MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL PREVIEW

NY GIANTS @ DALLAS COWBOYS: COWBOYS: Despite Dallas' great rankings and success in the pass game, the Cowboys continue to let games slip away from them in the closing moments. Part of it all points to poor coaching discipline. Penalties have killed them in at least two games and blown routes and assignments have hurt them in key situations as well. Felix Jones has officially been given lead back duties, and the Cowboys will benefit from it. They need him as they rank 25th in Rushing and face the Giants 7th ranked pass defense. Romo won't have it any easier as the Giants have been stingy against the pass too and rank 2nd. The Cowboys may catch a break is Kiwanuka misses time, but I see the key to this game being the run attack. The Boys are beating opponents in every category except the run, but they choose the worst times to allow a turn over or a penalty. This has been a week of reflection no doubt, and expect the Boys to come out in their best form.

GIANTS: The Giants have found their run game now that both Jacobs and Bradshaw have roles which suit them perfectly and more importantly are happy with. They rank 6th in rushing and will face the Cowboys 12th ranked run defense. While the Giants will see success on the ground, they may be without Hakeem Nicks whom is questionable with a hammy issue. Expect him to play, but you won't know until kick off if you can play him. If he is out, the Giants have a tougher hill to climb against the Dallas 4th ranked pass defense. The Giants know what they have to do and that is pound the ball and control the clock, something they do well. However, Manning has shown the ability to pass 50 times a game if it dictates.

I don't see this as a shootout high scoring affair. Both teams will look to lead with their run games in order to set up the pass. The Cowboys are desperate and at home. DALLAS 24- NYG 21.

FANTASY STARTS: NYG: Bradshaw (13 for 80 yds. 1 TD) Jacobs ( 8 for 40 yds. 1 TD) Nicks (5 for 80 yds. 1 TD) ....give these numbers to Manningham is Nicks is out.

COWBOYS: Romo (250 yds 2 TD) F. Jones (14 for 60 yds./ 4 for 35 yds, 1 TD) Williams (5 for 60 yds. 1 TD) Austin ( 7 for 90 yds. 1 TD)

SLEEPER: S. Smith NYG....with or without Nicks, Steve Smith will be the odd man out when it comes to Dallas' pass coverage. Smith will need to have key receptions and should be that guy who sneaks in for a score.