When the clock reads 3:30 p.m. today, the Dallas Cowboys (7-3) will battle the New York Giants (7-3) in an NFC East Thanksgiving Clash. In this game, both teams likely know how important a victory is since the result impacts the NFC Wild Card race.
On the Cowboys' side, they have several questionable players — and have three players likely out. Those three are all on defense.
And while that may sound like a problem, the Cowboys' defense should be fine and dandy, as their star players are ready to go.
Shifting to the Giants, their injuries are a MASSIVE problem. With seven players out and fives player questionable — things may get ugly quickly for them.
Let's take a look at which players are in or out.
Dallas Cowboys
As mentioned, the Boys likely have a total of three players out. According to Dallas Cowboys writer Patrik Walker, the team will be missing LB Anthony Barr. DE Tarell Basham and DT Johnathan Hankins are doubtful with illnesses.
With Barr out, expect LB Damone Clark to take his place, which should be fine. However, with Hankins missing, you could see some explosive plays happen in the run game because of their absences.
The players who are questionable include DE Dante Fowler, DT Neville Gallimore, CB Kelvin Joseph, DE Demarcus Lawrence, DT Osa Odighizuwa, LB Micah Parsons, and S Donovan Wilson.
Only Lawrence and Parsons were recently reported as active — but that doesn't mean the others are inactive.
Expect more updates as we get closer to game time.
New York Giants
On the Giants' side, their injuries may be the major reason why they potentially drop this game. According to Dan Salomone, managing editor of Giants.com, the team will be missing seven players.
Those include TE Daniel Bellinger, offensive linemen Josh Ezeudu, Jon Feliciano, Shane Lemieux, Evan Neal, CB Adoree' Jackson, and CB Fabian Moreau.
Their absences mean the Giants will be without their starting tight end, three starting linemen, and two starting corners. Add that they have five questionable players, things could get worse for them.
Those include S Dane Belton, WR Richie James, T Tyre Phillips, DB Pinnock, and T Andrew Thomas.
Injury Impact
Overall, the injuries affect the Giants more. If I had to pinpoint their biggest weakness, it's their offensive line. The Cowboys defensive line should have their way with the Giants and it may be a sack party.
The one thing to watch for on the Cowboys' side is the absence of Hankins. It's a well-known fact that running back Saquon Barkley is a all-world talent, and they need all the bodies to stop him.
Despite all the football talk, I want to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. And as a reminder be thankful for your loved ones — but also be thankful to be a Cowboys fan.
