The article analyzes Will the Cowboys Make the Playoffs in 2024?. It examines their offensive firepower, defensive struggles, key players, division rivals, and offseason moves. Ultimately, the Cowboys’ playoff hopes depend on overcoming defensive challenges and consistently performing at a high level in a competitive NFC East.
Four Reasons Why the Dallas Cowboys Will Miss the Playoffs
1. All-In Means Doing Less
2. Lack Of Mentality Change
3. The NFC East is Getting Better
4. The Cowboys Have a Tougher Road to the Postseason
1. All-In Means Doing Less
The Cowboys have often talked a big game about being “all-in” for a Super Bowl run. However, their offseason moves suggest otherwise. While there were some additions, the team lost key players on both sides of the ball without making significant upgrades. This lack of investment in the roster raises questions about their true commitment to winning now.
2. Lack of Mentality Change
For years, the Cowboys have shown a propensity for underperforming in crucial games. Despite having talented players, they consistently fall short of expectations. A lack of mental toughness and a failure to consistently execute in high-pressure situations have been recurring issues. Until they can address this mental hurdle, playoff success will remain elusive.
3. The NFC East is Getting Better
The NFC East is becoming increasingly competitive. Teams like the Eagles and Giants have made significant strides, while the Commanders are showing signs of improvement. The Cowboys will face stiffer competition within their division, making it more challenging to secure a playoff spot.
4. The Cowboys Have a Tougher Road to the Postseason
Dallas has a daunting schedule with several games against playoff contenders. Their road to the postseason will be filled with obstacles, and any missteps could prove costly. The increased difficulty of their schedule combined with the improved strength of the NFC East makes their path to the playoffs significantly more challenging.
The Cowboys’ Recent History: A Rollercoaster Ride
| Season | Team | Conference | Regular Season | Regular Season | Regular Season | Regular Season |
| Finish | W | L | T | |||
| 1960 | 1960 | Western | 7th | 0 | 11 | 1 |
| 1961 | 1961 | Eastern[A] | 6th | 4 | 9 | 1 |
| 1962 | 1962 | Eastern | 5th | 5 | 8 | 1 |
| 1963 | 1963 | Eastern | 5th | 4 | 10 | 0 |
| 1964 | 1964 | Eastern | 5th | 5 | 8 | 1 |
| 1965 | 1965 | Eastern | 2nd | 7 | 7 | 0 |
| 1966 | 1966 | Eastern* | 1st* | 10 | 3 | 1 |
| 1967 | 1967 | Eastern* | 1st^ | 9 | 5 | 0 |
| 1968 | 1968 | Eastern | 1st^ | 12 | 2 | 0 |
| 1969 | 1969 | Eastern | 1st^ | 11 | 2 | 1 |
| 1970 | 1970 | NFC*[D] | 1st^ | 10 | 4 | 0 |
| 1971 | 1971 | NFC* | 1st^ | 11 | 3 | 0 |
| 1972 | 1972 | NFC | 2nd§ | 10 | 4 | 0 |
| 1973 | 1973 | NFC | 1st^ | 10 | 4 | 0 |
