Cowboys Week 9 rooting guide: 8 matchups that matter on Dallas’ bye week

A look at the Week 9 schedule finds several games that could have short and long-term impact on the NFC playoff picture and Dallas in particular. | From @KDDrummondNFL

The Cowboys are sitting at home, watching the majority of the league do battle while they lick their wounds and ready for the season’s second half. A 6-2 record through eight games when their franchise QB has only been available for three games is a feat unto itself. Even better, among the 14 teams currently in playoff position, Dallas has faced the second-toughest schedule at .538. They also have a win over the team with the toughest schedule, the New York Giants at .549.

So what does Dallas do during the bye? Root for results that will help make their path to and through the playoffs easier. The Philadelphia Eagles played on Thursday and won again, increasing their record to 8-0, with a win in hand over Cooper Rush and Co.  The rest of the Week 9 schedule is below. Here’s who fans should be cheering for.