5 Bold Predictions: Minnesota Vikings vs. Dallas Cowboys – Week 11
By Chris Schad
Minnesota will sack Prescott at least five times
It’s not just the Vikings’ offensive line who should be worried about this matchup. The Cowboys’ offensive line has done an admirable job protecting Dak Prescott, as his 28.9 percent pressure rate is the 10th lowest in the NFL. But the Vikings’ pass rush has been improving and could spell trouble for Dallas on Sunday.
Za’Darius Smith has been a brilliant addition as he continues to lead the NFC with eight sacks this season. Danielle Hunter has also started to turn it on with three sacks in his past two games. Together, they’ve helped the Vikings register a 40 percent or higher pressure rate in four of their past five games and could be walking into a prime matchup on Sunday.
The Cowboys’ offensive line ranks 13th on PFF’s rankings ahead of Week 11, and Zack Martin was the only offensive lineman that didn’t give up multiple pressures against the Packers. With Connor McGovern struggling at guard, it provides a gateway to get to Prescott and throw under pressure.
This will be key for a secondary that remains without Cameron Dantzler and has Akayleb Evans in the concussion protocol. If they can get to Prescott, it should be an easier day for the Vikings’ defense.