'MNF' preview: Will Cowboys regain momentum against Chargers?

The Dallas Cowboys (3-2) aim to rebound after a humbling Week 5 loss as they travel to face the Los Angeles Chargers (2-2) on "Monday Night Football." Here's what to watch for each team. 

When the Cowboys are on offense

QB Dak Prescott eyeing resurgent performance:  Last season's NFL leader in interceptions came into 2023 vowing that he wouldn't throw 10 picks this year. While Prescott's declaration looked promising to start the season, his three-interception performance in Dallas' 42-10 loss to San Francisco last Sunday has significantly diminished his chances to accomplish his goal, as well as drawn more criticism his way. Although the Chargers should be re-energized coming out of their bye week, they provide an excellent opportunity for Prescott to bounce back since they allow the most passing yards per game (329.3).

Will WR CeeDee Lamb get back in sync with Prescott?: The best way Prescott can turn things around is by getting Lamb more involved. The star wideout caught four passes for 49 yards against San Francisco and was visibly frustrated throughout the game, but has since told reporters that he's ready to move forward after some self-reflection and a conversation with Prescott. 

"At the end of the day, it's just getting down to the nitty gritty, getting everything understood and both parts being on the same page," Lamb said via ESPN's Todd Archer. "Me and Dak, we did that, first day back, so we could have all week, fresh slate to get after it."

Can RB Tony Pollard return to form?: Pollard's first season as Dallas' featured back has been met with mixed results. Over the last two weeks, he has averaged 38 rushing yards on 2.0 yards per carry, though the fact that both games were blowouts affected the game script. Even though Los Angeles has a middle-of-the-road run defense, allowing 104.3 rushing yards per game, Pollard could turn in another underwhelming performance if the Cowboys are faced with an early deficit. 

Chargers defense gets a boost: After missing Week 4's win over Las Vegas with a hamstring injury, Los Angeles' top defender, Derwin James, will play on Monday. The All-Pro safety is one of the most versatile players in the league, lining up at six different positions so far this season and his performance, in particular, could swing this game's outcome.

Additionally, Pro Bowl defensive end Joey Bosa is listed as questionable after toe and hamstring injuries kept him out of the last game. Considering Bosa practiced on Saturday, it appears his availability is trending in the right direction. 

When the Chargers are on offense

OC Kellen Moore's revenge game: The 35-year-old offensive coordinator will face the Cowboys for the first time since mutually parting ways during the offseason after spending the last eight seasons as a player and coach. As Dallas OC, Moore helped the Cowboys finish in the top six in scoring during three of his four seasons in that role. Moore's first year with the Chargers is off to an impressive start, with the team averaging the fourth-most yards (388.8) and sixth-most points per game (27.5).  

RB Austin Ekeler’s return: The Chargers offense is also welcoming back a key contributor in Ekeler, who is set to return to action after suffering an ankle injury during their season-opening loss to the Miami Dolphins. In that game, Ekeler racked up 164 all-purpose yards, along with one touchdown. Since he's been sidelined, Los Angeles has been virtually one-dimensional, averaging 82 rushing yards over the last three games while attempting an average of 37.7 passes per game, the fifth-most in the NFL. 

Who steps into LB Leighton Vander Esch's role?: The Cowboys defense was dealt another devastating blow, as Vander Esch landed on injured reserve this week after suffering a fourth-quarter neck injury against the 49ers. Second-year linebacker Damone Clark is expected to handle the bulk of Vander Esch's responsibilities, and the LSU product could make a big impact in an expanded role, given that his 31 tackles lead the Cowboys this season. Dallas could also see Rashaan Evans, a former first-round pick who signed with the team this week, receive some playing time.

Don't expect LB Micah Parsons to remain silent: According to OddsChecker, Parsons is listed as the favorite to take home the Defensive Player of the Year Award (+225), but he must deliver a stellar outing if he wants to maintain his early lead. Despite having four sacks on the season, Parsons hasn't been too productive over his last two games, recording six total tackles and failing to register a sack or QB hit.

There's no question that it'll be difficult to take down Chargers QB Justin Herbert, with Los Angeles surrendering roughly 2.3 sacks per game. If Parsons shines and guides the undermanned Cowboys defense to a dominant showing, though, it could be a statement game for his DPOY bid.