The Cowboys are, more than likely, going to need to finish 13-4 to have any semblance of hope in capturing the prize. Running the table would be ideal, and still might not even be enough, but in order to finish as the No. 1 NFC seed, they can likely afford just one more loss. That future defeat certainly can’t come in Week 14 or Week 17.
The pursuit is, again in all likelihood, over if they lose either against the Philadelphia Eagles or even the Detroit Lions. But even with a near-flawless execution of their remaining gauntlet, Dallas will need assistance to make their way to the top of the totem. Here’s a look at the most influential contests that Dallas won’t be a part of, but need to be intently watching the results of.