Cowboys Playoffs: 3 opening thoughts on first playoff rival

The Dallas Cowboys are NFC East champions following their win 38-10 win over the Washington Commanders in Week 18. Despite a slow start that included a blocked field goal and a tipped interception, the Cowboys looked extremely efficient on offense as Dak Prescott had another elite performance, throwing for four touchdowns, including two to CeeDee […]

Mauricio Rodriguez — Dallas Cowboys News Writer
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Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) attempts a pass against the Washington Commanders during the first half at FedExField.
Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

The Dallas Cowboys are NFC East champions following their win 38-10 win over the Washington Commanders in Week 18.

Despite a slow start that included a blocked field goal and a tipped interception, the Cowboys looked extremely efficient on offense as Dak Prescott had another elite performance, throwing for four touchdowns, including two to CeeDee Lamb. 

While the defense had its ups and downs, they had three takeaways including two interceptions from Donovan Wilson and DaRon Bland and a forced fumble by Jourdan Lewis. In other words, the team cruised to its 12th win of the year. 

That means they'll be the second seed in the NFC and are guaranteed to play at least two home games in the playoffs (provided they win the Wild Card Round). Speaking of, their opening postseason rival is already known. 

The Cowboys will get the Green Bay Packers in the first round of the playoffs. Below are some way-too-early thoughts on the matchup.

First read: 3 quick thoughts on the Cowboys' first playoff rival

  1. The Packers are dreadful on defense. Joe Barry's unit ranks 28th in DVOA, which is the worst for any playoff team. In other words, it's the most favorable matchup the offense could've asked for. They're poor against the run and struggle in coverage against solid offenses. Dak Prescott should have himself a day at AT&T Stadium with his offensive line fully back next weekend. 
  2. The elephant in the room: This team is no longer quarterbacked by Aaron Rodgers. Fans shouldn't look at the Packers as that boogeyman of old, the Green Bay squad that seemed to own Dallas year after year. However, Jordan Love is looking pretty good in his first year as a starter, ranking 12th in passer rating entering Week 18 and 10th in quarterback efficiency per RBSDM.com. 
  3. Mike McCarthy couldn't ask for better motivation. He'll host the team that cut ties with him for the second time since he left the Packers and he'll try to avenge last year's bitter welcome back party to Lambeau Field. With the way he's calling plays for one of the best passing offenses in the league, McCarthy is in for a fun duel against Matt LaFleur.

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