The Dallas Cowboys will attempt to revive their playoff aspirations when they face the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, December 21, 2023. The game, part of Week 16 of the NFL season, is set for an 11:00 AM MT (noon CT) kickoff at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Despite suffering two consecutive losses, the Cowboys remain hopeful that a victory could bring them back to a .500 record as they look towards the future.
The Chargers enter the matchup with a strong record of 10-4, having won six of their last seven games. Currently positioned as a top wild card contender, Los Angeles is looking to secure their place in the postseason. In contrast, the Cowboys stand at 6-7-1 and find themselves in a precarious situation, with their postseason chances dwindling significantly.
Dallas is regarded as a 2.5-point favorite in this contest, reflecting the advantage of home field. This game represents the Cowboys’ final home appearance of the season, making it a critical moment for both the team and their fans. The matchup will be broadcast live on FOX.
As the Cowboys prepare for this pivotal game, discussions surrounding their roster are intensifying. Injuries, particularly among key players, have raised concerns about their capability to perform at a competitive level. Reports suggest that players recovering from concussions may be nearing a return, which could bolster the team’s chances.
The statistics for both teams highlight their respective strengths and weaknesses. The Cowboys are projected to win with a predicted score of 26-24 or 26-23, based on betting lines that indicate an over-under of 49.5. Dallas is listed at -130 on the money line, while the Chargers are at +110.
Analysts have noted that the Chargers tend to win in tightly contested matchups. According to Jeremy Cluff, the Chargers have proven to be effective, even if their victories are not always by large margins. Meanwhile, Bill Speros highlighted the Chargers’ recent success against formidable opponents, including a narrow victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, which effectively eliminated them from playoff contention.
The Cowboys’ playoff odds are precariously low, currently estimated at just 1% following their last defeat to the Minnesota Vikings. Should they fall to the Chargers, their chances would diminish to zero. The game is expected to attract significant attention, particularly as it marks the 30th anniversary of the Cowboys’ last Super Bowl victory.
Both teams come into this game with notable vulnerabilities. The Chargers’ offensive line has allowed an average of 4.7 sacks per game over their last six outings. This statistic could play into the hands of the Cowboys’ defensive front, which is eager to capitalize on any mistakes. Conversely, the Chargers’ quarterback Justin Herbert has demonstrated a capacity to exploit defensive weaknesses, particularly against a Cowboys secondary that has struggled recently.
With both teams facing their respective challenges, the December 21 matchup promises to be an engaging contest. The outcome may have lasting implications for the Cowboys as they reflect on their season and make preparations for the future. As fans anticipate the game, all eyes will be on the field, with the hope that the Cowboys can defy the odds and keep their playoff dreams alive, if only for a little longer.
