Here’s what Detroit needs to do to defeat the Cowboys on Sunday.

In Week 6, the Lions will face the Dallas Cowboys in a matchup of last year’s

division champions.

Detroit comes off its bye week, while the Cowboys aim for their third consecutive win after victories over the Giants and Steelers in Weeks 4 and 5.

The Lions have lost six straight to Dallas, with their last win against the Cowboys occurring in the 2013 season.

For Dan Campbell’s team to break this streak against Dallas, they must execute three key strategies on Sunday.

Establish the run game early and often

Since revamping their franchise, Detroit’s primary offensive strategy has revolved around the run game. Expect this to continue against the Cowboys.

Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery form one of the NFL’s top running back duos, combining for 556 rushing yards and seven touchdowns in four games. They’ve propelled the Lions to the sixth-most rushing yards in the league and have been crucial to their 3-1 start.

I’m confident that Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson will implement a run-heavy approach against Dallas, especially since the Cowboys have allowed the ninth-most rushing yards (675) and the fifth-most rushing touchdowns (eight) in 2024.

Running the ball frequently should be a successful strategy for Detroit in this Week 6 clash.

Pressure Dak Prescott

With Prescott leading, the Cowboys have favored a pass-heavy offense this season, attempting the second-most passes in the NFL (194) and accumulating the second-most passing yards (1,358).

Therefore, I believe Detroit’s pass rush—anchored by Pro Bowl edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson—will be crucial in stifling the Cowboys’ aerial attack on Sunday. If Hutchinson can pressure Prescott consistently (which I believe he can), it will significantly aid the Lions in securing a Week 6 victory.

Limit CeeDee Lamb’s impact

Lamb is undoubtedly the Cowboys’ top offensive threat. The All-Pro receiver has 25 receptions for 378 yards and two touchdowns through five games, averaging just five catches and 75.6 yards per game. However, he can easily have a breakout performance, as seen in Weeks 2 and 4 against the Saints and Giants, where he recorded over 90 yards.

Lamb has also excelled against the Lions in the past, notably with 13 receptions and 227 yards in a Week 17 victory last season.

Detroit must do a far better job of containing him this Week 6. I believe defensive back Carlton Davis, as the team’s top cornerback, will play a vital role in this effort. If the Lions can keep Lamb in check, it will greatly enhance their chances of earning a fourth win this season.