Concerns for the Dallas Cowboys as They Clinch Playoff Spot
The Dallas Cowboys secured a playoff spot just before their game against the Buffalo Bills. However, their focus was not on this achievement after suffering a 31-10 loss. The defeat dropped their record to 10-4 and raised concerns about their path to the Super Bowl. The Cowboys may need to win three playoff games on the road, provided the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers don’t lose in the final weeks. Quarterback Dak Prescott expressed indifference towards qualifying for the postseason, emphasizing the team’s need to focus on improving their performances each week.
Playoff Hopes and Challenges
The Cowboys still have a chance to win the NFC East, but they will need the Eagles to lose two of their final four games while not dropping any of their own. If the Cowboys and Eagles finish with the same record, the Eagles could claim the division title based on a better conference record. Additionally, the Cowboys need the 49ers to lose two of their final three games to secure home-field advantage for the playoffs due to their Week 5 loss to San Francisco.
The Home vs. Road Disparity
The Cowboys’ performance at home has been exceptional, with a 7-0 record and impressive offensive statistics. They have averaged 39.9 points and 431.7 yards per game at AT&T Stadium. However, their road games have been less successful, with a 3-4 record and significantly lower offensive numbers, averaging 21.7 points and 304.6 yards per game. The disparity is evident in their point differential, turnover margin, and overall performance. Coach Mike McCarthy acknowledged the gap and emphasized the team’s need to address their road game struggles.
Challenges Ahead
The Cowboys’ upcoming games against the Miami Dolphins and Detroit Lions will test their ability to perform on the road against teams with strong rushing offenses. If they make it to the playoffs, they could face the Eagles or the 49ers, both of whom have formidable run offenses. Cornerback Jourdan Lewis acknowledged the team’s weaknesses and expressed confidence in their ability to address them. However, the Cowboys’ offense also faced challenges in their recent loss, with Dak Prescott failing to throw a touchdown pass and converting only 5 of 13 third-down opportunities.
The Road to the Super Bowl
Despite clinching a playoff spot, the Cowboys are aware that their road performances need improvement. Their goal is to become “road warriors” throughout the playoffs to have a chance at reaching the Super Bowl. The last time the Cowboys had a long playoff streak was in the 1990s, when they won three Super Bowls. To replicate that success, they will need to overcome their road struggles and create their own signature road moments. The Cowboys have two more road games in the regular season before potentially facing the Washington Commanders in the playoffs.
Overall, the Cowboys’ focus is on addressing their road game challenges and improving their performances to have a shot at Super Bowl success. The playoff spot is just the beginning, and they understand the importance of performing at their best in every game.