Stephen Nover Free NFL Sunday Play
(NFL) Dallas vs. Washington, 10/29/2017 12:25 PM, Score: 33 - 19
Money Line: -128.00 Dallas (Away)
Result: Win
Playing on a short week after being on the Monday night stage, as the Redskins were six days ago, is a tough spot. But things have become much tougher for Washington given its cluster injury problem in the offensive line and defense.

How bad is it for the Redskins?

Washington couldn't practice in pads once this past week. Just not enough bodies.

Dallas is a top-five NFC team. The Redskins are going to have to defeat the Cowboys minus possibly four starting offensive linemen. Already ruled out is left tackle Trent Williams, the Redskins' best offensive lineman, and center Spencer Long. Right guard Brandon Scheff is doubtful and right tackle Morgan Morse is questionable. The Cowboys have 21 sacks. Only five teams have more sacks. Demarcus Lawrence is second in the NFL in sacks with 9 1/2. David Irving has three sacks in two games since coming back from a four-game suspension.

The Redskins need to run the ball - or at least keep the threat of a run game - in order to slow down Dallas' pass rush. Washington, though, is just a mediocre running team and that was with a healthy offensive line. They don't have a star running back. It's hard not to believe the Cowboys' well-coached defense isn't going to control the line of scrimmage.

Washington also has key defensive players injured. Jonathan Allen, the team's best run-stopper, is out. So is linebacker Mason Foster. Ezekiel Elliott is off his best game of the season rushing for 174 yards and catching a 72-yard screen pass to give him three touchdowsn against the 49ers last Sunday. Elliott is running wild now knowing a six-game suspension may come at any time. I doubt the Redskins can effectively contain Elliott.

This is going to make Dak Prescott deadly in play-action. The Redskins' secondary is beat-up. Cornerbacks Josh Norman and Bashuad Breeland have been battling injuries. They are going to have a tough time keeping up with Dez Bryant.

(Editor's note: Stephen Nover has beaten the NFL in 21 of 23 seasons. Fresh off a 5-1 college football Saturday, Stephen has five NFL plays today in addition to this free selection headed by his Sunday Night Game of the Month.)