Cowboys - 49ers Prediction, 11/23

The Dallas Cowboys look to improve to 7-4 after their big win in Washington last week.

Here are the keys to the game for the Cowboys according to the Sporting News:

1. Play with emotion. The Cowboys have sleepwalked through much of this season in anticipation of a long playoff run. That's one reason they find themselves 6-4 and fighting just to make the playoffs. For one of the few times this season, the Cowboys played at full throttle against Washington. They were desperate because they knew a loss to the Redskins would severely damage their playoff hopes. This is no time to relax. They must play the same way or the big win over the Redskins won't mean much.

2. Generate big plays. The Cowboys are at their best when Tony Romo is slinging the ball all over the field to a talented group of receivers. When they're in sync, the Cowboys have the league's best quick-strike offense because they're so versatile. Tight end Jason Witten and wideouts Terrell Owens, Miles Austin and Roy Williams all can make big plays downfield. The more big plays, the better for this offense.

3. Don't become enamored with the pass. Offensive coordinator Jason Garrett is a former quarterback, which means he loves to throw the ball. But he needs to make Marion Barber an active part of the offense. He's a physical, slashing runner who can ignite the crowd and the team. Garrett too often loses sight of that and doesn't get Barber involved enough. Barber needs 20 carries a game because he's the kind of back who wears down a defense with his physical style. He carried the ball 10 times in the fourth quarter against Washington.

Prediction: Cowboys 28, 49ers 14