Showdown between two Texas teams the Dallas Cowboys and the Houston Texans The 2024 NFL season promises to be an exciting year, and one of the most anticipated matchups. This in-state rivalry, while not as storied as some of the league's other divisional rivalries, has nonetheless gained importance in recent years, particularly as both franchises look to carve out their respective places in the postseason picture.
In this article, we’ll break down what fans can expect from the Cowboys vs. Texans game in 2024, including team outlooks, key players to watch, and what’s at stake for both teams.
Dallas Cowboys (2024 Outlook)
The Dallas Cowboys, one of the NFL's most high-profile teams, are entering the 2024 season with expectations of a deep playoff run, especially after a competitive 2023 season that saw them make it to the NFC Divisional Round. Head coach Mike McCarthy, entering his fourth year with the Cowboys, has overseen a team that has been consistently strong on defense, but the offense remains the key to their ultimate success.
Key Players:
- Dak Prescott (QB): Prescott enters 2024 with a mission to prove he can lead Dallas to a Super Bowl. After a rollercoaster 2023 campaign, Prescott will need to stay healthy and continue improving his decision-making, especially in big games.
- Micah Parsons (OLB): One of the most disruptive defensive players in the NFL, Parsons will be a key figure against the Texans' offensive line. His ability to rush the passer and cover in space makes him a game-wrecking force.
- CeeDee Lamb (WR): Lamb is now the focal point of the Cowboys' passing attack and is expected to take on more responsibility as a true No. 1 wide receiver.
Offensive Key: The Cowboys’ success will largely depend on the performance of their offensive line and their ability to balance the passing and running game. Tony Pollard, now the full-time starter after Ezekiel Elliott’s departure, is expected to take on a larger workload in 2024.
Defensive Key: Dallas has one of the league's most formidable defenses, anchored by Micah Parsons, Trevon Diggs, and DeMarcus Lawrence. If they can maintain their defensive dominance while avoiding injuries, this unit could be the driving force behind a Super Bowl run.
Houston Texans (2024 Outlook)
The Houston Texans, long in a rebuilding phase, are entering 2024 with newfound optimism. After a promising 2023 season under rookie head coach DeMeco Ryans, the Texans have begun to develop a strong identity. Ryans, a former linebacker and defensive coordinator with the San Francisco 49ers, has instilled a defensive-first mentality that has begun to take shape.
Key Players:
- C.J. Stroud (QB): The Texans' top pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Stroud showed flashes of brilliance in his rookie season. In 2024, he’ll be expected to take a significant step forward, leading the offense and showing that he can be the franchise quarterback.
- Will Anderson Jr. (OLB): Another highly-touted 2023 draft pick, Anderson is poised to be a game-changer on the defensive side of the ball. His edge-rushing ability will be key to pressuring opposing quarterbacks.
- Dameon Pierce (RB): Pierce is a hard-running, physical back who could serve as the workhorse for the offense. If the Texans can get the ground game going, it will take some pressure off Stroud’s shoulders.
Offensive Key: The Texans' offense in 2024 will likely be a work in progress. C.J. Stroud’s development is crucial, but they also need their wide receivers and offensive line to perform at a higher level. Houston’s receiving corps has added some talent, but there are still questions about whether it’s enough to give Stroud the weapons he needs to succeed.
Defensive Key: Under DeMeco Ryans, the Texans' defense should be much improved in 2024. With playmakers like Will Anderson Jr. and a secondary led by veterans like Derek Stingley Jr., the Texans have the pieces to build a formidable defense, which could be a key factor in keeping them competitive in games.
Key Matchups: Cowboys vs. Texans 2024
When these two teams square off in 2024, several individual and team matchups will be critical in determining the outcome.
Micah Parsons vs. C.J. Stroud
Arguably the most intriguing individual matchup will be between Dallas' star linebacker Micah Parsons and Houston's young quarterback C.J. Stroud. Parsons, who is capable of lining up anywhere on the defense, will look to pressure Stroud into mistakes, forcing him to make hurried throws and limiting his ability to operate from the pocket. For Stroud, this will be an early test of his poise under pressure against one of the league’s top pass rushers.
Stroud will need to rely on his quick release and good decision-making to avoid sacks and turnovers. How he handles Parsons’ pressure will be a key storyline.
Dallas Offensive Line vs. Houston Defensive Front
The Cowboys’ offensive line, despite some aging pieces, is still a strong unit, particularly in run-blocking. However, the Texans' defensive front, led by rookie pass rusher Will Anderson Jr. and veteran linebacker Denzel Perryman, has the potential to cause havoc. Anderson’s ability to disrupt the pocket and set the edge against the run could make this a tough day for the Cowboys’ offense, especially if they can force Dallas into long third downs.
On the flip side, the Cowboys will need to establish a strong run game to control the clock and keep Stroud and the Texans’ offense off the field. Pollard will need to find success running between the tackles while also being a factor in the passing game.
CeeDee Lamb vs. Texans Secondary
CeeDee Lamb is one of the top wide receivers in the NFL and could have a significant edge against the Texans' secondary, which is still in the process of developing. While Derek Stingley Jr. shows promise, Lamb’s combination of size, speed, and route-running precision makes him a tough matchup for any cornerback. If Prescott is able to connect with Lamb on deep shots or intermediate routes, the Texans’ defense could struggle to keep up.
What’s at Stake for Both Teams?
Dallas Cowboys
For the Cowboys, the 2024 season is about proving they are legitimate Super Bowl contenders. With a roster that is capable of competing for a championship, they cannot afford to slip up against teams they are expected to beat. A win over the Texans would be important for maintaining momentum, particularly as they compete in a highly competitive NFC East.
- Playoff Implications: The Cowboys need to win games like this to stay in contention for the NFC's top playoff spots, especially given the strength of teams like the Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco 49ers, and others. Every win counts in securing a favorable playoff position.
Houston Texans
For the Texans, the 2024 season is another step in their rebuilding process. While they are not yet expected to compete for a playoff spot, taking down a team like the Cowboys would be a statement win. For a team that is developing under a first-year head coach and a young quarterback, victories over high-profile teams can build confidence and help accelerate their growth.
- Developmental Milestones: Houston is focused on the development of C.J. Stroud and the younger players. A competitive showing or an upset win against Dallas would show that the Texans are making strides in their rebuild.
Conclusion
The 2024 Cowboys vs. Texans game will be an exciting, high-stakes matchup, with each team having its own motivations for coming out on top. Dallas is aiming to solidify its place as a legitimate Super Bowl contender, while the Texans are focused on growth and development under new leadership. Expect fireworks, particularly as the young Texans look to challenge the established powerhouse that is the Dallas Cowboys.
As both teams continue to evolve, the 2024 iteration of this in-state rivalry promises to be an intriguing and entertaining chapter in Texas football history.
