Cowboys, Panthers Receive Concerning Update Ahead of Sunday's Game

Sunday’s showdown will be a good test for both sides. The Cowboys have found a rhythm on offense over the past couple of games and will look to build on that momentum against a Panthers side that has yet to taste defeat at home this season.

Both teams, however, are likely facing an external factor that could significantly impact the style of play in this highly anticipated matchup — one that is beyond anybody’s control. This comes in the form of a concerning weather forecast ahead of Sunday’s 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff in Charlotte.

Meteorologist Kevin Roth of Roto Grinders presented a somewhat troubling development for both the Cowboys and the Panthers. According to the forecast, there is already an orange weather alert for Sunday’s game.

“Winds and overall impact are trending up here,” the report read. “There will be some scattered showers, though for now high-res models are trending more dry than wet during the game.

“Of greater note is that winds look to be nearing 20mph sustained, pushing gusts up to 35mph. That is a significant downgrade to kicking and passing (especially deep throws), and is a bump down to both offenses in general.”

While this update does not necessarily put the game in danger of being called off, it is a meaningful update nonetheless. As the report indicates, it can significantly impact how both teams approach this game offensively.

Both Prescott and Panthers QB Bryce Young may face limitations on their vertical routes. The strong winds could limit the passing game, with both teams possibly leaning more toward the run. Guys like Javonte Williams for Dallas and Rico Dowdle for Carolina, who will be facing his former team for the first time since leaving the Cowboys in the offseason via free agency, could see more action with both teams potentially relying on their respective running games.

The strong winds could also make kicking dicey in this one. Long field goals, extra points and even punts could become unpredictable.

Dallas has already proven this season that it is capable of winning ugly with its defense and efficient mid-range passing, which is why a weather-slowed game could tilt the advantage slightly in its favor. The Panthers, however, are playing at home and will have the crowd behind them throughout the contest.

Either way, it will be worth monitoring any further weather updates for this Week 6 matchup, especially if conditions worsen approaching kickoff.