As the Detroit Lions prepare to face the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday Night Football, analytics guru Sam Schwartzstein joined The Insiders to break down what fans can expect from the matchup. Schwartzstein, who has made a name for himself with advanced NFL metrics and data-driven analysis, provided insight on everything from offensive efficiency to defensive matchups.
One focus of his preview was the impact of Amon-Ra St. Brown’s questionable availability. Schwartzstein highlighted how the Lions’ passing attack may need to adjust if their star receiver is limited, using analytics to project target distribution and potential efficiency drops.
On the Cowboys’ side, Schwartzstein examined the defensive front, including edge rushers like Micah Parsons and the impact of their recent injury report. He used advanced pass-rush data to illustrate where the Lions’ offensive line might be vulnerable and which matchups could decide the game.
The segment also emphasized situational analytics: red-zone efficiency, third-down conversion tendencies, and expected points added (EPA) for both teams. Schwartzstein’s breakdown gave fans a deeper understanding of the strategic chess match behind the Thursday night spotlight.
For those looking to understand the nuances of the game beyond the box score, Schwartzstein’s analysis painted a clear picture: this isn’t just a rivalry game — it’s a tactical battle where small edges could determine the outcome.
