By Dallas Cowboys Insider Staff
The Stakes: One Game, Massive Implications
The regular season is nearing its end, and the Dallas Cowboys have played their way back into control of their own destiny. At 9-6, Coach Cody Hirsch’s squad travels to face the Washington Commanders in a Week 16 matchup that will go a long way in determining whether Dallas spends January in the playoffs — or watching from home.
A win moves the Cowboys to 10-6, keeping them firmly planted in the NFC Wild-Card race and within striking distance of the division-leading Eagles. A loss would tighten the pack below them, leaving Dallas vulnerable heading into the finale.
“This is the kind of game that shows what you’re made of,” Hirsch said after Thursday’s practice. “You fight all year for opportunities like this — now it’s about finishing.”
From Survive to Thrive: Dallas’s Late-Season Push
The Cowboys’ path to 9-6 has been a season-long test of resilience.
Early injuries, lineup shuffles, and tough road losses left Dallas sitting at 4-5 after Week 9. But since then, the team has flipped the script — winning five of its last six behind a defense that’s found its edge again and an offense that’s grown into a balanced, explosive threat.
Joe Milton has settled into command at quarterback, Jaydon Blue has blossomed into one of the most dynamic rookie running backs in the league, and the defense, led by Captain Damone Clark, has rediscovered its swagger.
Now, one game stands between Dallas and a postseason berth that once seemed out of reach.
Defense Sets the Tone
If there’s a reason the Cowboys are still in the thick of things, it’s their defense.
Over the last six weeks, Dallas has forced 11 turnovers and ranked near the top of the NFC in sacks, thanks to the relentless front of Donovan Ezeiruaku, Marshawn Kneeland, and Kenny Clark.
Ezeiruaku, the rookie phenom, has made life miserable for opposing quarterbacks with his first-step burst, while Kneeland has turned the right-edge spot into a position of strength, blending power and technique.
“They complement each other perfectly,” Hirsch said. “Donovan’s speed creates chaos, and Marshawn’s power cleans it up. They’re feeding off each other right now.”
Behind them, Damone Clark continues to be the heartbeat — the voice of accountability, the player who gets everyone lined up before the snap and delivers the tone-setting hits after it.
“Damone’s our general,” rookie Shemar James said. “When he talks, the whole defense listens.”
And in the secondary, the Cowboys’ No-Fly Zone has emerged as one of the most balanced units in football. Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland remain elite, while rookie Shavon Revel Jr. has solidified the nickel role with instinctive play and remarkable poise for a first-year corner.
“They’re playing connected football,” defensive coordinator Dan Quinn said. “When the rush and coverage move in rhythm, that’s when you know you’ve got something special.”
Milton and the Offense Finding Their Groove
On the other side of the ball, the Cowboys’ offense is finally clicking the way Coach Hirsch envisioned back in August.
Quarterback Joe Milton has grown from gunslinger to field general. The arm strength has always been there, but the decision-making, timing, and composure have caught up. Over the last three games, Milton has thrown seven touchdowns to just one interception while completing nearly 68 percent of his passes.
His chemistry with George Pickens continues to define the passing game — their back-shoulder timing has become one of the league’s toughest covers. CeeDee Lamb, back from suspension, gives Dallas its explosive edge again, and Jonathan Mingo remains a steady third option who wins on intermediate routes.
But the heartbeat of this offense might just be Jaydon Blue. The rookie’s blend of patience, burst, and receiving ability has given the Cowboys balance they lacked early in the year.
“He’s our spark,” Milton said. “Anytime we need a play, Blue gives us one.”
With Javonte Williams providing downhill toughness and rookie Phil Mafah handling situational carries, the Cowboys now boast a true three-headed backfield that keeps defenses guessing.
And credit the line — Tyler Smith, Tyler Booker, and Cooper Beebe have formed the interior core of a young but disciplined group that’s allowed Dallas to control tempo late in games.
“When you can run the ball and protect your quarterback, you control everything,” Hirsch said. “That’s what we’ve built our identity around.”
Commanders Scouting Report
Washington enters at 8-7, desperate and dangerous. Head coach Ron Rivera’s group prides itself on physicality and ball control. Quarterback Sam Howell has shown steady improvement, spreading the ball to multiple receivers while leaning on a downhill run game led by Brian Robinson Jr.
The Commanders’ defensive front — still one of the most talented in football — poses the biggest challenge. Their ability to collapse pockets and clog lanes could force Dallas into uncomfortable downs if Milton and Blue can’t establish rhythm early.
“Washington’s front is legit,” said Tyler Booker. “They’re strong, disciplined, and they don’t quit on plays. We’ve got to match their physicality from the first snap.”
Keys to Victory
1. Win the Trenches
This game will be decided at the line of scrimmage. Dallas’s offensive front must neutralize Washington’s pass rush, while the defensive front needs to dominate first and second downs to keep Howell off schedule.
2. Ball Security
Turnovers swing division games. The Cowboys are 7-0 this season when they win the turnover battle — a trend that must continue.
3. Keep Milton Upright
When Milton is protected, he’s dangerous. Look for Hirsch to mix tempo and quick throws to prevent Washington from pinning its ears back.
4. Limit Explosives
The Commanders thrive on extended drives. By preventing the big play, Dallas can force Howell into mistakes and take control of field position.
5. Finish Drives
The Cowboys have moved the ball well lately but must convert red-zone trips into touchdowns. “Field goals won’t win this one,” Hirsch reminded reporters. “You’ve got to finish.”
Inside the Locker Room: Focus and Fire
The message at The Star this week has been simple: one goal, one game, one mission.
Veterans like Damone Clark, Kenny Clark, and CeeDee Lamb have led the charge in meetings, emphasizing focus and composure. Shavon Revel Jr. has spoken about preparation. Joe Milton has been steady — quiet, but locked in.
