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Christmas NFL Tripleheader: Cowboys, Commanders Clash Amid Injuries

12/26/2025

38 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Cowboys Face Commanders

The NFL Christmas Day tripleheader opens with the Dallas Cowboys facing the Washington Commanders at 1 p.m. ET.
Both teams have been eliminated from playoff contention.
The Commanders will start 39-year-old quarterback Josh Johnson due to injuries to their quarterbacks.
The Cowboys are favored by 8.5 points, with a 50.5-point total.
Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings and Denver Broncos vs. Kansas City Chiefs follow.

Summary

Lions Seek Playoff Win

The Detroit Lions must win their Christmas Day game against the Minnesota Vikings to keep their slim playoff hopes alive.
Kickoff is at 4:30 p.m. ET at U.S. Bank Stadium, where the Lions stand 8-7 and are favored by 7.5 points over the 7-8 Vikings.
The Vikings will start rookie Max Brosmer because J.J. McCarthy is injured.
The Lions will rely on Jahmyr Gibbs to spark the offense.

History

Historical Context

The NFL expanded its schedule to include Christmas Day games in 1971, a decision that faced criticism. The Dallas Cowboys, who won their first Super Bowl that season, defeated the Miami Dolphins 24-3 in Super Bowl VI on January 16, 1972. Today's matchup features both the Cowboys and Washington Commanders eliminated from playoff contention, reflecting evolving competitive dynamics in the league.

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Cowboys Face Commanders

The NFL Christmas Day tripleheader opens with the Dallas Cowboys facing the Washington Commanders at 1 p.m. ET.
Both teams have been eliminated from playoff contention.
The Commanders will start 39-year-old quarterback Josh Johnson due to injuries to their quarterbacks.
The Cowboys are favored by 8.5 points, with a 50.5-point total.
Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings and Denver Broncos vs. Kansas City Chiefs follow.

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