Dallas Cowboys playoff outlook after Thanksgiving win over Chiefs
The Dallas Cowboys pulled off another win over the Kansas City Chiefs on Thanksgiving. Are the playoffs now a realistic goal?
The Dallas Cowboys are suddenly back in the mix. After defeating the Kansas City Chiefs 31–28 on Thanksgiving Day, Dallas improved to 6–5–1, giving them a much-needed boost in the NFC playoff picture. Their position is still precarious, but the win proves they can compete with the league’s elite, and keeps their postseason hopes alive.
The Dallas Cowboys might not make the playoffs, but I doubt many teams want to play them if they do
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) November 28, 2025
Why the Cowboys are still on the bubble
Inconsistency has been the Cowboys’ nemesis this season. Dak Prescott threw for 320 yards and two touchdowns, while George Pickens and CeeDee Lamb combined for 198 receiving yards, showing the team’s explosive potential. Yet, mistakes still creep in. Turnovers, near-interceptions, and penalties have made some games closer than they should be. Even with the Chiefs win, Dallas must tighten up to survive the final stretch.
Remaining schedule: The real test
The Cowboys’ upcoming slate doesn’t get easier, with several playoff-contending opponents remaining:
- Week 14: Thu, Dec 4 @ Detroit Lions
- Week 15: Sun, Dec 14 vs Minnesota Vikings
- Week 16: Sun, Dec 21 vs Los Angeles Chargers
- Week 17: Thu, Dec 25 @ Washington Commanders
- Week 18: Sun, Jan 4, 2026 @ New York Giants
What must happen for Dallas to make the playoffs?
- CeeDee Lamb must stay reliable. His 112-yard, one-touchdown game against Kansas City shows what he brings when focused. Drops can’t cost them critical points.
- Dak Prescott needs continued precision: The quarterback needs protection from the offensive line and a solid running game to control the clock.
- Defense must maintain discipline: The Cowboys allowed 28 points to the Chiefs, including some big plays. Key stops are crucial in tight games.
- Win the close ones: Dallas showed in this game that they can finish strong, but they need to replicate that focus against tough NFC foes.
If they can clean up mistakes and capitalize on momentum, a 9–7–1 finish could be enough for the final Wild Card spot.
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