Key Matchups: Cowboys look to keep Jets grounded

Interior OL vs DT Quinnen Williams

The Cowboys offensive line depth is being pushed to its absolute limit, and there may not be a tougher test to face in that condition than Quinnen Williams.

The All-Pro defensive tackle is a game-wrecker in every sense, capable of singlehandedly derailing drives and collapsing pockets from the inside out.

With LT Tyler Guyton and LG Tyler Smith both nursing injuries, Dallas could roll into Sunday with a makeshift interior featuring LG Trevor Keegan, C Brock Hoffman, and RG T.J. Bass; all backups with limited experience together.

That trio will be tasked with keeping Williams from wreaking havoc in Dak Prescotts face.

If they cant hold up, the Cowboys offense could sputter before it even gets started.

Expect Dallas to counter with quick passes, double teams, and perhaps increased usage of running back Javonte Williams in pass protection.

Make no mistake, how well the interior line handles Quinnen Williams could determine whether the Cowboys control the game or spend the afternoon on their heels.

LT vs Jermaine Johnson

Whether its Nate Thomas or a recovering Tyler Guyton manning the blindside, this matchup looms large.

The Jets young pass rusher Jermaine Johnson has developed into one of the AFCs rising edge defenders, combining strength and burst to pressure quarterbacks relentlessly.

Thomas has shown flashes of potential but remains raw in pass protection, while Guyton (if cleared from concussion protocol) is still learning the nuances of the pro game.

Protecting Prescotts blindside will be essential, especially with the offensive line already vulnerable on the interior.

Expect the Cowboys to give their left tackle help with chip blocks from tight ends or backs.

Johnsons ability to collapse the pocket and force hurried throws could tilt the game in New Yorks favor, so Dallas must find a way to neutralize his impact.

Cowboys LBs vs Justin Fields

When Justin Fields takes off running, defenses scramble.

The Jets dual-threat quarterback has rushed for at least 48 yards in each of his three starts this season, and Dallas has already struggled to contain mobile passers like Jalen Hurts and Caleb Williams.

Containing Fields will come down to discipline and pursuit.

Linebackers must stay patient in zone coverage, keeping eyes locked on Fields and reacting when he breaks contain.

Marist Liufaus speed makes him a logical candidate to spy the quarterback, but DC Matt Eberflus will need to mix his looks to avoid predictability.

If the Cowboys can force Fields to win from the pocket rather than with his legs, theyll be in good shape, but if he escapes and extends plays, the defense could be in for another long afternoon.