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Dallas Cowboys bye week rooting & watching guide for disgruntled fans
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Dallas Cowboys bye week rooting & watching guide for disgruntled fans

There is no football for the Dallas Cowboys this weekend. The team’s bye in Week 7 may have seemed early when the schedule was released, but after a 47-9 loss to the Detroit Lions, it was clear they needed time to regroup and refocus.

Next weekend they face the San Francisco 49ers, who have been a thorn in their side for years. While it may seem like a daunting task, it is actually a huge opportunity for this team to completely change the perception around them.

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But before we move on to that matchup, let’s take a look around the league and offer up a rooting guide to the bye week.

Here are some games to watch and how the outcome could affect the Cowboys.

Carolina Panthers quarterback Andy Dalton

October 13, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Andy Dalton (14) looks to pass in the fourth quarter at Bank of America Stadium. / Bob Donnan-Imagn images

The Washington Commanders are in first place in the NFC East with a 4-2 record. That’s a bit surprising, but kudos to Dan Quinn for the work he’s done.

This weekend they host the Carolina Panthers, who are 1-5. It will likely be a lopsided victory for Washington, but we can still make a case for disappointment.

New York Giants linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux

December 25, 2023; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; New York Giants linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. / Eric Hartline-Imagn images

Right behind Washington in the East are the Philadelphia Eagles. They’ve had more than their fair share of problems this season, but are off to a 3-2 start. They go to New Jersey to take on the New York Giants. The Giants are in last place in the East with a 2-4 mark. They are also less of a threat to win the division or secure a playoff spot than the Eagles. That’s why they’re the ones who should be cheering this weekend.

    Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins

October 3, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Darnell Mooney (1) reacts with quarterback Kirk Cousins ​​(18) and wide receiver Drake London (5) after scoring a touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. / Dale Zanine-Imagn images

This is really a boost. The Atlanta Falcons (4-2) and Seattle Seahawks (3-3) are tied for the lead in their divisions. They’re also both playing for Wild Card spots down the stretch. The 49ers are favored to win the NFC West, so the Seahawks have a better chance of battling Dallas for a Wild Card berth. Then let’s go with the Dirty Birds.

Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry

October 13, 2024; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry (22) charges during the first half against the Washington Commanders at M&T Bank Stadium. /Tommy Gilligan-Imagn images

There are also several interconference games, which makes it easy. The AFC is the one we should be advocating for in each of these scenarios.

Texans at Packers
Chiefs at 49ers
Ravens among buccaneers
Chargers at Cardinals

Of course, the play-offs aren’t close yet, but it’s never too early to start thinking about seeding. Any time an AFC team knocks off an NFC foe, it’s a huge win for Dallas. They could see a conference rival lose a spot in the standings, while the AFC win won’t hurt them.

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