The Dallas Cowboys have something special brewing on the outside - and no, it's not just one star wide receiver lighting it up. It's two. CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens have been a nightmare for opposing defenses all season long, and right now, they’re making a strong case as the most dangerous wide receiver duo in the league.
What’s made Lamb and Pickens so lethal isn’t just their individual talent - it’s how consistently they’ve produced, no matter who’s lined up across from them. Two weeks ago, they carved up a disciplined Eagles secondary.
Then, just four days later, they followed that up with a combined 200 yards on 13 catches, a touchdown, and a two-point conversion against the Chiefs. These aren’t bottom-tier defenses - these are playoff-caliber units, and Lamb and Pickens made them look ordinary.
Now, the Cowboys turn their attention to the Detroit Lions, who are coming off a rough Thanksgiving showing. Jordan Love matched a career-high with four touchdown passes against them, and while the Packers have some pieces, they don’t bring the same offensive firepower as Dallas. Making matters worse for Detroit, they’ll be without one of their top defenders.
Terrion Arnold Out for the Season
The Lions placed rookie cornerback Terrion Arnold on injured reserve with a shoulder injury and later confirmed he’ll undergo season-ending surgery. It’s a tough blow for Detroit and a disappointing end to what had been a promising second season for the 2024 first-round pick. But from the Cowboys’ perspective, it opens up a major advantage in the passing game.
Without Arnold, the Lions will lean on a trio of corners: D.J. Reed, Amik Robertson, and Rock Ya-Sin.
Reed is the most experienced and consistent of the group, but he’s got his hands full here. His 67.1 coverage grade (per Pro Football Focus) ranks 38th out of 110 qualified corners, and he’s been vulnerable to chunk plays, allowing 13.2 yards per catch.
At just 5'9", he’ll also be giving up significant size to both Lamb and Pickens, who excel at winning contested balls and creating separation downfield.
Mismatch City on the Outside
The Cowboys won’t hesitate to test Reed, but the real mismatches could come on the other side of the field. Amik Robertson has had a rough go in coverage this season - allowing a 108.2 passer rating and 13.1 yards per reception.
His coverage grade sits at 52.7, which ranks 87th among cornerbacks. He’s started eight games and has moved between the slot and outside, but at 5'8", he’s giving up six inches to Lamb and seven to Pickens.
That’s a tall task - literally and figuratively - especially against receivers who thrive on physicality and timing.
Then there’s Rock Ya-Sin, who brings more size at 6'0" but also comes with some question marks. He’s on his fourth team in four years and has battled injuries throughout his career. While he’s held up reasonably well this season, he doesn’t have the pedigree or consistency to inspire confidence against a duo like Lamb and Pickens.
The X-Factor: Time for Dak
Of course, none of this matters if Dak Prescott doesn’t have time to throw. But the Cowboys have shown all season that they can neutralize elite pass rushers.
They’ve faced the likes of Micah Parsons, Maxx Crosby, Chris Jones, and Jalen Carter - and none of them managed to take over the game. That’s a testament to the offensive line and Prescott’s ability to get the ball out quickly and decisively.
Detroit’s Aidan Hutchinson is a game-wrecker in his own right, and keeping him in check will be a top priority. But if the Cowboys can give Prescott a clean pocket, there’s every reason to believe Lamb and Pickens will put on another show.
This is a matchup that tilts heavily in Dallas’ favor. With a banged-up secondary and no Terrion Arnold, the Lions are going to have to get creative - and fast - if they want to slow down the Cowboys’ passing attack. Otherwise, Lamb and Pickens could be in for another big night.