Dallas Cowboys Set for Unexpected Christmas Clash with Commanders
As the regular season approaches its conclusion, the Dallas Cowboys and Washington Commanders gear up for a surprising Christmas Day matchup in Week 17. Both NFC East rivals find themselves unexpectedly sidelined from postseason contention, a scenario that seemed unlikely when the season began. The Cowboys, who faced playoff heartbreak in 2024, were anticipated to be strong contenders this year with a healthy Dak Prescott at the helm. Meanwhile, the Commanders had high hopes following their run to the NFC Championship Game last season under head coach Dan Quinn.
Rivalry Without High Stakes
While the stakes may not be as high as originally hoped, the rivalry between these teams guarantees an entertaining showdown. Christmas Day will see them clash, bringing their competitive spirit to the forefront. Fans are curious to see how the matchup will unfold, especially with the unique circumstances both teams find themselves in.
Cowboys Favored Against a Struggling Commanders Team
Heading into the game, the Cowboys have been established as a seven-point favorite, a line that reflects the challenges faced by the Commanders rather than Dallas’ own performance.
Spread: Dallas -7.0
Over/Under: 50.5
Moneyline: DAL -340
The Commanders’ season has been marred by injuries, leading them to rely on veteran quarterback Josh Johnson, who at 39, hasn’t started a game since 2021. With Jayden Daniels already sidelined and Marcus Mariota now nursing a hand and quad injury, Johnson steps into a challenging situation under center.
An Unpredictable Matchup
It’s easy to view Johnson’s starting role as a disadvantage for Washington, potentially signaling an easy victory for the Cowboys. However, this narrative might oversimplify the dynamics at play.
Dallas has struggled against quarterbacks throughout the season, with notable missteps against players like Russell Wilson, who put up significant numbers against their defense shortly before being benched. They also faced challenges containing Jacoby Brissett when he filled in for an injured Kyler Murray earlier in the year. Given these factors, fans should prepare for a competitive game rather than a straightforward Cowboys win.
Potential Outcomes and Expectations
Ultimately, while the Cowboys possess a potent offense capable of securing a win, observers should brace themselves for a tense matchup. Defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus may once again find himself in a precarious position, as the team grapples with its defensive inconsistencies.
As the Cowboys and Commanders prepare to meet on this festive occasion, the spirit of rivalry and unpredictability will be on full display, offering fans a chance to witness football drama in a unique holiday setting.
