Five things to know about the Cowboys’ ‘Monday Night Football’ opponent

The Dallas Cowboys and Tennessee Titans are both in a desperate spot as we enter Week 9 of this NFL schedule.

Dallas is 3-4 and occupies third place in the NFC East standings, trailing the Philadelphia Eagles (4-4) and Washington Redskins (5-2).

Tennessee, meanwhile, is a game back of first place in the AFC South standings, trailing the Houston Texans (5-3).

Here are five things to know about the Titans before they visit AT&T Stadium in Arlington on Monday.

1. In the middle of a losing streak

After a 3-1 start that included wins over the Jaguars, Eagles and Texans, the Titans have lost their past three games. The last two of which took place at home against AFC teams (the Ravens and Chargers).

2. Different trade deadline approach

The Cowboys made a splashy move at the NFL’s trade deadline, acquiring wide receiver Amari Cooper from the Tennessee Titans in exchange for a first-round draft pick.

Before the deadline, the Titans also lacked talent at the position (just one receiver has over 30 receptions thus far), but their front office did not successfully obtain any number of the wideouts on the market.

3. A struggling quarterback

He’s dealt with injuries, but Marcus Marriota, a former No. 2 overall pick might officially on the hotseat. He’s only played in five games this season, but still has thrown just three touchdown passes against 5 interceptions.

4. Points are a problem

You might expect a team with a struggling quarterback and inconsistent running attack might have a hard time puttign up points. You’d be correct. The Titans rank 30th in the NFL in scoring offense (15.1).

5. First-year coach and improved defense

This is former Houston Texans assistant Mike Vrabel’s first year as a head coach. And his ability to make a defense better is evident. The Titans currently rank third in the NFL in scoring defense (18.1).