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MATCHUPS

Redskins’ pass protection vs. Dallas’ rush

The Cowboys’ 3-4 front is tied for seventh in the NFL with 24 sacks — and features several dominant players, including OLB DeMarcus Ware and NT Jay Ratliff. With Jason Campbell able to stand in the pocket more often last week, Washington put up 27 points. How the Redskins’ revamped line, specifically LT Levi Jones and RG Chad Rinehart, fare against those elite pass rushers will determine the offense’s success.

Miles Austin vs. DeAngelo Hall

The Redskins continue to give up the big play (Brandon Marshall’s touchdowns of 40 and 75 yards last week) and they’ll face another big-play threat in Austin. Since Oct. 11, the wide receiver has caught four TD passes of 49 yards or longer and has had 551 yards and six touchdowns in that five-game span. It most likely will be Hall — who has a knack for making the big play as well as for giving it up — who draws the matchup with Austin.

RB Ladell Betts vs. Cowboys’ front seven

Since taking over for Clinton Portis (concussion), Betts has proven to be more than capable, rushing for 184 yards on 41 carries in two games. The success of the running game, which also includes Rock Cartwright, is key to slowing the pass rush and was vital in Washington’s offensive success last week. Betts and the offensive line must replicate that success against Dallas’ 10th-ranked run defense.

Jason Witten vs. Redskins’ LBs

Witten is among the premier tight ends in the league. Brian Orakpo has proven to be a strong contender for defensive rookie of the year honors, breaking a Redskins rookie record with seven sacks. Though a talented pass rusher, Orakpo is not as solid in coverage and the Cowboys may look to exploit that matchup. Weak-side LB Rocky McIntosh helped shut down Eagles TE Brent Celek in Week 7 and may be deployed more often in coverage against Witten.

LT Flozell Adams vs. DE Andre Carter

Carter is having a monster season and his ability to beat Adams, who will likely play despite a sprained ankle, will be worth watching. It may be Carter’s effectiveness in the run game along with DT Albert Haynesworth’s, however, that is most vital. The Cowboys’ attack of Marion Barber, Felix Jones and Tashard Choice has been most effective running over left tackle and the left edge.

QB Jason Campbell vs. Dallas’ pass defense

Campbell was solid but missed potential big plays against Denver. If the Redskins can continue their success on the ground and slow Dallas’s pass rush, Campbell should have the time to look downfield a bit more. Then, he must connect on the home run, especially to Moss.

-- Paul Tenorio

FOUR DOWNS

Pound the rock: The Redskins’ formula for success always has been pounding the football, and that was the case last week. Now, in a physical NFC East game against its most bitter rival, Washington must look to RB Ladell Betts and the line if it is to have any success on offense. Strong, consistent pass protection for Jason Campbell will be another key for a patchwork line.

Prevent the big play: The Redskins have committed the same offense the last four games: the defense has allowed big plays. Two weeks ago, it was Michael Turner; last week, Brandon Marshall. Dallas has several game-changing threats: RBs Felix Jones and Marion Barber, and WRs Miles Austin and Roy Williams. The Redskins’ defense must focus on not allowing the home run.

Get to Romo: In the last two weeks, Dallas QB Tony Romo has been sacked nine times; the Redskins’ pass rush, behind Andre Carter and Brian Orakpo, has already equaled last season’s sack total. If the Redskins can force Romo to get the ball out earlier than he’d like, they’ll decrease his ability to find Austin and increase the likelihood of a big, game-changing turnover.

Maintain momentum: Last week’s win over Denver has boosted a team — especially an offense — that was in desperate need of something on which to build. Washington’s ability to continue its recent success early in the game could create confidence against Dallas, which has won four of its last five but is coming off an ugly 17-7 loss to Green Bay.