The Giants endured a tough loss against the Detroit Lions on Sunday as they fell, 31-28, for their third loss of the season.
Brian Daboll's squad cannot afford to get too caught up in the Week 11 loss as they have a quick turnaround before their next game. The Giants will travel to Dallas to take on the Cowboys for a special Thanksgiving Day matchup.
The Cowboys are coming off their most impressive win of the season, handing the host Minnesota Vikings their second loss of the year in a 40-3 walloping.
Here are five storylines to follow in the Thanksgiving matchup.
1. Turning the page quickly
Sunday's loss was only the Giants' second outing not to finish as a one-possession game this season. The Giants lost by 13, but it would have been even more had it not been for Richie James' late fourth-touchdown. The offense turned over the ball a season-high three times, while the defense failed to register one. Despite the struggles, the Giants must turn the page quickly as they return to the field only four days later.
"It wasn't our first loss," Daboll said Monday. "You come in after a loss; you don't feel great. You feel very disappointed. You put a lot of work into it during the week, and you don't get the results you want. You should be disappointed, but you can't let it linger. In this particular case, it's such a quick turnaround. You've got to move on quickly. That's something that we've stressed really since we've gotten here: Take it day-by-day. Learn from the things you can learn from. You're going to hit bumps in the road. Whether that's a practice or a game, a play, a call, a decision, those things are going to happen. And you move on from them."
The Giants will have an opportunity to get back at the Cowboys for the Week 3 matchup in which Dallas handed Big Blue their first loss of the season. However, the team may be a bit short-handed for the Thursday game. Six Giants, including five starters, had to leave the Detroit game with injuries. However, Daboll knows his team will be ready to compete, no matter who suits up.
"We're not about excuses – never will be. We have people on our roster that are going to be ready to play," said the head coach. "And that's our job as a coaching staff is to get these guys ready to play. Again, you're always going to hit adversity – whether it's in a game, whether it's in a season. We've talked about that since April. I don't think that's something you all of a sudden talk about. You have to teach it, and you have to try to learn from it. And that's everybody – it's myself, it's the coaches, it's the players, it's the support staff. You have to believe in your process. You have to go out there and try to execute the best you can. And if you do those things, you live with the results. And you move onto the next week."
2. Injury updates: Wan'Dale out for the year
Daboll wouldn't go into much detail about the injuries during his Monday press conference, but revealed Wan'Dale Robinson suffered a season-ending ACL injury. The promising rookie wide receiver caught a season-high nine passes for 100 yards in the game and had become one of the most reliable receiving options over the past month.
"Wan'Dale had a good game," said Daboll. "He was really trending in the right direction."
Cornerback Adoree' Jackson suffered a knee injury returning a punt in the first half of Sunday's game and was later ruled out. Cornerback Fabian Moreau also was ruled out after suffering a rib injury. Both were listed as non-participants in Monday's practice (practice designations are a projection with the team limited to walk-throughs in the short week), so their game status is uncertain.
Right tackle Tyre Phillips and center Jon Feliciano (both neck injuries) also left Sunday's game with a neck injury. Opening day right tackle Evan Neal returned to practice last week after going down with a knee injury during the Week 7 win in Jacksonville. Neal got a couple of limited practices in and was listed as doubtful on the final injury report vs. Detroit, but did not suit up. It's too early to tell if he will be able to face Dallas. Versatile veteran Nick Gates came through the Lions game fine after he took over for Feliciano in the second half last Sunday.
"There's good communication with really all of them," Daboll said about the team's offensive linemen. "I think (OL coach) Bobby (Johnson) has done a good job of mixing those guys throughout practices, too, and giving them reps so that different guys are working with different guys. And that's really no different than really wherever else I've been. Obviously, you would love to have the same five guys out there. But usually, that's not the case. You're going to have to adjust and make sure those guys are doing a good job of communicating with one another."
The seven players listed as DNP on Monday's injury report were TE Daniel Bellinger (eye), OL Joshua Ezeudu (neck), Feliciano (neck), Jackson (knee), WR Richie James (knee), CB Moreau (oblique) and Phillips (neck).
