Free Pick: Dallas (4-1) at New England (2-3) 10/17/21

On paper, this game doesn’t look like much, but the Cowboys are 0-6 against the Patriots in their most recent games. Dallas is playing extremely well on offense and they are much more explosive than New England. Let’s see if the Patriots have a chance.

QUARTERBACKS: Dak Prescott may be playing better than anybody in the NFL after 5 games. He has completed 163 out of 267 passes for 1368 yards and 13 touchdowns for the Cowboys. Rookie New England quarterback, Mac Jones has played well and has thrown for 1243 yards and is completing 71% of his passes. He has thrown 5 interceptions and three of them game in one game. Advantage: Dallas

RUNNING BACKS: Ezekiel Elliott (85 carries for 432 yards and 5 touchdowns) and Tony Pollard (51 for 325) are a great one-two punch for Dallas. New England is struggling running the ball and are led by Damien Harris with 230 yards. Advantage: Dallas

RECEIVERS: Dallas has three guys who have been productive. Dalton Schultz (26 catches for 280 yards), Amari Cooper (25 for 318), and CeeDee Lamb (24 for 348). That trio has accounted for 9 touchdowns. The Patriots have Jakobi Meyers and Hunter Henry who have combined for 51 receptions for 518 yards. Advantage: Dallas

DEFENSE: How far the Cowboys are able to go in 2021 depends on their defense. They are playing much better, especially against the run, as teams are rushing for only 94 yards per game. Teams are throwing the ball on them for 311 yards through the air so that is a big concern. On the other hand, the Patriots have been solid and are holding teams to 317 total yards per game. They will get a big test on Sunday. Advantage: New England

When you analyze the two teams, it is difficult to see Dallas losing this one. They are a much better team than New England and are explosive on offense. The Patriots have had trouble scoring, and it would appear that they are going to have to be able to score in the mid 20’s, in order to have a chance. Two weeks ago they were in a similar situation against Tampa Bay and held Tom Brady and the Bucs to 19 points. Dallas is a 4-point favorite.

DUDES WHO BET SPORTS PICK: Dallas -4