The Cowboys aren't mathematically eliminated from the playoffs at 6-7-1, but it would take a miracle for them to make it.

ARLINGTON, TEXAS — The Vikings are on a winning streak for the first time this season. The fact their back-to-back wins have come in their young quarterback’s two most professional outings of the season does not seem like a coincidence.

Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Quinnen Williams (92) intercepts a pass during the first half of an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings at AT&T Stadium on Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, in Arlington.

Minnesota Vikings kicker Will Reichard appeared to pay homage to NBA legend Carmelo Anthony in their win over the Dallas Cowboys.

The Dallas Cowboys looked to stay in the NFC playoff picture when they met the Minnesota Vikings on "Sunday Night Football" but a loss crushed that.

Schottenheimer would have been handing a game ball to Javonte Williams (15 carries, 91 yards, second quarter missed due to a shoulder injury) had Dallas won the game. But this defense doesn’t really stop people these days, so the Cowboys are back in the same boat, needing 30-plus to even consider the victory column.

Dallas dropped to 6-7-1 with the loss and can still technically make the playoffs, but it would take a lot. The Cowboys would need the 9-5 Philadelphia Eagles, who are in first place in the NFC East, to lose their final three games, while Dallas would need to win against the Los Angeles Chargers, Washington Commanders and New York Giants.

That didn’t stop quarterback J.J. McCarthy from putting together the best game of his career while leading the Vikings to a 34-26 win over the Dallas Cowboys. He completed 15 of 24 passes for 250 yards and a pair of touchdowns through the air while adding another touchdown on the ground.