The Dallas Cowboys will host the Washington Redskins on Monday Night Football in a rival division matchup. Washington, as expected, will be without quarterback Robert Griffin III again, which means third-string QB Colt McCoy will get the start.
Although RG3 is listed as questionable for tonight's game, it was reported this morning that he is not ready to return and will be held out of action. The Redskins (2-5) are coming off of a win against the Tennessee Titans last week thanks to McCoy's second half performance, which earned him the starting job until Griffin III returns. In relief of Kirk Cousins, McCoy was 11-of-12 passing for 128 yards and a touchdown.
But Washington's only two victories this season came against the Jaguars and Titans, which is nothing to write home about. The team also placed outside linebacker Brian Orakpo on injured reserve last week after he suffered the third torn pectoral of his career. Another starter, cornerback Tracy Porter, who has missed six games this season because of a hamstring strain, is listed as questionable for tonight, which is another blow to their defense. Starting safety Ryan Clark is banged up with shoulder and ankle injuries, but he's listed as probable.
Others on the Redskins injury report include defensive end Chris Baker (thigh), running back Alfred Morris (ankle), tackles Tyler Polumbus (knee) and Trent Williams (knee), and linebacker Perry Riley (knee). All are listed as probable and are expected to play.
Dallas' injury report is very similar. The Cowboys will be without defensive end Jack Crawford (calf) and right tackle Doug Free (foot). Free also missed last week's game against the Giants with a small fracture in his right foot, but it is believed he'll be able to return for Week 9. Prior to Free's injury, the Cowboys' offensive line was unscathed, which is a big reason for running back DeMarco Murray's success.
Everyone else for Dallas is listed as probable: quarterback Tony Romo (back), wide receiver Dez Bryant (shoulder), linebacker Bruce Carter (thigh), tackle Jeremy Parnell (chest), defensive end Anthony Spencer (knee) and safety Jakar Hamilton (not injury related).
The Cowboys boast the No. 5 ranked offense in the NFL and are likely to give the Redskins a tough time. Washington's defense is ranked 5th in the NFL in terms of total yards surrendered, but they're 25th in points per game (26.1). Tony Romo and the Cowboys offense are averaging 28 points per game, so it'll be interesting to see how the Redskins strategize against their division rival.
Tune in to ESPN tonight at 8:00 p.m. for coverage of Monday Night Football.
