This year's NFL Christmas tripleheader highlighted the ongoing struggles and potential of the league's teams as they headed toward the playoffs. Only one of the six participating teams is playoff-bound, yet all four games came down to single possessions in the fourth quarter. Key takeaways include the Cowboys' offensive resurgence, the Lions' defensive woes leading to playoff elimination, and the Broncos' formidable defense paired with inconsistent quarterback play.

By the Numbers
  • The Cowboys achieved 30-plus points for the seventh time this season, with Dak Prescott surpassing 300 passing yards six times.
  • The Lions lost five of their last seven games after starting the season at 6-3, ultimately missing the playoffs.
Yes, But

While the Cowboys demonstrated offensive firepower, their close win against a third-string quarterback illustrates ongoing defensive vulnerabilities that need addressing. Similarly, despite their past success, the Lions' recent struggles leave questions about their resilience and coaching adjustments.

State of Play
  • The Cowboys' offense is operating at a high level, but the defense's consistency remains a concern.
  • The Lions are facing potential offseason changes after failing to meet expectations with a playoff berth.
What's Next

The Cowboys must focus on improving their defense through the offseason to become a larger playoff threat. Meanwhile, the Lions will need to rebuild and reassess their coaching strategy to avoid another missed opportunity in the next season.

Bottom Line

The Christmas tripleheader served as a stark reminder of the NFL's unpredictability, showing both the Cowboys' potential for a deep playoff run and the Lions' missed chances for the second consecutive year. For teams like the Broncos, adaptability in quarterback performance could dictate their postseason success or failure.