Jaguars vs. Cowboys Prediction, Odds & NFL Best Bets for 08/12

How to Watch Jaguars vs. Cowboys

• Where: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
• When: Saturday, August 12, 2023, 5:00 PM ET
• Where to Watch: NFL+
• Spread: Jacksonville Jaguars (-4) vs Dallas Cowboys (+4)
• Over/Under: 37.5

Last season, Trevor Lawrence and the Jags achieved nine victories, with their cohesive offense securing them a spot in the playoffs. 

This year, they aim to make the playoffs consecutively for the first time in this century. 

Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys have consistently set high standards for their team. 

Given their impressive record of 12 wins over the last two seasons, they are undoubtedly eyeing a third consecutive playoff appearance this season.

So this clash on Sunday could well give some clues as to how each team's seasons will pan out over the coming months with the 2023 regular season getting underway in two weeks.

This Jaguars team is brimming with young talent and has high aspirations for the franchise's future. 

With the majority of last season's roster returning, the atmosphere in their camp remains drama-free, emphasizing continued growth with the current lineup.

Defensively, the Jaguars have some areas for improvement. Dawuane Smoot's injury from last year hasn't fully healed, making his availability for the season's start uncertain. 

This scenario creates opportunities for other players to make their mark on the defensive front. Young talents like Erick Hallet, Gregory Junior, and Montaric Brown are all eager to establish themselves.

On the offensive front, it remains to be seen who will start and get playtime on Saturday. 

However, it's anticipated that Trevor Lawrence will be on the sidelines. Even so, Jacksonville shouldn’t have too much trouble putting points up against this Dallas defense

It's already been announced that Dak Prescott won't take the field in this matchup which paves the way for Cooper Rush and Will Grier to split playtime. Both backup quarterbacks have a solid track record and have seen regular season action before.

Additionally, the Cowboys face uncertainty in the running back position, with Ezekiel Elliot currently a free agent. 

Malik Davis is poised for an expanded role this season, and fans are eager to witness his potential big runs on Saturday. 

This situation also creates an opportunity for competition in the running back position, which bodes well for Dallas. 

Another point of consideration is Dallas's kicking scenario. Brandon Aubrey is the lone kicker listed on the Cowboys' roster, joining them from the USFL.

Predicting the outcome of this game is challenging. The Jaguars boast young talent who have already made their mark, yet they could still see significant playtime in the preseason's opening week. 

Conversely, the Cowboys, backed by their fervent fanbase, will field solid backups this Saturday and are hungry for a victory, preseason or otherwise.

We're leaning towards the Cowboys when considering the spread for our Jaguars vs. Cowboys prediction. 

This game, which seems evenly matched, shouldn't have a spread larger than a field goal. Playing at home with two promising backup quarterbacks, the Cowboys present an intriguing option. 

With a spread of +4, taking a chance on the Dallas money line could be a bold move for those looking to up the ante.

We also feel the Cowboys' team total of 16.5 is on the conservative side. 

Given the capabilities of Cooper Rush and Will Grier, we anticipate the Cowboys managing at least two touchdowns and a field goal. 

As a result, we suggest considering the Cowboys' team total to exceed 16.5 points at odds of (-120).

Jaguars vs. Cowboys Picks

• ⭐ NFL Best Bets 1: Dallas to Win on the ML (+160) at BetMGM
• ⭐ NFL Best Bets 2 : Dallas over 16.5 points (-110) at Draftkings
• ⭐ NFL Best Bets3 : Dallas +4.5 (-112)  at FanDuel