| 1974 | 1974 | NFC | 3rd | 8 | 6 | 0 |
| 1975 | 1975 | NFC* | 2nd§ | 10 | 4 | 0 |
| 1976 | 1976 | NFC | 1st^ | 11 | 3 | 0 |
| 1977 | 1977 | NFC* | 1st^ | 12 | 2 | 0 |
| 1978 | 1978 | NFC* | 1st^ | 12 | 4 | 0 |
| 1979 | 1979 | NFC | 1st^ | 11 | 5 | 0 |
| 1980 | 1980 | NFC | 2nd§ | 12 | 4 | 0 |
| 1981 | 1981 | NFC | 1st^ | 12 | 4 | 0 |
| 1982 | 1982 | NFC | 2nd§ | 6 | 3 | 0 |
| 1983 | 1983 | NFC | 2nd§ | 12 | 4 | 0 |
| 1984 | 1984 | NFC | 4th | 9 | 7 | 0 |
| 1985 | 1985 | NFC | 1st^ | 10 | 6 | 0 |
| 1986 | 1986 | NFC | 3rd | 7 | 9 | 0 |
| 1987 | 1987 | NFC | 4th | 7 | 8 | 0 |
| 1988 | 1988 | NFC | 5th | 3 | 13 | 0 |
| 1989 | 1989 | NFC | ||||
| 990 | 1990 | NFC | East | 4th | 7 | 9 |
| 1991 | 1991 | NFC | East | 2nd§ | 11 | 5 |
| 1992 | 1992 | NFC* | East^ | 1st^ | 13 | 3 |
| 1993 | 1993 | NFC* | East^ | 1st^ | 12 | 4 |
| 1994 | 1994 | NFC | East^ | 1st^ | 12 | 4 |
| 1995 | 1995 | NFC* | East^ | 1st^ | 12 | 4 |
| 1996 | 1996 | NFC | East^ | 1st^ | 10 | 6 |
| 1997 | 1997 | NFC | East | 4th | 6 | 10 |
| 1998 | 1998 | NFC | East^ | 1st^ | 10 | 6 |
| 1999 | 1999 | NFC | East | 2nd§ | 8 | 8 |
| 2000 | 2000 | NFC | East | 4th | 5 | 11 |
| 2001 | 2001 | NFC | East | 5th | 5 | 11 |
| 2002 | 2002 | NFC | East[H] | 4th | 5 | 11 |
| 2003 | 2003 | NFC | East | 2nd§ | 10 | 6 |
| 2004 | 2004 | NFC | East | 3rd | 6 | 10 |
| 2005 | 2005 | NFC | East | 3rd | 9 | 7 |
| 2006 | 2006 | NFC | East | 2nd§ | 9 | 7 |
| 2007 | 2007 | NFC | East^ | 1st^ | 13 | 3 |
| 2008 | 2008 | NFC | East | 3rd | 9 | 7 |
| 2009 | 2009 | NFC | East^ | 1st^ | 11 | 5 |
| 2010 | 2010 | NFC | East | 3rd | 6 | 10 |
| 2011 | 2011 | NFC | East | 3rd | 8 | 8 |
| 2012 | 2012 | NFC | East | 3rd | 8 | 8 |
| 2013 | 2013 | NFC | East | 2nd | 8 | 8 |
| 2014 | 2014 | NFC | East^ | 1st^ | 12 | 4 |
| 2015 | 2015 | NFC | East | 4th | 4 | 12 |
| 2016 | 2016 | NFC | East^ | 1st^ | 13 | 3 |
| 2017 | 2017 | NFC | East | |||
| 2018 | 2018 | NFC | East^ | 1st^ | 10 | 6 |
| 2019 | 2019 | NFC | East | 2nd | 8 | 8 |
| 2020 | 2020 | NFC | East | 3rd | 6 | 10 |
| 2021 | 2021 | NFC | East^ | 1st^ | 12 | 5 |
| 2022 | 2022 | NFC | East | 2nd§ | 12 | 5 |
| 2023 | 2023 | NFC | East^ | 1st^ | 12 | 5 |
| Record Type | Wins | Ties | Win Percentage | Period | ||
| All-time regular season record (1960–2023) | 562 | 6 | 0.576 | 1960–2023 | ||
| All-time postseason record (1960–2023) | 36 | — | 0.537 | 1960–2023 | ||
| All-time regular season & postseason record (1960–2023) | 598 | 6 | 0.573 | 1960–2023 | ||
| Dallas Cowboys record by season |
The Cowboys have exhibited a Jekyll-and-Hyde nature in recent years. On one hand, their high-powered offense has been a force to be reckoned with, capable of putting up points in bunches. On the other, defensive struggles have often plagued them, leading to inconsistent results.
