Green Bay Packers vs Dallas Cowboys prediction and betting odds

Need-to-know info

• Who: Green Bay Packers @ Dallas Cowboys
• When: Sunday, Jan 14 at 4:30pm ET
• Where: AT&T Stadium, Dallas, TX
• How to watch: FOX

Grab your popcorn, this could be special. These two have provided some Playoff classics down the years. If you don’t remember the epic battles of the nineties, you might be more familiar with the ‘Dez Caught It’ game or Green Bay’s wild walk-off win in 2016.

If your memory is still hazy, don’t worry. The latest era of the rivalry could be about to begin, with QB Jordan Love now looking like the long-term future of the Packers. Eyebrows were raised, mainly by Aaron Rodgers, when Love was drafted in the first round in 2020. Now he’s got jaws dropping instead.

Thirty-two touchdown passes and a fantastic final three games when it mattered most, averaging 27.7 points with passer ratings of 109.1, 125.3 and 128.6. Lovely. Head Coach Matt LaFleur has worked wonders to get this young side performing at such a high level.

But how will they fare against the new NFC East champions? Dallas extended the streak of alternating division winners, chasing down the Philadelphia Eagles and claiming the second seed in the NFC. It was a wild ride.

The defense has been the star of the show. One of the best in the league with one of the best in the league – Pro Bowler Micah Parsons. The third-year linebacker has improved his sack tally in each of his seasons, with 14 this year. Cornerback DaRon Bland set a new NFL record this year with FIVE pick-sixes. This D comes to play.

We need to talk about CeeDee Lamb, too. The WR sure looks set to join the list of legends to pull on that famous 88 jersey, surpassing 1,000 yards for the third straight season. With 135 receptions (1st), 1,749 yards (2nd) and 12 touchdowns (3rd), this was his best year yet. Dak Prescott has found the perfect partner.

But similar to the Dolphins (who they lost to in Week 16), the Cowboys struggled against stronger opposition all season long. That’s got many questioning their Championship credentials, and it will give the Packers confidence that they can come into Texas and cause an upset.

Dallas could afford to take their foot off the gas against the Commanders late on and it shows on the latest injury report, boasting almost a perfect bill of health going into this one.

The most notable omission from practice was Stephon Gilmore, who dislocated his shoulder during their 38-10 win in the capital. But Head Coach Mike McCarthy said the star corner is making good progress, so he could well suit up when the Packers come to town.

Green Bay look nice and healthy too with AJ Dillon the only player missing practice. The fourth-year running back has proved the perfect accompaniment to Aaron Jones over the years, joining forces to become one of the most feared RB duos in the NFL.

The receiving options are looking good too. Christian Watson returns after a four-week absence, while Romeo Doubs – who came off during their Week 18 win over the Bears – is back and ready for action.

Two healthy teams, one great battle, zero excuses. Let’s go.

Season Record

Green Bay Packers: 10-7 (2nd in the NFC North)

Dallas Cowboys: 11-6 (1st in the NFC East)

Previous Meeting

Packers 31-28 Cowboys OT (Week 10, last season)

Final Five

Packers: LLWWW

Cowboys: WLLWW

Dallas Cowboys are our pick to advance, although the Packers won’t go down without a fight.

Green Bay have a bright future ahead, but in the present, we’re leaning towards the home team.

Picks:

Moneyline: Cowboys (-360)

Spread: Packers +7.5 (-109)

Total: Under 51 (-110)

Odds and spreads correct as of 01/10/2024