Coming off their bye week with key roster upgrades, the Cowboys may find themselves in a prime position to capitalize on uncertainty under center for their next opponent.
’s been a busy stretch for the Dallas Cowboys, but the timing of their bye week couldn’t be better. With a chance to regroup, heal up, and integrate two new defensive additions-Quinnen Williams and Logan Wilson-the Cowboys are using this window to recalibrate before a high-profile Monday Night Football matchup in Week 11 against the Las Vegas Raiders.
But as the Cowboys prepare for that primetime clash, they’re also monitoring a situation that could have a direct impact on how they game plan: the health of Raiders quarterback Geno Smith.
Smith suffered a leg injury during Las Vegas’ Thursday night win over the Denver Broncos. He was briefly replaced by Kenny Pickett, but returned to the field noticeably hobbled and clearly in discomfort. While the Raiders managed to close out the game with Smith back under center, his mobility was limited, and that’s something Dallas will be keeping a close eye on.
After the game, Raiders head coach Pete Carroll downplayed the injury, calling it a thigh bruise and expressing confidence that Smith will be ready to go by Week 11. “It shouldn’t [affect him],” Carroll said.
“It’s not like some other injuries. This is not one that he can’t get back from.”
That’s the hope in Las Vegas, but if there’s one thing this season has reminded us, it’s that quarterback injuries are rarely predictable. Just look at Lamar Jackson and Brock Purdy-two starters who were expected back sooner than they actually returned.
Jackson’s hamstring issue lingered longer than many expected, and while Purdy avoided injured reserve, hindsight suggests the 49ers might’ve been better off giving him more time. Mac Jones has filled in admirably, but the uncertainty around Purdy’s timeline created plenty of questions.
In Smith’s case, the early diagnosis is relatively optimistic. A thigh bruise isn’t ideal, but it’s far from the worst-case scenario.
Still, the way he moved against Denver raises valid concerns. He was clearly limited, and that’s not something that simply disappears overnight.
So where does that leave the Cowboys? In a position where they need to prepare for both possibilities-Smith or Pickett. And frankly, that’s not a bad spot to be in for a defense that’s already shown flashes of dominance this season.
If Pickett ends up getting the nod, Dallas’ defense could be looking at an opportunity to make a statement coming out of the bye. The Cowboys have the personnel to rattle a young quarterback, especially one who’s still finding his rhythm in a new system.
Even if Smith does start, it’s worth noting he hasn’t exactly been lighting up the stat sheet this season. He’s been solid, but not spectacular.
Either way, Dan Quinn’s unit should be licking its chops. Whether it’s a banged-up Smith or a less-experienced Pickett, the Cowboys’ defense has a chance to set the tone for the second half of the season.
For now, all eyes in Dallas will be on the Raiders’ injury report. Because as much as the Cowboys are focused on getting healthy and integrating new talent, knowing who they’ll be facing under center in Week 11 could shape how they attack one of their most important matchups of the year.
