After having a relatively healthy roster for the first time this season against the Detroit Lions last week, the Dallas Cowboys have several players on the injury report and one notable starter who's missing today's game against the Chicago Bears.
While it's not ideal to have multiple players on the injury report, it's encouraging that some are “expected to play,” according to media reports. (Check out who those guys are below.)
Dallas Cowboys
Starting with the one notable starter that will miss today's clash with the Bears, it's running back Ezekiel Elliott. Although listed as doubtful during the week, there was hope that he could suit up. But after learning the severity of the knee sprain he suffered last week against the Lions, the Cowboys are holding him out.
With the bye next week, it's better to preserve Elliott for the long run.
Shifting to the other players on the injury report, here are the guys that carry injury designations:
- WR Noah Brown (foot)– OUT
- S Malik Hooker (hamstring)– OUT
- LB Micah Parsons (shoulder)– Was questionable– but expected to play
- TE Dalton Schultz (knee)– Was questionable– but expected to play
- T Terrence Steele (neck)– Questionable
- DE Sam Williams (knee)–OUT
As mentioned above, it's not ideal to have several players across the board injured — especially when they're starters. However, according to NFL reporter Ian Rapport, Parsons and Schultz are expected to suit up for the Boys.
Also, expect rookie linebacker Damone Clark to make his debut. Clark began his NFL career injured, but it's encouraging to see him get snaps this season, as many people speculated he wouldn't see the field until next year.
Chicago Bears
On the Bears' side, they will only be missing two players. Two offensive linemen, to be specific. Starting RT Larry Borom will miss this week as he recovers from a concussion, and center Lucas Patrick got shifted to the IR for a toe injury.
With a healthy team, expect the Bears to come in Jerry World full of energy after beating the New England Patriots last week. Also, with no key players missing, this game could be closer than people think.
Despite their record, the Bears only allow 185.1 passing yards per game, which ranks Top 3 in the league. On the flip side, they rank near the bottom of the NFL in rushing yards allowed per game. But without Elliott and Brown (who have been vital pieces to the offense), there could be some hiccups on the Cowboys' offensive drives.
Add in that the Bears have the best-run game in the NFL and have a mobile quarterback, this game could spell trouble for the Cowboys' defense, as they have been average at defending the run. So, my advice is: Don't expect a blowout.
