The Dallas Cowboys are once again in the playoffs.
But, this season they are hoping for a better result than last year.
The Cowboys travel to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday Night.
Despite being on the road, the Cowboys enter the game as favorites.
But, facing Tom Brady in a playoff game is never an easy task.
The Cowboys have not won a playoff game since 2018.
Nevertheless, here are two keys to the Cowboys winning on Monday Night.
Fast Start
The Cowboys must get off to a fast start in this game.
Too many times before have they been playing catchup in big games and failed to come out on top.
Dallas has the more explosive offense and a turnover-hungry defense.
The Cowboys, like most teams, play their best when they have a lead and can control the clock.
Quarterback Dak Prescott using his legs in this game could be another key factor.
In Dak Prescott's lone playoff win, 2018 season over Seahawks, he used his legs. Ran six times for 29 yards and a touchdown by ground. Will we see Dak favor legs more in Cowboys-Bucs?
McCarthy: "I’ve never told Dak not to run. If anything, I encourage (the) scramble drill more."
— Jori Epstein (@JoriEpstein) January 12, 2023
Tampa Bay has struggled to score points all season.
The last thing the Cowboys need is the Bucs gaining confidence early in the game.
After an abysmal showing in Week 18, the Cowboys offense should be locked in from the opening kick.
Plus the Cowboys are 8-3 this season when they score first in games.
All signs point to a fast start being crucial in getting this win.
Win The Turnover Battle
No defense is better at taking the ball away than the Cowboys.
They have led the league in takeaways back-to-back seasons and will look to carry that into the playoffs.
Cowboys are first team to lead NFL in takeaways in back-to-back seasons since 1972-1974 Steelers, per @NFLResearchhttps://t.co/FH3fRUJboH pic.twitter.com/DJCABIFc8J
— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) January 9, 2023
Tampa Bay turned the ball over 22 times this season and had a -2 turnover differential on the year.
While the Cowboys had a +10 turnover differential.
It will be hard to intercept Brady though because he likes to throw short/quick passes to avoid hits.
But, fumbles are a distinct possibility both by hitting Brady in the pocket and trying to strip the ball carriers.
Dallas is 7-1 this season when they win the turnover battle.
For the Cowboys, Dak Prescott has had an interception problem of late.
Throwing at least one in each of his last seven games.
Prescott must take care of the ball on Monday and let his defense win them the turnover battle.
If the Cowboys can do that they will be in great shape.
