Cowboy Up!

73.3.

That's the average combined total scored between the Cowboys and Giants the last three times they've met in Dallas.

Tonight, they meet there again with Bovada's total listed at 49½. So with the history of this series, especially in Texas, it's hard to avoid taking the over tonight.

Dallas does have a new defensive coordinator in long-time guru Monte Kiffin, but their health right now is in question, particularly Jay Ratliff, who may well miss the game, while end Anthony Spencer returns from knee surgery.

In the long run, Dallas' defense may be OK.  But tonight, with the history of this rivalry, the health of the Cowboys, and Eli Manning, Victor Cruz, Hakeem Nicks & Co on the other side, this shapes up to be another game where the Giants will not only take their chances to score, but will do so several times.

On the other side of the spectrum, there's the Giants defense, ranked second-to-last in yards allowed last season. They tried to help themselves through the draft, but I rarely look for rookies to make an immediate impact. So second round pick Johnathan Hankins may eventually give Justin Tuck and Jason Pierre-Paul some relief, but not quite yet.

Dallas will also be looking to take their shots deep and have just the threat to be successful with Dez Bryant possibly primed -- if he keesps his head screwed on right -- for a breakthrough season. He also has a healthy Miles Austin alongside him, and Tony Romo is always a threat to make something big happen.

Dallas will also have DeMarco Murray ready for his second season as the Cowboys runningback, with Bill Callahan now calling the plays for the Cowboys offensively. 

This series also hasn't just been a high-scoring one in Dallas as of late. Notice by using the Bovada data tool on the Home page that the over has hit in seven of the last 10 games overall. Some Vegas books have already put this one at or above 50, so take advantage of Bovada's deal now and jump on the over.

My play:  New York Giants at Dallas   over 49.

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UPDATE:

Result ... Dallas 36 New York Giants 31     Total points = 67     over covers

Steve Soprano is the founder and handicapper at www.premierticketsports.com.