### Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Commanders: A Christmas Day Showdown The Dallas Cowboys and Washington Commanders faced off on Christmas Day in a highly anticipated Week 17 matchup. Both teams entered the game with disappointing records, with the Cowboys at 6-8-1 and the Commanders at 4-11, yet the rivalry and holiday spirit added excitement to the contest. The Cowboys were favored by 8.5 points, reflecting their stronger season performance despite their struggles [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/christmas-day-football-week-17-175500086.html]. This game was significant not only for pride but also for the implications it had on the NFC East standings, as both teams were out of playoff contention [https://statsalt.com/free-picks/nfl/dallas-cowboys-vs-washington-commanders-prediction-and-picks-december-25-2025]. ### Breakdown of the Game's Structure and Predictions 1. **Game Context**: - The Cowboys aimed to finish the season on a high note, while the Commanders sought to salvage some pride in their disappointing season. - Both teams had key players to watch, including Dak Prescott for the Cowboys and Terry McLaurin for the Commanders [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/cowboys-vs-commanders-picks-predictions-124058867.html]. 2. **Betting Insights**: - The Cowboys were 8.5-point favorites, with various betting predictions suggesting a focus on the under for total points scored [https://sportshandle.com/cowboys-vs-commanders-predictions-spread-totals-props-week-17-nfl-christmas]. - Expert analyses highlighted potential prop bets, particularly on players like George Pickens and CeeDee Lamb [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/cowboys-vs-commanders-props-best-200000446.html]. 3. **Expert Predictions**: - Analysts provided a range of predictions, with some expecting a high-scoring affair while others anticipated a more defensive battle [https://www.si.com/betting/cowboys-vs-commanders-final-score-prediction-for-nfl-week-17-expect-high-scoring-affair]. - The SportsLine Projection Model offered insights into the expected outcomes based on statistical analysis [https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/cowboys-commanders-prediction-odds-time-week-17-nfl-christmas-day-picks-best-bets]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Team Records**: - Cowboys: 6 wins, 8 losses, 1 tie - Commanders: 4 wins, 11 losses - **Betting Odds**: - Cowboys favored by 8.5 points - Total points over/under set at 50.5 [https://sportshandle.com/cowboys-vs-commanders-predictions-spread-totals-props-week-17-nfl-christmas]. - **Key Players**: - Dak Prescott (Cowboys) - Terry McLaurin (Commanders) - George Pickens (notable mention for prop bets) [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/cowboys-vs-commanders-props-best-200000446.html]. ### Conclusion: Key Takeaways from the Cowboys vs. Commanders Matchup 1. **Game Significance**: Despite both teams being out of playoff contention, the rivalry and holiday setting made this game noteworthy. 2. **Predictions and Insights**: Analysts provided a variety of predictions, with a consensus leaning towards a Cowboys victory, but with caution regarding the Commanders' potential to upset [https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/cowboys-vs-commanders-where-to-watch-pick-odds-prediction-christmas-day]. 3. **Final Thoughts**: The outcome of this game would not only affect the teams' morale heading into the offseason but also serve as a reflection of their respective seasons, with the Cowboys looking to end on a positive note and the Commanders hoping to build for the future [https://www.si.com/nfl/cowboys/onsi/news/george-pickens-could-join-elite-nfl-company-dallas-cowboys-season-finale].