3. Filling in at WR
Robinson suffering an ACL injury is just the latest blow to the team's wide receiver corps. Collin Johnson looked poised for a big role on offense this season before he tore his Achilles late in training camp. Just over one month later, Sterling Shepard, the longest tenured player on the team, was lost for the season following an ACL injury of his own.
James seems like the most logical replacement for Robinson in the slot. The veteran ranks tied for third on the team with 23 receptions, while his 230 yards ranks second. After Robinson departed Sunday's game, James stepped in and caught all three passes thrown his way for 48 yards and a touchdown. However, James is now dealing with a knee injury.
One player the Giants will have to lean on even more following Robinson's injury is Darius Slayton. Following a slow start to the season, Slayton has 23 receptions for 402 yards and two touchdowns over the past six games, and is coming off a Week 11 performance in which he was targeted a season-high 10 times.
Kenny Golladay could also be in line for more snaps. Golladay caught his first two passes (for 29 yards) since Week 1 on Sunday. Isaiah Hodgins played in his second game as a Giant and caught three passes for 29 yards (70 yards on five grabs over the past two weeks), but did lose a fumble. The depth chart also includes Marcus Johnson and David Sills, in addition to practice squad members Robert Foster, Kalil Pimpleton and Makai Polk.
View rare photos from the historic rivalry between the New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys.
Dallas Cowboy quarterback Don Meredith (17) is tackled after an 8-yard run in the second quarter of Sunday's game at the Cotton Bowl against the New York Giants September 24, 1967. Making the tackle are Giant Linebackers Bill Swain (52) and Vince Costello (57). (AP Photo)
Y.A. Tittle directs a last minute shift in strategy as the big Giants line engages the Dallas Cowboys, Nov. 12, 1963. (AP Photo/Ruben Goldberg)
New York Giants right end Aaron Thomas (88) tries hard but fails to catch pass from quarterback Fran Tarkenton in second quarter of game with the Dallas Cowboys at Yankee Stadium, Dec. 16, 1968, New York. Unidentified Cowboy pacing Thomas also failed in his intercepted attempt. The Cowboys won, 28-10. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
Cowboys fullback James Stiger (40) wasn't stopped by Giants Defensive back Jim Patton (20) in a play in the fourth quarter of their game at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas October 12, 1964. Stiger slipped from Patton a grasp and sailed through the air for a 11 yard gain. Coming in on the play is defensive Giants back Andy Nelson. (AP Photo)
Y.A. Tittle the hero is used to receiving attention and adulation wherever he goes. Here admiring young fans escort him from the field after a victory over the Dallas Cowboys, Nov. 12, 1963. (AP Photo/Ruben Goldberg)
First quarter of NFL game in Yankee Stadium, on Dec. 6, 1960 in New York. (AP Photo)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach (12) grimaces as he is hit hard by New York Giants defensive end Fred Dryer (89) and safety Tom Longo (44) after making short gain in second quarter of their game in Dallas, Tex., today, September 27, 1970. (AP Photo)
Y.A. Tittle, quarterback of the N.Y. Giants, directs a last minute shift in strategy as the Giants line crouches to engage the Dallas Cowboys, Nov. 12, 1963. (AP Photo/Ruben Goldberg)
Dallas Cowboys George Andrie (66) during a game against the New York Giants on September 27, 1970 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York. The Dallas Cowboys beat the Minnesota Vikings 28-10. Craig Morton played for 11 season all with the Dallas Cowboys and was a 5-time Pro Bowler.(David Durochik via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Craig Morton (15) turns to handoff as Dallas Cowboys linebacker Lee Roy Jordan (55) and safety Cliff Harris (43) run in pursuit during an NFL game in Flushing on October 12, 1975. The Cowboys defeated the Giants 13-7 in Shea Stadium. (AP Photo/Kevin Terrell)
Cliff Harris (43) of the Dallas Cowboys is upended returning a punt by the New York Giants during the second quarter at Yankee Stadium in New York, Dec. 13, 1971. Making the tackle is the Giants' Ralph Heck (55). In the background is Cowboy Claxton Welch. The Cowboys routed the Giants 42-14. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants defensive end George Martin flips Dallas Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach for a loss in the fourth quarter of game, Nov. 5, 1979 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Tough pressure by the Giants almost gave them a victory, but the Cowboys won 16-14 on a last minute field goal. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach (12) is chased by New York Giants defensive end Jack Gregory (81) during an NFL game against the New York Giants Oct. 10, 1976, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Tony Tomsic via AP)
Roger Staubach of the Dallas Cowboys seems oblivious to the presence of New York Giants Henry Reed behind him during the second quarter of Sundays game, Dec. 13, 1971, New York. Staubach threw three touchdown passes to lead the Cowboys to a 42-14 win over New York. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants Ottis Anderson (24) is hit by Dallas Cowboys Ken Norton, left, and Eugene Lockhart, right, in this Dec. 1989 photo in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) in action against the Dallas Cowboys at Giants Stadium, East Rutherford, N.J., Sept. 9, 1984. (AP Photo)
