Cowboys, Raiders Clash in Crucial Monday Night Showdown: Can Dallas Bounce Back?

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The Dallas Cowboys and Las Vegas Raiders are set to face off in a pivotal Monday night matchup, with the Cowboys clinging to playoff hopes and the Raiders struggling to find their footing in the AFC West. Despite being separated by less than two games in the NFL standings, the two teams are worlds apart in terms of realistic expectations for the rest of the season. The Raiders are 2-7 and sitting in last place in their division, while the Cowboys are 3-5-1 and desperate for a win. The Cowboys have been dealt a significant blow with the loss of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, who died in a tragic incident last week. However, coach Brian Schottenheimer believes that the team will be able to channel their emotions into a strong performance on the field. Dallas has dropped consecutive games, but they remain 3.5-point favorites against the Raiders. The team has been bolstered by the additions of linebacker Logan Wilson and Pro Bowl defensive tackle Quinnen Williams, who are expected to make their debut against Las Vegas. The Raiders, on the other hand, have struggled to cover the spread in recent games and have lost 17 of their last 18 as underdogs. They will be looking to their passing game to help them keep up with the high-powered Cowboys offense, which has averaged 40.3 points per game in their three wins this season. Key stats to watch include the Cowboys' ability to contain Raiders quarterback Geno Smith, who has thrown 12 interceptions this season, and the Raiders' struggles to defend against the pass, which has allowed 12 touchdowns through nine games. Prop picks to consider include Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott throwing two or more touchdowns, and Raiders quarterback Geno Smith throwing an interception. In the end, it's likely to be a close game, but the Cowboys' passing game and defense should prove to be too much for the Raiders. Prediction: Cowboys 31, Raiders 23.