Cowboys vs Browns: 3 Key Matchups

OLB DeMarcus Ware vs LT Joe Thomas

I normally forgo listing Ware as being in a “key matchup” because it’s generally assumed he’s going to either beat the man blocking him, get double-teamed, or both. If there’s one offensive tackle who can at least control Ware, though, it’s Thomas. Thomas has allowed pressure on 2.2 percent of his pass snaps this year—about one-quarter the rate of Doug Free. He’s so good that Ware could go without seeing a double-team for a few snaps in a row, which is rare. Remember, Ware has rushed from the left side of the Cowboys’ defense on just 19.8 percent of his pass-rush snaps this season, so he’s going to work on Thomas for the majority of the game. If he can find a way to beat Thomas in what is probably a battle of the game’s two best players, it will go a long way in allowing Rob Ryan flexibility in attacking Brandon Weeden.