Brett's Cowboys Corner

Nothing says Thanksgiving more than Cowboys football.

A tradition that dates back to the 1960s with the Cowboys first GM Tex Schramm volunteering to have the Cowboys host a Thanksgiving game, something at the time no team wanted to do. As long as the Cowboys could always host, and get that prime-time slot every year. Now the NFL has expanded to 3 games on Thanksgiving and even a game on Black Friday.

It’s a tradition like no other, the Cowboys will wear their iconic throwback uniforms and have Lainey Wilson performing at halftime, as they always do a big half time show which also features America’s Sweethearts – Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.

With all the glitz and glam, and of course stuffing your face with turkey, mashed potatoes and other great dishes, you almost forget that there is an actual game to be played!

And truly nothing more exciting than Tommy DeVito vs. Cooper Rush. What a treat.

The Cowboys have won their last two Thanksgiving games, and generally do a lot better against NFC East opponents than anyone else on this day. The Cowboys beat the Giants in 2022 on turkey day, and they will hopefully have a repeat performance as they are looking for their first home win of the year.

• Cooks is making his return, as he just missed the week 4 matchup against NY and hasn’t played in a game since. The Cowboys didn’t have a receiver core for many weeks.
• Bass is really playing for a 2025 job right now. He needs to continue to have better weeks and just continue his development. With the doubts of Zack Martin coming back, TJ Bass is trying to be the starting RG.
• Schoonmaker suprised a lot of people last week, and with Ferguson still out. Schoonmaker is in a mode of proving himself as well, this will help his 2025 campaign.

• Tracy has been a killer at forcing missed tackles, 17% rate. He didn’t have his best performance week 4, and is looking for a make up in Dallas.
• Banks drew the matchup with Ceedee Lamb in week 4, and will usually follow the outside receiver throughout the game. He will likely see the ball come his way often, needs to be ready for the hook routes.
• Dexter has racked up tons of pressures and may be going against two back up guards. One of the biggest challenges on this Giants defense.

1 – Be The Better Team.

Both these teams are dealing with injuries. On paper you are still a better team than the Giants. You have to show that Thursday.

Unlike last week, you need less turnovers, you need to have better special teams plays. No blocked FGs or punts.

Record wise, team wise and historically you are a better team than the Giants. This should be a very winnable game. Though playing at AT&T Stadium has been tough for them.

2 – Keep Nabers Under Control.

Malik Nabers has recorded the 3rd-highest team air yards share (41.3%) this season despite having played in just 8 of a possible 11 games. His 67 receptions are the most through a player’s first 9 career games since 1970.

He is having a historic run as a rookie, and will be looking to make a big impact in a rivalry he wants to be apart of. He left the last contest with a concussion.

Malik Nabers finished with 12 receptions for 115 yards on 15 targets, including 9 receptions on 10 targets after going in motion pre-snap in Week 4 against the Cowboys.

3 – Pressure The QB.

It could be DeVito or it could be Lock. Regardless the Cowboys need to make them uneasy, the defensive ends need to get to the quarterback and make them make poor decisions downfield. Especially with a ball hawk like DaRon Bland returning to the lineup.

Micah Parsons has made a huge impact since his return, and playing against two back up tackles, he will likely do some more of that this week.

4 – Keep Feeding Turp.

KaVontae Turpin has been a true playmaker for the Cowboys, as a receiver and a return specialist. It is in best interest for the team to keep feeding him. As we have seen some amazing plays from Turpin over the past few weeks.

Per NextGenStats, Turpin holds 3 spots in the top 20 fastest plays this season. A 22.36 mph, slant touchdown registered as the fastest play this year. As well as, a 11 ranked 21.64 mph and a 18 ranked 21.35 mph return TDs.

Lets just cheer for some clean and fun football.