Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy threw for 250 yards and 2 touchdowns with 1 interception in win against the Dallas Cowboys.

The Dallas Cowboys have taken a hit in the latest NFL power rankings roundup after watching their playoff hopes plummet in Week 15.

The Cowboys spent an NFL-low $20.47 million in free agency in 2024, per OverTheCap.com, and they went bargain bin shopping in 2025. They struck oil with running back Javonte Williams, but most of their additions didn't move the needle. Dallas needs more from its front office in free agency in order to build a more competent defense in 2026.

Should the Eagles fall to the Commanders on Saturday, Sunday’s clash between the Cowboys and Chargers becomes a do-or-die showdown for Dallas. Week 16’s matinee at AT&T Stadium kicks off at noon central, airing on Fox and streaming live on NFL+ and NFL Game Pass.

There were some bright spots for the Dallas Cowboys despite an ugly defeat to the Minnesota Vikings, with five players standing above the rest with their PFF ratings.

Dallas dropped to 6-7-1 with the loss and can still technically make the playoffs, but it would take a lot. The Cowboys would need the 9-5 Philadelphia Eagles, who are in first place in the NFC East, to lose their final three games, while Dallas would need to win against the Los Angeles Chargers, Washington Commanders and New York Giants.

The Dallas Cowboys are being urged to use their franchise tag on NFL All-Pro kicker Brandon Aubrey instead of wide receiver George Pickens.

The Chargers can clinch a playoff berth this weekend. It starts with not falling into a trap against the Cowboys.