The Good: Offensive Firepower
Dallas boasts a potent offense led by quarterback Dak Prescott, who has shown the ability to carry the team on his shoulders. With a talented receiving corps and a solid offensive line, the Cowboys have the potential to light up the scoreboard.
The Bad: Defensive Struggles
While the offense has been a bright spot, the defense has been a cause for concern. Inconsistent play and struggles against the run have hampered their ability to consistently close out games.
Key Players to Watch
Several key players will be crucial to the Cowboys’ success.
Dak Prescott: The Quarterback Question
Dak Prescott’s performance will undoubtedly determine the Cowboys’ fortunes. He has shown flashes of brilliance but has also been prone to turnovers. If he can elevate his game and limit mistakes, the Cowboys will be a formidable force.
Ezekiel Elliott: A Running Back in Decline?
Ezekiel Elliott has been a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ offense, but his production has shown signs of decline. His ability to contribute as a runner and receiver will be essential for the team’s success.
Micah Parsons: The Defensive Anchor
Micah Parsons is a generational talent who has transformed the Cowboys’ defense. His impact on the field is undeniable, and his continued development will be crucial for improving the unit’s overall performance.
The NFC East: A Tough Division
The NFC East has become increasingly competitive, making the Cowboys’ path to the playoffs even more challenging.
Eagles Soaring High
The Philadelphia Eagles have emerged as the dominant force in the division, boasting a high-powered offense and a strong defense.
Giants on the Rise
The New York Giants have shown signs of improvement and could be a wild card in the division race.
Commanders Looking to Compete
The Washington Commanders are rebuilding but have the potential to surprise teams.
Offseason Moves: Hit or Miss?
The Cowboys’ offseason moves will significantly impact their chances of making the playoffs.
Key Acquisitions
Dallas made several key acquisitions in free agency and the draft. These additions could bolster the roster and address weaknesses.
Departures That Hurt
The Cowboys also lost some key players to free agency. The impact of these departures will be crucial to monitor.
The Road to the Playoffs: Challenges and Opportunities
The Cowboys face a challenging schedule with several tough matchups. However, they also have opportunities to rack up wins against weaker opponents.
Conclusion: Cowboys’ Playoff Hopes
The Cowboys have the talent to make a deep playoff run, but they must address their defensive deficiencies and consistently perform at a high level. The NFC East is highly competitive, which will make every game a battle. Ultimately, the Cowboys’ playoff hopes will depend on their ability to overcome adversity and capitalize on opportunities.
FAQs: Will the Cowboys Make the Playoffs in 2024?
Q: When does the NFL season start?
The NFL season typically starts in early September.
Q: How many teams make the playoffs in the NFL?
Seven teams from each conference (AFC and NFC) make the playoffs.
Q: What is the format of the NFL playoffs?
The NFL playoffs consist of three rounds: Wild Card, Divisional, and Conference Championship. The two conference champions then compete in the Super Bowl.
Q: Who are the favorites to win the NFC East in 2024?
The Philadelphia Eagles are the current favorites to win the NFC East, but the Cowboys always pose a strong challenge.
Q: Who is the head coach of the Dallas Cowboys?
A: Mike McCarthy is the head coach of the Dallas Cowboys.
Q: What is the Cowboys’ all-time playoff record?
A: The Cowboys have an impressive all-time playoff record, ranking among the best in NFL history.
Q: When was the last time the Cowboys won a Super Bowl?
A: The Dallas Cowboys last won the Super Bowl in 1995.
Q: Who are some of the most famous Cowboys players of all time?
A: Some of the most famous Cowboys players include Emmitt Smith, Troy Aikman, Michael Irvin, Deion Sanders, and Roger Staubach.
Q: What are the biggest rivalries for the Dallas Cowboys?
A: The Dallas Cowboys have several big rivalries, including the Washington Commanders, New York Giants, and Philadelphia Eagles.
