NFL Thanksgiving: Giants-Cowboys Preview, Props, Prediction

Thanksgiving Clash: Giants vs. Cowboys

The NFL’s Thanksgiving Day lineup features an NFC East rivalry between the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys. While both teams are struggling this season, the matchup still carries intrigue as the Cowboys seek their first home win since 2023 and the Giants look to end a six-game skid.


Game Preview

Cowboys’ Challenges

Dallas has been far from dominant this season, but they come into this game off a morale-boosting win over Washington. Backup quarterback Cooper Rush has been steady, if unspectacular, and the team has leaned on a resurgent rushing attack featuring Rico Dowdle. Micah Parsons has returned to form after a high-ankle sprain, anchoring a defense that could dominate a battered Giants offense.

Giants’ Woes

The Giants’ offense ranks last in the league, averaging just 14.8 points per game. Injuries have forced them to turn to Drew Lock, their third starting quarterback in as many weeks. The defense has been leaky, particularly against the run, giving up 140+ yards in five consecutive games. Despite some standout performances from rookie wideout Malik Nabers and defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence, the team’s depth has been exposed.


  • Spread: Cowboys -3.5
    Dallas is heavily backed, with 83% of the spread-line money in their favor.
  • Moneyline: Cowboys -200
    Dallas’ moneyline is the second-most wagered-on bet for Week 13, trailing only the Lions.
  • Over/Under: 37.0
    The Over has garnered 65% of the money, despite the low total.

Prop Bets to Watch

  1. Tyrone Tracy 70+ Rushing Yards (+100 at DraftKings)
    Tracy has been a bright spot in New York’s offense, but his production hinges on game flow. If the Giants can stay competitive, he’s likely to surpass this mark against a Dallas defense ranked 22nd against the run.
  2. CeeDee Lamb Anytime TD (+155 at BetRivers)
    Lamb has been Dallas’ most consistent weapon, and the Giants’ secondary has struggled to contain top receivers. Lamb is overdue for a touchdown after several weeks without one.

Injury Report

Giants

  • QB Tommy DeVito (forearm): Out
  • OT Jermaine Eluemunor (quad): Out
  • OT Evan Neal (hip): Questionable

Cowboys

  • TE Jake Ferguson (concussion): Probable
  • CB Trevon Diggs (groin/knee): Questionable
  • LG Zack Martin (shoulder/ankle): Out

Key Matchups

  1. Giants’ O-Line vs. Micah Parsons:
    Parsons has been a wrecking ball in recent weeks, and the Giants’ patchwork offensive line will struggle to keep him away from Drew Lock.
  2. Rico Dowdle vs. Giants’ Run Defense:
    Dowdle has been productive recently and faces a New York defense that has been gashed on the ground for five straight weeks.
  3. Malik Nabers vs. Cowboys’ Secondary:
    Nabers had a strong game in Week 4 against Dallas. Can he replicate that performance against a healthier Dallas secondary?

What to Watch For

  • Can Drew Lock provide a spark for the Giants’ offense?
  • Will the Cowboys break their six-game home losing streak?
  • How will injuries impact both teams’ game plans?

Prediction

The Cowboys have struggled at home, but their defense and rushing attack provide a significant edge over a depleted Giants squad. New York’s offensive line issues will make it difficult to protect Drew Lock or establish a consistent ground game, allowing Dallas to control the tempo and field position.

Final Score: Cowboys 27, Giants 17