Full Breakdown
Cowboys and Commanders Face Off in Disappointing Christmas Day Showdown
12/25/2025, 6:09:20 AM
Overview of the Matchup
On December 25, 2025, the Dallas Cowboys (6-8-1) will visit the Washington Commanders (4-11) at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, for a Week 17 matchup devoid of playoff implications. Both teams have been eliminated from postseason contention, making this game a contest of pride rather than a fight for a playoff spot. The Cowboys are favored by seven points, with the over/under set at 50.5 points.
Key Player Updates
The Commanders will start Josh Johnson at quarterback due to injuries to both Jayden Daniels, who has been shut down for the season, and Marcus Mariota, who is dealing with a hand and quad injury. Johnson's performance has been limited, having thrown for only 43 yards and an interception in his last outing. Meanwhile, the Cowboys will rely on Dak Prescott, who has had a strong season, throwing for over 4,175 yards and 28 touchdowns.
Team Performance and Statistics
The Cowboys boast one of the league's top offenses, ranking fifth in points scored (28.3 PPG) and second in total yardage (393.1 YPG). However, their defense has struggled, allowing an average of 30.3 points per game, which ranks second-worst in the NFL. The Commanders, on the other hand, have had a disappointing season, particularly on defense, where they rank 31st in points allowed (26.9 PPG) and 27th in total yardage allowed (382.7 YPG).
Betting Insights
The betting landscape reflects the Cowboys' offensive strength against the Commanders' defensive weaknesses. The Cowboys are 11-4 to the over in their last 15 games, while the Commanders have also leaned towards high-scoring games, going over in five of their last seven. The SportsLine Projection Model suggests that the total points scored could exceed 60, indicating a high-scoring affair.
Official Statements & Responses
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones expressed disappointment over the team's season, stating, “We all underachieved, really.” Coach Brian Schottenheimer emphasized the importance of finishing strong, saying, “We want to win and to sustain some success.” Conversely, Commanders coach Dan Quinn acknowledged the challenges faced this season, stating, “I never want a season like this. Never again. But I also know that I don't want to waste it.”
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have pointed out that both teams have underperformed relative to expectations. The Cowboys, despite having a potent offense, have struggled to convert that into wins, while the Commanders have faced significant injury challenges that have derailed their season. Analysts have noted that the matchup lacks the excitement initially anticipated, given the absence of key players and playoff stakes.
What's Next
As both teams look to conclude their seasons on a positive note, the outcome of this game may influence offseason decisions, including potential coaching changes and roster adjustments. The Cowboys aim to finish with a winning record in the division, while the Commanders will seek to build momentum for the next season.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We all underachieved, really,” — Jerry Jones, Owner, Dallas Cowboys
- “I never want a season like this. Never again. But I also know that I don't want to waste it,” — Dan Quinn, Head Coach, Washington Commanders
- “We want to win and to sustain some success.” — Brian Schottenheimer, Head Coach, Dallas Cowboys
This Christmas Day matchup between the Cowboys and Commanders, while lacking playoff implications, promises to be a showcase of pride and rivalry in the NFC East.
