The Dallas Cowboys are still technically alive in the playoff race, but barely.
At 6-7-1, Dallas enters Week 16 with just a 0.8% chance to reach the postseason, and that number could disappear Sunday against the surging Los Angeles Chargers (10-4).
Dak Prescott gives the Cowboys their best chance. He’s on pace to lead the NFL in passing yards, a first in franchise history, while guiding the league’s fourth-highest scoring offense. With CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens headlining the passing attack, Dallas has consistently moved the ball — but protection remains a concern.
The Chargers bring one of the NFL’s most disruptive pass rushes, led by Tuli Tuipulotu, and a turnover-hungry secondary anchored by Derwin James. Los Angeles has piled up interceptions during a stretch in which it has won six of its last seven games.
Dallas’ offensive line has been shaky, especially with injuries forcing lineup changes, while Los Angeles has its own protection issues. Justin Herbert has taken heavy hits all season, setting up a critical matchup between pressure and execution.
For the Cowboys, it’s simple: win, or watch the faint playoff hope finally fade.