New York Giants Mark Bavaro, left, grabs a Phil Simms pass in front of the Dallas Cowboys Vince Albritt in the first quarter of the game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Nov. 2, 1986. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Gary Hogeboom (14) is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Leonard Marshall for a loss of ten yards in the third quarter, Nov. 4, 1984 at Irving, Texas. New York won the game 19-7. (AP Photo/Nuri Vallbona)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms celebrates his 53-yard pass to Lionel Manuel in the fourth quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at Irving, Texas, Nov. 4, 1984. (AP Photo/LK)
New York Giants running back Joe Morris (20) runs upfield during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys in East Rutherford on October 30, 1983. The Cowboys defeated the Giants 38-20. (AP Photo/Chuck Solomon)
New York Giants defensive end Lawrence Taylor rushes upfield against the Dallas Cowboys November 6, 1998 in New York. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
Dallas Cowboys running back Tony Dorsett, right, is hauled down by the New York Giants Carl Banks in the first quarter at Giants Stadium, Sunday, Oct. 6, 1985, East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
Earnest Gray (83), a New York Giants wide receiver grabs a pass from quarterback Phil Simms during the second period in Texas Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 5, 1984. Everson Wall (24) of the Cowboys was unable to prevent the 18 yard pass completion to the sidelines. The Giants beat Dallas 19-7. (AP Photo/DGB)
New York Giants tackle Brad Benson (60) prepares to block during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys in East Rutherford on October 30, 1983. The Cowboys defeated the Giants 38-20. (AP Photo/Chuck Solomon)
Dallas Cowboys running back Tony Dorsett (33) can't elude the grasp of New York Giants defensive end Curtis McGriff (76) during second half action in Texas Stadium in Irving, Sept. 28, 1981. The Giants held Dorsett to 70-yards for the day and stopped his 100-yards or better per games at three. The Cowboys still played well enough to defeat the Giants 18-10. (AP Photo/Ron Heflin)
New York Giants wide-receiver Johnny Perkins sprints down the side lines during second half action Sunday September 28, 1981 at Texas Stadium in Irving, Texas. Perkins (86) caught a pass from quarterback Phil Simms and was stopped by Dallas Cowboys safety Michael Downs (26). The Cowboys defeated the Giants 18-10 to win their fourth straight game. (AP Photo/Harry Cabluck)
Dallas Cowboys running back Lincoln Coleman (44) is in the center of a free-for- all with the New York Giants at the end of the first half Monday night, Nov. 7, 1994 in Irving, Texas. The Cowboys won, 38-10. -- (November 8, 1994.)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) celebrates during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys at the Meadowlands, East Rutherford, N.J., Oct. 18, 1999. The Giants defeated the Cowboys 13-10. (AP Photo/NFL Photos/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants Pepper Johnson tries to stop Dallas Cowboys Emmitt Smith during the first quarter of their match up at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Sunday, Sept. 13, 1992. Johnson was able to hold the charging Smith to just one yard on the play. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) gets some much needed protection from Doug Reisenberg (72) as he blocks Dallas Cowboys Tony Casillas (75) during the third quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sept. 13, 1992. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Anthony Wright (2) hits the ground after being sacked by New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan in the fourth quarater Sunday, Dec. 17, 2000 in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (9) and New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2009, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
Former President George W. Bush and his wife, Laura, watches his coin toss, as do officials and New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys players before an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 20, 2009, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
New York Giants tight end Kevin Boss, left, crosses the goal line for a touchdown before Dallas Cowboys safety Keith Davis pushed him out during the first quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 2, 2008, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants players including Shaun O'Hara (60) and David Diehl, right, celebrate after Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) scored the wining touchdown on a 1-yard run against the Dallas Cowboys in the fourth quarter of an NFC divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. The Giants beat the Cowboys 21-17. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants cornerback R.W. McQuarters (25) intercepts a pass intended for Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Terry Glenn (83) in the end zone during the final seconds of the fourth quarter of an NFC divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. The interception ended the Cowboys' final drive and sealed the Giants' 21-17 win. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
New York Giants wide receiver Amani Toomer (81) beats Dallas Cowboys linebacker Akin Ayodele, right, to the end zone as Toomer scores a touchdown on a 52-yard pass play in an NFC divisional playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
Dallas Cowboys running back Marion Barber (24) fumbles the ball as he is hit by New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan in the first quarter of an NFC divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. The Cowboys recovered the ball on the play. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
