that allows 110.7 yards rushing per game.  After the run game is quickly established, look for Tony Romo to attack the Redskins down the field with Terrell Owens (37 rec, 482 yards) and Terry Glenn (33 rec, 430 yards).  The Redskins defense has allowed opposing QBs to compile a 101.4 QB rating against them.

When the Redskins have the ball, look for them also to try to run the ball with Clinton Portis (414 yards rushing) and LeDell Betts (275 yards rushing).  The Cowboys defense has been tough against the run allowing only 80.9 yards rushing per game and 3.3 yards per carry, but the Redskins have to try to run to slow the Cowboys pass rush.  A couple of the Redskins overpaid receivers need to step up and earn their paycheck or Mark Brunell could be in deep trouble in the pocket.

The first time these two teams played, the Cowboys absolutely pasted them 27-10 in Dallas.  The only differences in the result this time will be because Tony Romo and Clinton Portis are starting this game…and it’s in Washington.  I think the Cowboys will win this game simply because…..they are the better football team.