NFL · October 26, 2025
Dallas Cowboys @ Denver Broncos
Free LineCrush game report for Dallas Cowboys @ Denver Broncos on October 26, 2025, with matchup analysis and pick ideas generated for the daily slate. Reports can update as lineups, injuries, and odds develop, so confirm time-sensitive details before acting.
Matchup Analysis
Cowboys Secondary Crisis Reaches Critical Point
Dallas is severely depleted in the secondary with Trevon Diggs on injured reserve due to concussion, Donovan Wilson ruled out, and Juanyeh Thomas inactive with migraine issues affecting his vision. This leaves the Cowboys extremely vulnerable against Denver's receiving corps, particularly Courtland Sutton, who has 33 catches and 469 yards this season.
Denver's Health Advantage Is Decisive
The Broncos enter Week 8 relatively healthy with no players ruled out due to injury. Key edge rusher Jonah Elliss returns after missing two games with a shoulder injury, while offensive tackle Mike McGlinchey was a full practice participant despite dealing with foot and ankle issues.
Bo Nix's Vertical Game Remains Unreliable
Bo Nix ranks 25th in 20+ yard passing attempts with only a 24% completion rate and 28th in yards per attempt on vertical shots. Denver loses yards per attempt when attempting deep passes, presenting an opportunity for Dallas' battered secondary to avoid getting burned downfield.
Cowboys Run Defense Must Contain JK Dobbins
Dallas ranks 30th in rushing yards allowed and 26th in yards per carry this season. Dobbins averages 5 yards per carry for Denver, and the Cowboys' weak run defense could allow the Broncos to establish their ground game and control the pace.
Dak Prescott's Blitz Management Under Scrutiny
Prescott ranks 7th in completion percentage against the blitz and 5th in completion percentage over expected (CPOE), but Denver blitzes at a decent rate. With secondary injuries limiting Dallas' defensive options, Prescott will face pressure to manage the pocket effectively.
Cowboys Offensive Line Fragility
Dallas has multiple offensive line concerns with Tyler Guyton questionable at tackle, potentially forcing Nate Thomas into the starting lineup. This uncertainty could compromise both pass protection for Prescott and the efficiency of Dallas' rushing attack.
Osa Odighizuwa's Impact Inconsistent
While expected to anchor Dallas' defensive line, Odighizuwa hasn't delivered consistent pass rush pressure this season. Denver's interior offensive line weakness presents an opportunity, but he must elevate his performance against a vulnerable opponent.
Lamb and Pickens Face Manageable Coverage
CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens normally create matchup nightmares against Patrick Surtain and Riley Moss, but Dallas' secondary injuries could force conservative play-calling that limits the Cowboys' offensive explosiveness.
Pick Ideas
Denver -2.5 or Better
Denver's health advantage combined with Dallas' secondary decimation (Diggs on IR, Wilson and Thomas out) makes the Broncos a strong underdog value at home with favorable matchups throughout the roster.
JK Dobbins Over Rushing Yards
Dobbins averages 5 yards per carry against a Cowboys run defense ranked 30th in yards allowed; expect a productive ground attack from Denver's featured back.
Courtland Sutton Anytime Touchdown
With Trevon Diggs on injured reserve and the Cowboys secondary depleted across the board, Sutton should enjoy favorable single and two-deep coverage opportunities.
Under Total Points
Dallas' secondary injuries and depleted roster likely force a more conservative offensive approach, while Denver's run-heavy attack keeps the game methodical and lower-scoring.
Bo Nix Under Passing Yards
Nix ranks 15th in passing yards and 23rd in yards per attempt this season; Denver should lean heavily on their 5-yards-per-carry rushing attack rather than testing Dallas' makeshift secondary.
Denver Team Total Over
The Broncos' health advantage and Dallas' 30th-ranked run defense should allow Denver to control possession, establish the ground game, and accumulate scoring opportunities throughout the game.