New York Giants wide receiver Amani Toomer races 52 yards against the Dallas Cowboys for a touchdown in the first quarter in an NFC divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants fullback Jim Finn carries a pass from quarterback Eli Manning for 15 yards in the fourth quarter of the Giants' 17-10 victory over the Dallas Cowboys to give the Giants sole possession of first place in the NFC East, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Cowboys cornerback Terrence Newman tries but can't stop Finn's run. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Dallas Cowboys' Terrell Owens (81) tries to get around New York Giants' R.W. McQuarters (25), right, and Sam Madison (22) after a reception during the second quarter of NFL Football in East Rutherford, N.J. on Sunday, Dec. 3, 2006. (AP Photo/Tim Larsen)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) celebrates his touchdown against the Dallas Cowboys by standing on the Cowboy's star in the end zone in the third quarter of their football game in Irving, Texas, Monday, Oct. 23, 2006. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Drew Bledsoe (11) is sacked for a loss of six yards by New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) in the 2nd quarter of their football game in Irving, Texas, Monday, Oct. 23, 2006. (AP Photo/L.M. Otero)
New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress (17) pull in a 50-yard touchdown pass in front of Dallas Cowboys safety Patrick Watkins (25) in the first quarter of their football game in Irving, Texas, Monday, Oct. 23, 2006. (AP Photo/L.M. Otero))
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan celebrates after sacking Dallas Cowboys quarterback Drew Bledsoe, rear during the third quarter Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 17-10. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Dallas Cowboys running back Julius Jones hangs on to the ball while being tackled by New York Giants' Nick Greisen during the third quarter Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005 in East Rutherford, N.J. Jones finished the game with 74 rushing yards and 88 receiving yards, but the Giants won 17-10. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan, front, celebrates after sacking Dallas Cowboys quarterback Drew Bledsoe, left rear, during the third quarter Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Cowboys guard Larry Allen is behind Strahan. The Giants won, 17-10. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants defensive tackle Kendrick Allen celebrates after recovering a fumble during the second quarter against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning calls an audible during he fourth quarter agaisnt the Dallas Cowboys Sunday night, Jan. 2, 2005, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Manning completed 18 of 27 passes for 144 yards and three touchdowns, leading the Giants to a 28-24 win. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants safety Brent Alexander reacts as he carries the ball after intercepting Drew Bledsoe's pass intended for Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson in the fourth quarter of the Giants' 17-10 victory over Dallas, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Dallas Cowboys coach Bill Parcells, right, shakes hands with New York Giants coach Tom Coughlin after the Giants' 26-10 win in Irving, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 10, 2004. (AP Photo/L.M. Otero)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) crashes over Dallas Cowboy cornerback Terence Newman (41) as Cowboys linebacker Bradie James (56) tries to make the stop in the 4th quarter in Irving, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 10, 2004. The Giants won, 26-10. (AP Photo/Tim Sharp)
New York Giants' Visanthe Shiancoe celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter Sunday, Jan. 2, 2005 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
Dallas Cowboys running back Eddie George (27) and New York Giants safety Gibril Wilson (28) get into a shoving match after George picked up 24-yards on a running play in the 1st quarter in Irving, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 10, 2004. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
New York Giants corner back Frnk Walker (41) knocks the pass away from Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson (19) in the end zone in 1st quarter at Irving, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 10, 2004. The Giants won, 26-10. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
New York Giants Ike Hilliard (88) dives over the goal line for a touchdown in the second quarter against the Dallas Cowboys, in Irving, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2002. (AP Photo/Tim Sharp)
Dallas Cowboys coach Bill Parcells, left, shakes hands with New York Giants coach Jim Fassel, prior to the game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Monday Sept. 15, 2003. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Kerry Collins (5) runs with the ball in the second quarter against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday, Dec. 17, 2000, as Cowboys defensive end Greg Ellis (98) gives chase. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
