A 55-yard field goal opened Dallas’ last game, but Javonte Williams supplied the thunder that finished it. His 155 rushing yards helped the Cowboys power past Philadelphia 38-21 and gave their season fresh energy. Now Dallas brings that energy home to AT&T Stadium on Sunday, where the 3-4 Cowboys face the 2-5 Arizona Cardinals.

This game puts two teams with urgent missions under the giant stadium lights. Dallas wants to turn one strong win into a climb back toward the playoff race. Arizona is building around young talent and needs to show it can finish long drives with touchdowns. Both teams have playmakers who can change a game quickly, so the team that makes the most of its chances should control the afternoon.

Dallas has scored 27 points per game, and its passing attack is the engine. Dak Prescott has CeeDee Lamb, whose 53 catches and 651 yards show how often he finds space and turns short throws into longer gains. Lamb scored twice against Philadelphia and can force defenders to follow him closely. That can open room for George Pickens, a speedy, strong-handed receiver who attacks downfield. Pickens is listed as questionable, so his status matters greatly.

Williams gives the Cowboys another way to attack. He runs with force, keeps his legs moving, and has already scored eight rushing touchdowns. Arizona allows nearly 30 points per game, which means its defense has struggled to stop opponents before drives reach the end zone. The Cardinals must slow Williams early, then make Prescott work through tight throwing lanes.

Arizona can answer with a star of its own: Trey McBride. The tight end leads the Cardinals with 59 catches, and he is a tough target in the middle of the field. Jacoby Brissett threw for 272 yards in last week’s loss to Denver, while McBride caught 10 passes for 111 yards. Their connection is Arizona’s steady path forward. If Brissett gets the ball out quickly to McBride, the Cardinals can keep Dallas’ defense on the field and quiet the home crowd.

The Cardinals also need help from their ground game. Rookie Jeremiyah Love brings speed and strength, though his ankle has made him questionable. Arizona gains only 96 rushing yards per game, almost the same as Dallas, so either team could gain an edge by establishing the run. Arizona’s offensive line is also missing tackle Paris Johnson Jr., making protection a major challenge against a Dallas defense trying to play faster and tougher.

Dallas has allowed plenty of yards this season, so Brissett, McBride, and Arizona’s young receivers will have opportunities. Yet the Cowboys just showed they can win with balance, explosive catches, a punishing runner, and timely defensive plays. At home, with Lamb and Williams leading the charge, the Cowboys should win this Week 8 showdown.

CeeDee Lamb and Trey McBride Bring Big Targets to Dallas