Thanksgiving Bonus

Vikings at Cowboys
Texas Stadium, Irving , Texas
Thursday, Nov. 26

Overview: The Vikings (10-1) are looking to stay in the lead for home-field advantage throughout the NFC playoffs. The Cowboys (8-3) are feeling pretty good about themselves, but this Thanksgiving Day battle will give them an idea of where they truly stand in the conference.

Viking objectives: No opponent has been able to stop Minnesota’s offensive machine. The Vikings are averaging 31.6 points per game. Much of their success has come from three-WR sets, which they use often. They will look to take advantage of what is normally a solid Dallas secondary. However, CB Deion Sanders may not be 100 percent after re-injuring his toe. If he can’t go, CB’s Kevin Smith and Charlie Williams will have their hands full.

Cowboy objectives: Dallas has been depending on Emmitt Smith this season and will look for him to have a big day against a very solid Viking run defense. Through the air, the Cowboys like to spread it around, something QB Troy Aikman has been doing well. He connected with 10 different receivers in Week 12.

Matchups to watch: Viking UT John Randle (seven sacks) moves all around and is tough to keep track of. DRE Derrick Alexander (7 1/2 sacks) will be in for a battle vs. top Cowboy OLT Larry Allen.

By the numbers: The Cowboys are 20-9-1 in Thanksgiving Day games. In the 1990’s, Dallas is 6-2 straight-up and 5-2-1 vs. the spread on Thanksgiving. … The Vikings are 3-1 straight-up on Thanksgiving.

Key injuries: Check the status of the following Cowboys: Sanders (toe) and OG Everitt McIver (knee).

Key fantasy matchup: Any one of the Viking receivers is capable of coming up with a big play at any time. Their chances could be increased if Sanders is not 100 percent healthy.

Game preview and depth charts were compiled as of Nov. 22