To understand the 2023 NFC Divisional Round matchup between the Cowboys and 49ers, it’s important to have an in-depth knowledge of both teams. Analyze each team’s strengths and weaknesses to help predict who will emerge victorious. Look out for offensive prowess, defensive strategies, and experienced leadership on both sides, which can make all the difference when these teams meet on the gridiron!
This year, the Cowboys boast one of the league’s best offenses, led by quarterback Dak Prescott. Their deep receiving corps consists of the talented CeeDee Lamb, Michael Gallup, and Noah Brown, who were all instrumental in Dallas clinching their second-straight playoff berth. Second-year linebacker Micah Parsons will be a crucial component on defense, as he recorded 13.5 sacks last season. The 49ers, on the other hand, have one of the best rosters from top to bottom in football, featuring stars like Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk, George Kittle, and Christian McCaffrey.
Defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans have developed an aggressive approach to their strategy, which could prove problematic for opposing teams such as Dallas. However, rookie quarterback Brock Purdy has been the biggest game-changer for the Niners this season. Since taking over for Jimmy Garropolo in Week 13, the 49ers have been undefeated with “Mr. Irrevelavant” under center. He finished the season with 1,374 passing yards and 13 touchdowns against four interceptions.
As they take the field on January 20, 2023, both teams come locked and loaded. The key question is which team will be better equipped to succeed in the postseason. Dallas has a formidable offensive line that could present challenges for San Francisco’s defense, while their depth at receiver will help them stretch the field against an aggressive Niners defense.
On the other hand, San Francisco can lean on a well-rounded attack led by McCaffrey and Samuel. Additionally, with seven games of experience under Purdy’s belt, it stands to reason that he could make an impact when it matters most come playoff time. In the end, this NFC Divisional battle between the Cowboys and 49ers will likely be decided based on who has better command over their strengths and weaknesses.
Cowboys Keys to Victory
For Dallas to succeed against San Francisco, they must make sound decisions on both sides of the football. The Niners’ offense clicks best when the running attack can control the game flow. It opens up so many opportunities for them to cripple an opposing defense. The Cowboys’ defense must always account for players such as McCaffrey, Samuel, Kittle, and Aiyuk.
At any given time, each player can put together explosive drives. If Dan Quinn’s defense can neutralize the impact of what San Francisco’s weapons can do, it will put the game in the hands of Purdy to win.
Despite all of the accolades this season, the rookie quarterback has yet to show that he can win a game based solely on his attributes.
Regarding the offense, Dak Prescott must have another solid outing similar to what we saw against the Buccaneers in the wild-card round. The performance was Prescott’s best of his career. He torched the Bucs by completing 25 35 passes for 305 yards and four touchdowns. Will Prescott come down to earth against the 49ers? It’s highly possible. However, he must not turn the football over to give the Cowboys the best chance of winning.
49ers Keys to Victory
The 49ers continue to succeed as a football team regardless of who is in the quarterback position. They have gone 7-0 since the season-ending injury to Garoppolo. From a historical viewpoint, the 49ers are no strangers to the Cowboys. Since 1971, San Francisco and Dallas have played each other eight times in the postseason. Currently, the Cowboys lead the series 5-3 over the 49ers. As for Sunday’s game, the 49ers must continue to do what they have done all season: successfully deploy their wide cast of weapons.
The offense was already potent on paper, but the addition of Christian McCaffrey put the unit on a different level. To get the best usage out of stars such as McCaffrey and Samuel, Purdy will have to account for where Parsons is at all times. The All-Pro linebacker is known to make plays that have swung the momentum in the Cowboys’ favor. San Francisco must prevent that from happening this Sunday. A few costly turnovers can put a defense in a bind regardless of how elite they are.
Score Prediction
While everything points toward San Francisco winning this game at home, that will not be the case. The game will be added as another chapter to an already intense rivalry. Last Monday’s win against Tampa was significant for Prescott’s legacy. When the Cowboys defeat the Niners on Sunday, it will only add to it. The Cowboys win by three.
Cowboys 31, 49ers 28
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