Betting preview for Seahawks at Cowboys 

The Dallas Cowboys are back in action for Week 13, gearing up for a crucial clash against the Seattle Seahawks after a brief break. This matchup marks their second consecutive Thursday game, having secured a victory over the Washington Commanders on Thanksgiving Day. Now, they face another Washington team – the Seahawks – in a high-stakes Thursday Night Football encounter.

Key contributors and team dynamics

While recent chatter around the Cowboys has centered on the standout performances of Dak Prescott and DaRon Bland, the team boasts a roster full of talent. Players like CeeDee Lamb, Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence, Tony Pollard, and coach Mike McCarthy have played pivotal roles. The Cowboys appear to be on track for the #5 seed in the NFC playoffs, but Pete Carroll's Seahawks are also in the wild card mix, determined to secure a favorable seeding.

Playoff Implications and Team Standings

The upcoming Thursday Night Football clash holds significant playoff implications for both teams in the NFC. The Cowboys, boasting an 8-3 record, presently lead the wildcard standings, whereas the Seahawks, with a 6-5 record, trail by two games but currently have secured the final playoff position. Both squads showcased their skills on Thanksgiving, with the Seahawks suffering a 31-13 defeat to the 49ers, while the Cowboys dominated the Commanders with a convincing 45-10 win.

Challenges for the Seahawks

The Seahawks find themselves clinging to their playoff hopes in the NFC, currently occupying the last spot. Yet, recent challenges have led to their defeat in three out of the last four games, including setbacks against opponents from the NFC West. Quarterback Geno Smith faced difficulties on Thanksgiving, managing just 15 yards in the first five possessions. Coach Pete Carroll acknowledged their early struggles, emphasizing the need to overcome obstacles. Even though Smith holds the 15th position in the NFL for total passing yards, he has experienced a downturn in the past two weeks, averaging 206.5 yards per game with a TD-INT ratio of 1-1. The Seahawks' offensive arsenal includes formidable targets like DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett, with rookie Jaxon Smith-Njigba showing notable progress. Adding to their offensive strength, Kenneth Walker II takes the lead as their primary running back.

Analytical Summary

In terms of statistics, the Seahawks hold the 20th spot in the NFL for scoring, averaging 20.8 points per game, and their defense is positioned at 22nd, allowing 22.6 points per game. Noteworthy achievements feature Bobby Wagner leading the team in tackles and Boye Mafe excelling in sacks with seven. The defense has successfully secured 15 takeaways, but the Seahawks are just +2 in turnover differential due to 13 turnovers by Smith and the offense.

Cowboys' Pursuit of a Playoff Berth

On the other side, the Dallas Cowboys, still chasing the NFC East-leading Philadelphia Eagles, are positioning themselves for a top wildcard berth. They’ve won five of their last 6 games, including a commanding win over Washington on Thanksgiving, while cornerback DaRon Bland has garnered attention by setting a record for the most pick-sixes in a season (5). Quarterback Dak Prescott, positioned at 6th in the NFL for total passing yards, has showcased remarkable form this season, boasting a notable 23 to 6 TD-INT ratio. Throughout a triumphant three-game streak, Prescott has averaged 308.0 yards per game, while maintaining an impressive 9-1 TD-INT ratio. CeeDee Lamb has recently crossed the 1,000-yard mark in receiving for the season, solidifying his role as Prescott's preferred target. The Cowboys lead the NFL in scoring, averaging 31.5 points per game and their defense stands at an impressive 4th place, allowing a mere 16.8 points per game. Key contributors to this success include linebacker Damone Clark and Micah Parsons, a dominant force in the backfield with 11.5 sacks.

High Stakes and Betting Trend

The upcoming game holds extra significance for the Cowboys, facing a Seahawks team vying for the same wildcard spots. With a challenging schedule ahead, including matchups against the Eagles, Bills, and Dolphins, the Cowboys are focused on securing a crucial win. For the Seahawks, Geno Smith's recent struggles raise concerns, and the Cowboys' potent passing attack poses a challenge to their 22nd-ranked pass defense.

In terms of betting trends, the Cowboys have an 8-3-0 record against the spread (ATS) this season. As favorites of 9.5 points or more, they are 3-1 against the spread. Additionally, seven of Dallas' 11 games have gone over the closing total points. On the Seahawks' side, their record against the spread in 2023 is 5-6-0, and five of their 11 games this year have also gone over the total.

Injury Concerns and Practice Updates

As the game approaches, the Seahawks face injury concerns, with five players missing practice, including key offensive players. Running back Kenneth Walker III, wide receiver Dareke Young, guard Phil Haynes, tight end Will Dissly, and defensive end Leonard Williams have been absent from practice. Walker's status remains uncertain, potentially leaving rookie Zach Charbonnet as the lead back for the second consecutive week. Tackle Abraham Lucas, aiming to return after being out since Week 1, was limited in practice.

The Cowboys have several players not participating in practice due to various reasons, including illness and rest. Notable names include DE Dante Fowler Jr., G Zack Martin, T Tyron Smith, and LB Tyrus Wheat. However, the team had limited and full participation from other players, indicating a mixed injury report.

Seahawks at Cowboys Betting Odds (provided by BetAnySports.eu)

Spread: Seahawks +9.5 (-110) / Cowboys -9.5 (-110)
Money line: Seahawks +375 / Cowboys -475

The upcoming Thursday Night Football matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and the Seattle Seahawks carries significant playoff implications for both teams. The Cowboys aim to solidify their wildcard position, while the Seahawks seek to improve their standing in the highly competitive NFC. As the teams prepare for this crucial clash, injury concerns and recent performance trends add layers of complexity to the anticipated showdown. Fans can expect a high-stakes game with both teams eager to make a statement as the playoff race intensifies in the NFC.

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