Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys are gearing up to break a two-game losing streak as they head into Week 11, following their bye week, to take on Geno Smith and the Las Vegas Raiders in a “Monday Night Football” showdown. Currently sitting at 3-5-1 for the 2025 NFL season, the Cowboys are looking to bounce back after recent defeats against the Denver Broncos and Arizona Cardinals.
Despite the challenging circumstances, Prescott has guided the Cowboys to boast one of the NFL’s most formidable offenses, averaging 378.4 total yards per game, ranking fourth in the league, and accumulating 257.8 passing yards, placing them third. This impressive performance has been achieved despite a series of injuries impacting key offensive players, including CeeDee Lamb and several members of the offensive line. However, concerns remain surrounding the health of offensive lineman Tyler Smith, who is crucial to Prescott’s protection.
Tyler Smith, the 24-year-old first-round draft pick from the 2022 NFL Draft, has made a significant impact since joining the Cowboys, becoming a starter right away. Over four seasons, he has cemented his status as one of the league’s top guards, earning two Pro Bowl selections and a Second Team All-Pro nod. Prior to the season, Smith signed a substantial four-year, $96 million extension, solidifying his future with the team.
Unfortunately, Smith faced a setback when he sustained a knee injury during the Week 4 tie against the Packers, which kept him sidelined for the subsequent game against the Jets and a significant portion of the contest with the Panthers. Since Week 6, he has been listed as limited in practice but managed to play in the last three games for the Cowboys.
Even with a bye week to recuperate, Smith has reappeared on the injury report ahead of the pivotal matchup against the Raiders, being listed as a limited participant in Thursday’s practice. Although it is anticipated that he will take the field in Week 11, his status remains uncertain, which might once again leave Prescott without vital protection.
The Cowboys are set to clash with the Raiders at 8:15 p.m. ET on ESPN, and fans are hopeful for a strong performance to turn the season around.