Dallas Cowboys Prepare for Important Game Against Buccaneers

The Dallas Cowboys face a crucial primetime game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, aiming for a much-needed win. Currently holding a 2-2 record after narrowly defeating the Houston Texans in Week 4, the Cowboys have struggled with an underwhelming offense and a defense that remains among the league’s weakest.

Thursday night’s game offers a significant chance for the Cowboys to make an impact, especially since the Buccaneers will be playing without Baker Mayfield, as they are still winless. Dallas brings positive news with the return of one of its key players.

According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, the Cowboys have activated All-Pro guard Tyler Smith from injured reserve for the game against the Buccaneers. Smith, who suffered a left thumb injury during training camp in August and required surgery, had been on IR since just before the regular season started, missing at least four games. His 21-day practice window opened on Monday, and he fully participated on Wednesday, indicating his readiness to return.

Smith, a first-round pick in 2022, has earned three Pro Bowl selections and second-team All-Pro honors in 2023. Over his first four seasons, he started 63 games and is considered one of the top interior offensive linemen in the league.

The Cowboys’ offense, led by Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and George Pickens, has maintained a strong passing presence, but the run game has lagged, averaging only 89.5 rushing yards per game, a low figure in the league. Smith’s return is expected to boost their ground game, even against the Buccaneers’ formidable run defense, which allows only 78.5 yards per game on average.