Dallas Cowboys' Troy Hambrick (42) is tackled by New York Giants Will Peterson (24) during the second quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Monday, Sept. 15, 2003. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants' Brian Mitchell, right, grabs Dallas Cowboys' Zuriel Smith, center, as he carries a punt return in the first quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Monday Sept. 15, 2003. Giants' Quincy Monk (93) and Cowboys' Randal Williams are at left. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber, right, breaks away from Dallas Cowboys safety Tony Dixon as he runs for a 60-yard gain during the first quarter Sunday, Dec. 15, 2002, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Ron Dayne (27) scores a touchdown on a four-yard run during the first quarter against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday, Dec. 15, 2002, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Dayne gained 80 yards and scored two touchdowns as the Giants beat the Cowboys 37-7. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Thabiti Davis, right, blocks a punt by Dallas Cowboys punter Micah Knorr during the fourth quarter Sunday, Nov. 4, 2001, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants beat the Cowboys 27-24 in overtime. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants Tiki Barber (21) pushes off Dallas Cowboys linebacker Dexter Coakley (52) in the fourth quarter Sunday, Oct. 6, 2002, in Irving, Texas. The Giants won, 21-17. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
New York Giants' Hakeem Nicks runs for the end zone during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game between the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Nov. 14, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
The New York Giants celebrate after defeating the Dallas Cowboys 37-34 after an NFL game Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Brandon Wade)
New York Giants cornerback Corey Webstern celebrates in front of the Dallas Cowboys following a failed field goal attempt by the Cowboys in the final seconds of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. The Giants won 37-34. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
The New York Giants celebrate after Dallas Cowboys' Dan Bailey, center, had his field goal attempt blocked during the final seconds of an NFL football game against the New York Giants Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. New York won 37-34. (AP Photo/Sharon Ellman)
New York Giants' Brandon Jacobs scores the winning touchdown against the Dallas Cowboys during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. New York won 37-34. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
New York Giants' Eli Manning during the second quarter of an NFL football game between the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Nov. 14, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants' Kevin Boss, left, fends off Dallas Cowboys' Bradie James during the first quarter of an NFL football game between the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Nov. 14, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants' Brandon Jacobs scores a touchdown as Dallas Cowboys' Anthony Spencer looks on during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Sharon Ellman)
New York Giants defensive end Dave Tollefson (71) tries to wrap up Dallas Cowboys quaterback Tony Romo (9) during an NFL football game on Sunday January 1, 2012 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) catches the ball during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2019 in Arlington, Texas. Dallas won 35-17. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
New York Giants tight end Larry Donnell (84) leaps over Dallas Cowboys cornerback Brandon Carr (39) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 13, 2015, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
New York Giants offensive guard Will Hernandez (71) and tight end Evan Engram (88) celebrate a touchdown catch by Engram in the first half of a NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) passes between Dallas Cowboys defensive end Tyrone Crawford (98) and free safety Barry Church (42) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct., 19, 2014, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (9) chats with New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning after their NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Cowboys 31-14.(AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) attempts to escape the tackle by Dallas Cowboys cornerback Chidobe Awuzie (24) in the first half of a NFL football game in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, left, runs past Dallas Cowboys' Jeff Heath during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Cowboys 31-14. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, top, scores a touchdown just before the ball is knocked from his hands during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec., 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Evan Engram, left, celebrates his touchdown catch with teammate Will Hernandez (71) during the second half of an NFL football game in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Sept. 16, 2018. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) signals at the line of scrimmage in the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday, Sept. 13, 2015, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (21) is wrapped up by New York Giants defenders after a short run in the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 11, 2016, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Ron Jenkins)
New York Giants cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (41) breaks up a pass intended for Dallas Cowboys' Dez Bryant (88) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 11, 2016, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Ron Jenkins)
