Dallas Cowboys’ Playoff Aspirations Tested by Tough Schedule
The Dallas Cowboys are currently in the playoff conversation, but the question remains: are they contenders or pretenders? Following a decisive 33-16 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders on Monday Night Football, the Cowboys have positioned themselves as “in the hunt” for the NFL Playoffs, with just seven games left in the regular season.
A Promising Return from the Bye Week
After a much-needed bye week, the Cowboys returned to the field with renewed energy, showcasing a performance that reminded fans of their potential. Quarterback Dak Prescott and offensive linemen, including center Cooper Beebe, appeared revitalized, contributing to a cohesive offensive effort that overwhelmed the Raiders. This win has raised expectations, but it also begs the question of which version of the Cowboys will show up as the season progresses.
When the Cowboys are firing on all cylinders, they can be a formidable force in the league. Yet, inconsistency has been a recurring theme this season, casting doubt on their playoff viability. As Brad Gagnon from Bleacher Report points out, the Cowboys possess the talent of a contender, harkening back to their successful 12-win season two years ago. Despite the challenges of injuries that plagued the team in 2024, their recent return to health has sparked glimpses of their capabilities.
Challenging Games Ahead
However, the road ahead is fraught with challenges. The Cowboys face a daunting schedule that could make or break their playoff hunt. This Sunday, they go head-to-head with the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles, a matchup that promises to be a true test. Just days later, they will take on the AFC Champion Kansas City Chiefs on Thanksgiving Day, followed by a primetime clash against the high-scoring Detroit Lions the following week.
This grueling stretch will not only gauge the team’s resilience but also provide insight into their true potential as they aim to secure a playoff spot. Gagnon’s assessment underscores the uphill battle: “Verdict: Pretender. Altogether, the Cowboys have won just 11 of their last 28 games.”
Upcoming Schedule Breakdown
Here’s a closer look at the Cowboys’ remaining schedule:
WEEK 12: Dallas Cowboys vs. Philadelphia Eagles | FOX | 4:25 p.m. ET
WEEK 13: Dallas Cowboys vs. Kansas City Chiefs (Thanksgiving) | CBS | 4:30 p.m. ET
WEEK 14: Dallas Cowboys at Detroit Lions (TNF) | Prime Video | 8:20 p.m. ET
WEEK 15: Dallas Cowboys vs. Minnesota Vikings (SNF) | NBC | 8:20 p.m. ET
WEEK 16: Dallas Cowboys vs. Los Angeles Chargers | FOX | 1:00 p.m. ET
WEEK 17: Dallas Cowboys at Washington Commanders (Christmas) | Netflix | 1:00 p.m. ET
WEEK 18: Dallas Cowboys at New York Giants | TBD Flex Game
As the Cowboys navigate this challenging slate, their playoff hopes hang delicately in the balance. The performances in these upcoming games will ultimately determine if they can remain in contention or if they will succumb to the pressures of a demanding schedule.
