Very nice of the Giants to declare Brandon Jacobs out for Sunday's game so early. For Jacobs, this is a disappointing turn in a great season. He really wanted to play 16 games, but has missed two and a half of the last four. It's the smart move, though: Jacobs' most important football is ahead of him.

This allows Derrick Ward owners to start the usual backup with confidence. Ward is the type of back I love: he can do everything. His receiving ability makes him more complete of a back than Jacobs. He's not as explosive or powerful as the The Train, but he's not lacking for short-yardage ability at 235 pounds.

What a great test of strengths between Dallas' improved rush defense and the Giants offensive line. When push comes to shove, I'd still bet on New York's historical running game winning the battle. That's why Ward is ranked 14th on the updated rankings, just behind Dominic Rhodes of the Colts. Joseph Addai looks very unlikely to play. That leaves Frank Gore and Marion Barber as the biggest question marks for Sunday, with both players looking iffy at best. My gut says MBIII has the best chance to play, but he's got a tough matchup and could lose carries to "Rashard" Choice even if he plays.