New York Giants defensive end Dave Tollefson (71) tries to wrap up Dallas Cowboys quaterback Tony Romo (9) during an NFL football game on Sunday January 1, 2012 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) breaks loose during the first half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) makes a 18-yard touchdown as Dallas Cowboys safety Will Allen (26) loses his helmet during the second half of aN NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2013, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
New York Giants strong safety Antrel Rolle (26) intercepts a pass in front of Dallas Cowboys' Dez Bryant (88) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 24, 2013, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants receiver Victor Cruz (80) catches a pass between Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick (32) and safety Gerald Sensabaugh (43) during an NFL football game Sunday, January 1, 2012 at MetLife Stadium in Newark, New Jersey. The Giants won the game, 31-14. (AP Photo/James D Smith)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) is sacked by New York Giants' Robert Thomas (99) and Romeo Okwara (78) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 11, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Daniel Fells (85) drags Dallas Cowboys free safety Barry Church (42) into the end zone for a score as the Giants' Rueben Randle (82) watches during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 19, 2014, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass against the Dallas Cowboys during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) runs around the edge during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Dallas won 37-18. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs by Dallas Cowboys cornerback Chidobe Awuzie (24) during an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, NJ. The Cowboys defeated the Giants, 38-17. (James D. Smith via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) is forced out of bounds by Dallas Cowboys free safety Xavier Woods (25) during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) and Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) meet at midfield after an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Cowboys won 37-18. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) reacts after tackling Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (21) during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Andrew Thomas (78)
Devonta Freeman (31)
Andrew Thomas (78)
Darius Slayton (86)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scrambles during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) catches the ball in the endzone during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) rushes the passer during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
Dallas Cowboys defensive end Bradlee Anae (56) pressures New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys defeated the Giants, 37-34. (James D. Smith via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) runs the ball during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) on the line of scrimmage during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
The New York Giants offensive line lines up across the Dallas Cowboys defensive line during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. Dallas won 37-34. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) on the line of scrimmage during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
Dallas Cowboys linebacker Jaylon Smith (54) attempts to tackle New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) during an NFL game against the New York Giants, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants cornerback Darnay Holmes (30) breaks up a pass intended for Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb (88) during the second half of an NFL football game in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass under pressure from Dallas Cowboys defensive end Dorance Armstrong (92) and defensive end Aldon Smith (58) in the first half of an NFL football game in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020. (AP Photo/Ron Jenkins)
New York Giants place kicker Graham Gano (5) kicks a field goal from the hold of Riley Dixon (9) in the first half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) during a week 17 regular season football game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) sacks Dallas Cowboys quarterback Andy Dalton (14) during a week 17 regular season football game at MetLife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 17 regular season football game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants safety Xavier McKinney (29) during a week 17 regular season football game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) during a week 17 regular season football game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) during a week 17 regular season football game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) during a week 17 regular season football game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) sacks Dallas Cowboys quarterback Andy Dalton (14) during a week 17 regular season football game at MetLife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 5 game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas on Sunday October 10th, 2021,
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys during a week 5 game in Arlington, Texas on Sunday October 10th, 2021,
Leonard Williams (99)
Azeez Ojulari (51)
Devontae Booker (28)
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) during a week 15 football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday December 19th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Dexter Lawrence (97)
Danny Shelton (75)
Azeez Ojulari (51)
Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) during a week 15 football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday December 19th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants linebacker Azeez Ojulari (51) during a Monday Night football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Monday September 26, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
Ben Bredeson (68), Andrew Thomas (78)
New York Giants defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) during a Monday Night football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Monday September 26, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
Isaiah Hodgins (18)
Andrew Thomas (78)
Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
Sterling Shepard (3)
Daniel Bellinger (82)
Andrew Thomas (78)
Darius Slayton (86)
Daniel Jones (8)
Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
Darius Slayton (86)
Dexter Lawrence (97)
Daniel Jones (8)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) during a NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday November 24, 2022 in Arlington, Texas (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday November 24, 2022 in Arlington, Texas (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
New York Giants defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) during a Monday Night football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Monday September 26, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
New York Giants linebacker Jihad Ward (55) celebrates a tackle during a NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday November 24, 2022 in Arlington, Texas (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
TE Daniel Bellinger (82)
Queen Latifah sings the National Anthem before a week 1 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, September 10, 2023 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
A look down the line of scrimmage during a week 10 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, November 12, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
TE Lawrence Cager (83)
CB Deonte Banks (25)
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II (97) before a week 10 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, November 12, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
QB Tommy DeVito (15)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) during a week 10 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, November 12, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
NYPD, FDNY,PAPD before a week 1 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, September 10, 2023 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II (97) before a week 1 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, September 10, 2023 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants cornerback Darnay Holmes (30) intercepts a pass during a week 10 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, November 12, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
QB Tommy DeVito (15)
New York Giants quarterback Tommy DeVito (15) during a week 10 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, November 12, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
Deonte Banks, Kayvon Thibodeaux
4. Get the run game going
Heading into Week 11, Saquon Barkley led the NFL in rushing yards and was second in rush attempts. Barkley had his most difficult outing of the season against the Lions, gaining 22 yards on 15 carries for an average of 1.5 yards per attempt. The total yardage and average yards per carry were the lowest of the season for the fifth-year running back. Barkley still ranks second in the league with 953 rushing yards.
Barkley will look to get back on track on Thanksgiving. In Week 3 vs. Dallas, the 25-year-old registered 14 rush attempts for 81 yards (5.8 avg.) and scored a touchdown. He also caught four passes for 45 yards. Barkley is averaging over 5.0 yards per carry in seven career games against Dallas.
Although the Cowboys have allowed the fewest points (16.7 avg.) in the league and rank ninth with 310.6 yards allowed, their defense ranks 26th in both rushing yards allowed (136.1) and yards per attempt (4.7). While they limited the Vikings to just 73 yards on the ground this past Sunday, Dallas surrendered over 200 rushing yards in each of their previous two games (207 against the Packers, 240 against the Bears).
5. Who steps up at CB?
Similar to the wide receiver position, the Giants appear to be short-handed when it comes to cornerbacks. Aaron Robinson remains on injured reserve with a knee injury suffered in Week 4. Now Adoree' Jackson (knee) and Fabian Moreau (oblique), the top two cornerbacks on the depth chart, could be in danger of missing the Week 12 matchup after both were listed as non-participants in practice on Monday.
The Giants have several players who could be in line for increased playing time if Jackson and Moreau don't suit up. Nick McCloud was on the field for 39 defensive snaps (58 percent) Sunday and finished with three solo tackles, including one tackle for loss. Second-year cornerback Rodarius Williams made his 2022 debut and had four solo tackles on 27 snaps (40 percent). Meanwhile, rookie Cor'Dale Flott registered a pass breakup and three tackles (two solo) on 22 snaps (33 percent). All three could see more of a role this week.
Cowboys QB Dak Prescott has averaged 263.7 passing yards with multiple TD passes over each of his past three games. He also has a 7-to-2 touchdown-to-interception ratio during that span with an additional score on the ground. Prescott had perhaps the most efficient outing of his career against the Vikings on Sunday as he completed 88 percent of his passes for 276 yards with two TDs and no interceptions for a passer rating of 139.3.
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