Cowboys playing in Big Easy

Yes, it's been a strange year on the field, with visiting teams 90-87-1, not counting two neutral-site games in London. And this week's betting lines are further proof home field isn't necessarily an advantage.

Take a look, and you will find eight visitors as favorites, including tonight's matchup in the Big Easy.

Which won't be easy for either side.

The Cowboys, losers of three of the past four, have COVID-19 issues that will sideline coach Mike McCarthy among others. They also have slumped recently, though life in the NFC East has allowed them some leeway.

"It's like anything; we are far enough into this that everyone understands what we need to get done," McCarthy says of the disruptions caused by virtual meetings and various protocols. "I feel good about the prep. I think with all the change going around us, it is making our team focus tighter."

The focus for the Saints likely will be at quarterback. Since Jameis Winston's season ended on Oct. 31, they've been in scramble mode at the position and have dropped four straight games. Taysom Hill, the do-everything playmaker who had success (3-1) in 2020 when Drew Brees was hurt, figures to see more action now that he's recovered from a foot problem.

"There's nothing like playing quarterback in this league, and so certainly that requires an additional amount of energy and responsibility," Hill says. "You have a greater ability to affect the outcome of a game."

No. 10 Dallas is a 4 1/2-point favorite over No. 23 and fading New Orleans, according to FanDuel SportsBook.

Upcoming Events