Denver Broncos vs. Dallas Cowboys: Five Keys To Victory

Peyton Manning (18) in the huddle during the second quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. (Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports)

The Denver Broncos haven’t lost to the Dallas Cowboys since 1995. To keep that streak alive, we’re offering our weekly five keys to a Broncos victory.

1. Keep the Man(ning) Protected

The Cowboys are 4th in sacks, and have one of the best pass rushers in the league on their team in DeMarcus Ware. Protection will be key in an enclosed stadium where it’s going to be very loud when the Broncos are on offense. The offensive line has done a great job thus far only allowing Manning to be sacked five times.

2. Keep DeMarco Murray and the Boys Running Game in Check

If the Cowboys have learned anything from past games, they’ll realize that their largest margin of victory came against the Rams, and they rushed for 193 yards in that game. If they can get their ground game going and keep Manning off the field, it’s feasible that Dallas could pull this one off. The Broncos are still ranked No. 1 in run defense, but they gave up 166 yards last week to the Eagles. Stuffing the run make Tony Romo one dimensional, and if that happens, good things will come for the Broncos.

3. Start Fast, Finish Strong

If the Broncos can get the air attack off the ground right away and develop a big lead, they’ll be able to run the ball more in the second half. The Cowboys are tied with the Giants and Vikings for worst team in the league when it comes to touchdowns allowed. A moving clock is always a good thing with a big lead.

4. Contain Bryant and Witten

Dez Bryant and Jason Witten are Romo’s go-to guys. Those two have combined for 69 receptions for 474 yards and six touchdowns. Nearly 50% of all of Dallas’ first downs this season have come from Bryant and Witten. The team will need help from its linebackers to play physical with these guys. Safety help is also extremely important. They’re going to get their catches. The key is stopping those yards after the catch.

5. Ignore the Circus

Jerry’s World is a circus and this is the first time the team has played in the new stadium during the regular season. As Champ Bailey said earlier this week, look around before the game, but once the game begins, ignore your surroundings.

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