Redskins vs Cowboys: Will Washington's Defense Shut Down Dallas?

The Dallas Cowboys enter Monday night's clash with the Washington Redskins a hobbled group offensively. Quarterback Tony Romo is still recovering from a punctured lung and broken rib suffered in Week 2, while two of his receivers and his starting running back are also injured. The Redskins' defense has to be licking its chops ready to pounce on the wounded Cowboys.

Washington's defense has been a pleasant surprise so far this season. The Redskins rank 11th in the NFL in total defense (319.5 yards per game), 14th in passing yards allowed (235.5 yards per game) and sixth in rushing yards allowed (84 yards per game). They have also surrendered just 17.5 points per game (fifth in the league).

Washington's stout defense also racked up seven sacks in two games, while intercepting two passes and recovering a fumble.

Dallas enters the game with Romo clearly not at 100 percent. Though he will likely start, other key players are also banged up. Receiver Miles Austin has been ruled out of tonight's game and Kevin Ogletree will start in his spot. Austin's hamstring injury is likely to keep him out a few more weeks.

Receiver Dez Bryant is expected to play despite still battling a quad injury. Bryant is likely to see a lot of passes come his way tonight with Austin out, so expect the Redskins to key on him.

Meanwhile, running back Felix Jones is still questionable for tonight's contest as he recovers from a shoulder injury. Even if Jones does play it's unlikely that he handles a full load of carries. DeMarco Murray and Tashard Choice will probably spell him.

With so many guys banged up I'll be surprised if the Redskins don't go into attack mode early tonight and look to punish their division rivals. Washington may not be able to fully shut down the Cowboys but if it was ever going to happen tonight would be the night.