Dallas Cowboys vs. New York Giants: What to Watch for and Game Predictions

Well, Dallas Cowboys fans, the NFL season is finally upon us.

For months now, we have been hearing about the Sept. 5 showdown with the Super Bowl champion New York Giants.

The last time these teams played, their fates were decided on the field. The Cowboys went their way into 2011 oblivion, and the Giants went on a tear, eventually capturing the Lombardi Trophy.

As these two teams are set to kick off the 2012 season, there are a couple of reasons why the Giants will again prevail over the Cowboys.

Mojo

Dallas is supposed to win; the Giants simply win. This game will be no different.

The Giants seek another quality divisional win while the Cowboys hope to turn around their losing ways against the Giants. Since 2008 (postseason included), New York is 7-2 vs. Dallas.

This game is not about offseason preparation; it is about making (or not making) the one or two plays that define the game.

Last year, it was Jason Pierre-Paul's field goal block in December. In January, it was Eli Manning's third-down conversion to Victor Cruz in the fourth quarter.

What will it be this year?

Giants Defensive Line

Speaking of JPP, he and his fellow defensive linemen will give Dallas all sorts of problems.

This is no knock on the Cowboys, their offensive linemen or their quarterback. It's simply a testament to the incredible skill of the Giants front four.

Expect these guys to make a major impact. Their game-changing plays may end up being the difference. 

Although Tony Romo may have a good game, expect DeMarco Murray to have a subpar outing. 

Jason Witten

It is a luxury that Romo has a seasoned pass-catching and pass-protecting perennial Pro Bowler in Jason Witten. 

His status for the Giants game is uncertain, according to Bart Hubbuch of the New York Post, but his lacerated spleen is sure to limit him even if he can suit up.

Prediction

Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz will wreak havoc on the Dallas secondary. Romo will get his yards, but the Giants will win a close one in the end, 28-24.