In a surprising move that has sent shockwaves through the NFL community, the Dallas Cowboys have made a bold announcement regarding their star quarterback Dak Prescott just days before their Week 18 matchup against the New York Giants. With both teams already eliminated from playoff contention, many expected the Cowboys to rest their key players in what has been dubbed a “meaningless” game. However, head coach Brian Schottenheimer has shattered those assumptions, confirming that Prescott and other healthy starters will suit up and play.
The decision comes on the heels of a grueling Week 17 victory over the Washington Commanders, where Prescott endured a punishing performance—sacked six times and hit an additional 11. Concerns about his health and the risk of injury in a non-consequential game loomed large, but Schottenheimer was unequivocal during his Monday press conference.
“We’re planning on finishing strong and having Dak play,” Schottenheimer told reporters. “We have a chance to go 5-1 hopefully in the division, finish 8-8-1. That’s the plan as we look at it right now.”
This stance extends beyond just Prescott. When asked about the rest of the starting lineup, Schottenheimer added, “If they’re healthy, we plan on playing them. If you’re going to play Dak Prescott, if the guys are healthy, we want to play them.”
A Risky Gamble or a Cultural Statement?
Critics might argue that exposing Prescott—a franchise cornerstone who has battled injuries in the past—to unnecessary hits is a reckless choice. The Cowboys’ season has been a rollercoaster, marked by inconsistencies and missed opportunities that ultimately kept them out of the postseason. Resting starters could preserve their health for the offseason and allow younger players to gain valuable experience. Yet, Schottenheimer’s choice underscores a deeper philosophy he’s instilled since taking the helm: building a winning culture through consistency and relentless effort.
“I’m a guy that’s all about process,” Schottenheimer emphasized. “I’m going to be the same guy every day, every week. This week is no different. These guys put a lot of time and effort into preparing for 17 games—that’s how many we signed up for. We’re going to compete to win all 17 of them, hopefully we can get [win] No. eight this weekend.”
Indeed, the Cowboys have little to show in terms of streaks this 2025 season, boasting just one win streak so far. A victory over the Giants would double that, providing a small but symbolic boost as the team heads into an offseason of reflection and rebuilding. In the hyper-competitive NFL, stacking wins—no matter the context—can foster momentum and morale.
Implications for the Finale and Beyond
The Cowboys-Giants clash, set for Sunday at AT&T Stadium, now carries added intrigue. Both NFC East rivals are playing for pride, with Dallas aiming to salvage a .500 record at 8-8-1 and potentially finish strong in the division. For Prescott, who has shouldered much of the team’s offensive load this year, it’s another chance to lead by example and end the season on a high note.
On the flip side, the Giants, also out of contention, might adopt a similar approach or opt to evaluate backups, creating an unpredictable dynamic. Fans can expect a hard-fought battle, as neither team wants to limp into the offseason.
Schottenheimer’s decision also signals his commitment to long-term team identity. In a league where tanking for draft position is sometimes whispered about, the Cowboys are choosing integrity over expediency. Whether this pays off in future seasons remains to be seen, but for now, it’s a bombshell that reaffirms Dallas’ refusal to phone it in.
As the regular season wraps up, all eyes will be on Prescott and the Cowboys. Will they “finish strong,” as Schottenheimer hopes? Or will the risks outweigh the rewards? One thing’s for sure: this finale just got a lot more meaningful.
