I’m not all that surprised that the Cowboys currently have a 1-2 record considering their opponents, but the manner in which they lost is certainly concerning. It’s only Week 4, but I now feel like this is a must-win game against the Giants, especially considering the teams they’ll face in the coming weeks. What do you think? –Mario Rodriguez/Phoenix, AZ

Patrick: I disagree that I’m definitely surprised they’re 1-2 now, and especially considering the splits. I could have seen a loss to the Browns in Cleveland (before anyone knew the Browns would start this season with Browning), but then with a win over the Saints and probably beating the Ravens for home field advantage, so to drop two to one row at home (three now) I find astonishing. That said, this is definitely a must-win for the Cowboys right now. Losing won’t mathematically eliminate them from the play-offs, yes, that’s true, but it would massively reduce their chances of making the play-offs and, let’s face it, they need the win as a mental boost and confidence boost before heading to the playoffs. even more hostile territory in Pittsburgh and then hosted the Lions before visiting the 49ers. Losing this match could lead to a series of unpleasant events in the coming weeks, so brace yourself and punch the Giants with an open hand, straight in the mouth, to make it 2-2 on the season.

Nick: Yes and no. I say no, because at 1-3 you are obviously mathematically without anything, because there are still 13 games on the schedule. Of course, in the past, teams have turned things around and made the playoffs and maybe even won their division. But as far as I’m concerned, for the amount of time you hope to have, you can’t lose to the Giants. It’s not just 1-3, but it would be a loss to a team you’ve beaten twelve of the last thirteen times. And if that one loss — in 2020 with Andy Dalton as the starter — the Cowboys probably should have won that game. My point is that a loss to the Giants would likely point to much bigger problems with this team that could be very difficult to come back from. I’d rather not find out. So it may not be a ‘must-win’, but it is a ‘you better win’ type of game.