Technically speaking (although certainly not realistically) the Cowboys could still win the NFC East. Just technically.
It’s hard to believe given where we were a few weeks ago, but the Cowboys’ recent wins have kept them alive in the NFC playoff picture. While creeping back into the last wild card spot is the more attainable goal, Dallas could still technically win the NFC East if fortune smiles upon them. For that to happen, specific things have to start falling in place this week.
Despite their 5-7 overall record, the Cowboys have managed to go 3-1 within the division. Their sweep of the Giants and upset win over the Commanders two weeks ago have help give Dallas this alternative, albeit highly unlikely, path to the postseason.
The problem is, of course, the 10-2 Philadelphia Eagles. Not only are they running away with the NFC East, Philly is starting to look like one of the best teams in the entire league. And with a cupcake opponent this Sunday in the Carolina Panthers, odds are that they’ll get the win that puts the final, long-assumed nail in the Cowboys’ chances of repeating as division champions.
Current NFC East Standings
- Philadelphia Eagles 10-2 (3-0, 6-2 vs NFC)
- Washington Commanders 8-5 (2-2 in division, 5-3)
- Dallas Cowboys 5-7 (3-1, 3-5)
- New York Giants 2-10 (0-5, 1-8)
It’s simple; the Cowboys have to go 5-0 and the Eagles 0-5 over the remainder of the regular season. That would leave them tied at 10-7 overall, split the season series, and give Dallas the NFC East with a 5-1 division record versus 3-3 for Philly. It’s the longest of shots, especially with Carolina and the Giants still to come on the Eagles’ schedule.
The Cowboys winning five more, not to mention beating Philadelphia in Week 17, is pretty a far-fetched notion as well. But at least it’s still on the table, at least for a few more days. But in the highly-expected event of the Eagles beating the Panthers this Sunday, then Dallas’ only remaining road to the playoffs will be fighting their way back into a wild card spot.
Along with the rematch with Philadelphia, Monday night’s game against Cincinnati is a big obstacle left on Dallas’ schedule. The Bengals are one of the better 4-8 teams you’ll ever see, losing multiple nail-biters against the likes of Baltimore, Kansas City, and Pittsburgh. If their latest letdown breaks their spirit, the Cowboys might be able to take advantage.
Elsewhere in the NFC East, Washington has the week off with a late bye. The Giants host the Saints in a fairly meaningless game. New Orleans seems to be fighting since their head coaching change, while New York hasn’t shown much of any. It will likely be another shovel full of dirt on their season.
