Cowboys face uphill battle for playoffs without Dak Prescott

In Arlington, Texas, the Dallas Cowboys are striving to improve their health and playoff chances following a critical stretch of games. After a mini-bye week and a victory over the New York Giants on Thanksgiving, the Cowboys find themselves at a 5-7 record. The team's recent success includes back-to-back wins, a much-needed shift after enduring a five-game losing streak. However, their hopes for a playoff rally are overshadowed by the absence of star quarterback Dak Prescott, who underwent season-ending surgery due to a torn hamstring. Currently, the responsibility of leading the offense falls to Cooper Rush, who has stepped in effectively over the past two games. Consistency in the lineup is crucial, as valuable players like perennial All-Pro right guard Zack Martin look to return from respective injuries. Additionally, 2023 All-Pro receiver CeeDee Lamb is dealing with a shoulder issue that limited his play against the Giants, raising concerns about the chemistry on the field between him and cornerback DaRon Bland, who has also faced injury setbacks this season. Furthermore, despite showing improvements, the Cowboys' offense still struggles within the red zone, recording the second-worst touchdown percentage in the league during crucial moments. It is imperative for them to enhance their scoring capabilities as they gear up to face strong opponents like the Cincinnati Bengals and quarterback Joe Burrow. If the Cowboys can regain health and build momentum, there remains a slim chance for them to secure a playoff spot but achieving such a goal requires a collective effort and overcoming significant obstacles in the weeks to come.