The Dallas Cowboys and Washington Commanders, two bitter NFC East rivals, are set to clash in a Week 7 showdown at AT&T Stadium. Both teams are coming off disappointing losses and are eager to bounce back. The game features a compelling quarterback duel between Dak Prescott and Jayden Daniels. With both teams looking to gain ground in the NFC playoff picture, this game carries significant importance.
This article provides a comprehensive preview of the game, including where to watch, expert predictions, key matchups, and the latest betting odds. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, this guide will equip you with everything you need to know before kickoff. Expect a high-scoring affair as both offenses look to exploit vulnerabilities in their opponent’s defenses. The Cowboys, known for their explosive offense, will face a Commanders defense eager to prove themselves, while the Commanders’ dynamic rushing attack will test the Cowboys’ struggling run defense.
Where to Watch Commanders vs. Cowboys Live
- When: Sunday, Oct. 19
- Time: 4:25 p.m. ET
- Where: AT&T Stadium — Arlington, Texas
- TV: Fox
- Stream: (try for free)
- Odds: Commanders -1.5; O/U 54.5
For fans looking to catch the game live, here are the viewing options. The game will be broadcast on Fox, with streaming options available for those who prefer to watch online. Make sure to check your local listings for specific channel information. With kickoff set for 4:25 p.m. ET, be sure to tune in early to catch all the pre-game analysis and commentary. The Commanders are slight favorites, according to the odds, but the Cowboys will be looking to defend their home turf and secure a crucial victory.
Cowboys vs. Commanders: Need to Know
The Week 7 matchup between the Washington Commanders (3-3) and the Dallas Cowboys (2-3-1) at AT&T Stadium isn’t a game that will officially eliminate either team from postseason contention, but it certainly carries that weight. Both teams suffered heartbreaking losses in Week 6, each blowing fourth-quarter leads and succumbing to game-winning field goals as time expired. The Cowboys fell 30-27 to the Carolina Panthers after leading 24-20, while the Commanders were defeated 25-24 by the Chicago Bears after holding a 24-16 advantage.
With ten teams in the NFC entering Week 7 with two or fewer losses, a defeat here would significantly set back the loser as they enter the second third of the 2025 season. Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We got to win it. We got to win this game. We’ve got to get better in every aspect of this, and we’ve got to win in the fourth quarter.”
Dak Prescott vs. Dan Quinn’s Defense
A key storyline revolves around how Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott will distribute the football against Dan Quinn’s defense, especially with WR CeeDee Lamb back in the lineup. Prescott has been prolific in the games Lamb missed, throwing 10 touchdowns and no interceptions. George Pickens stepped up in Lamb’s absence, leading the league in receiving touchdowns.
Prescott emphasized the importance of trusting his teammates and executing the game plan. Both Lamb and Pickens are expected to play significant roles against a Commanders defense coordinated by Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr., who both have familiarity with many players from their time in Dallas. Quinn’s defense is known for its aggressive man coverage, which could lead to opportunities for the Cowboys’ talented receivers.
Jayden Daniels and Washington’s Rushing Attack vs. Dallas’ Ailing Defense
On the other side of the ball, the Commanders’ high-powered ground game, led by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, poses a significant threat to the Cowboys’ struggling defense. In Week 6, the Cowboys were gashed on the ground, allowing a former player to run wild. Dallas ranks among the league’s worst run defenses, allowing an average of 142.2 rushing yards per game. This is not ideal entering a matchup against Washington’s second-ranked rushing attack, which averages 151.0 rushing yards per game.
Cowboys defensive tackle Kenny Clark acknowledged the need for improvement in techniques and hand usage. Even if the Cowboys can tighten up against the run, they also need to contain Daniels’ passing ability, as Dallas ranks as the NFL’s worst passing defense, allowing 269.5 passing yards per game. The Cowboys’ defense faces a tough test in containing both the Commanders’ rushing and passing attacks.
Defensive Scheme Mismatch
A significant issue for Dallas is the adaptation to a new defensive scheme. Missed assignments have led to numerous explosive plays allowed, ranking them near the bottom of the league. The Cowboys are utilizing zone coverage at a high rate, a departure from the man coverage schemes favored by former coordinator Dan Quinn. This change has led to communication breakdowns and struggles in coverage, frustrating players and contributing to the defense’s overall struggles. With key players dealing with injuries, the Cowboys’ defense faces an uphill battle in implementing the new scheme and improving their performance.
Safety Donovan Wilson voiced his frustration with the defense’s performance, noting the prevalence of busted coverages and the lack of a clear identity. The statistics paint a grim picture of the Cowboys’ defensive woes, ranking near the bottom of the league in key categories such as points allowed, total yards allowed, and passing yards allowed.
Cowboys vs. Commanders Prediction
The absence of Terry McLaurin for Washington will provide a slight advantage to Dallas’ defense, potentially allowing them to secure a stop or two. With both Pickens and Lamb on the field, Prescott is expected to continue his strong offensive performance against the familiar Quinn/Whitt scheme. This offensive firepower should be enough for the Cowboys to narrowly escape with a victory.
Prediction: Cowboys 38, Commanders 35
Final Thoughts on Commanders vs. Cowboys
The Week 7 matchup between the Cowboys and Commanders promises to be a high-scoring and closely contested affair. Both teams are desperate for a win and have the offensive firepower to put points on the board. However, defensive struggles on both sides could ultimately determine the outcome. With key players missing due to injury and adjustments being made to defensive schemes, expect an unpredictable game with plenty of twists and turns. Ultimately, the Cowboys’ offensive firepower, combined with a few key defensive stops, should be enough to secure a narrow victory over their NFC East rivals.
Be sure to tune in on Sunday to catch all the action live. With playoff implications on the line and a compelling quarterback duel, this is a game that NFL fans won’t want to miss. Whether you’re cheering for the Cowboys or the Commanders, expect a hard-fought battle with plenty of excitement.
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