Cowboys vs Chiefs Post-game

One of the most anticipated games of the Cowboys’ season has finally arrived — and it couldn’t come at a more pivotal moment. Sitting at 5-5-1, the Cowboys are staring at what is likely their last real shot to make a playoff push. Drop this one, and the margin for error disappears completely.

The Chiefs come in at 6-5, dangerous but inconsistent, and very beatable away from Arrowhead. This game has “turning point” written all over it for Dallas. Let’s break down the keys to victory for this massive Thanksgiving matchup.

OFFENSE: Set the Tone. Run the Ball. Let Dak Cook.

Start With the Script That Worked Last Week

If Dallas wants to dictate this game, they need to follow the same formula they used against Vegas:

Establish the run → open up play-action → control the pace.

Kansas City’s defense is fast, aggressive, and opportunistic. You cannot let them pin their ears back and tee off on Dak.

Javonte Williams Must Be the Engine

Williams delivered 22 carries for 93 yards last week — tough yards, efficient runs, chain-moving plays. He needs to do that again.

Against the Chiefs, balance is everything. If the Cowboys make KC respect the run, Dak becomes significantly more dangerous — especially working off play-action, where he’s been lethal this year.

The Offensive Line: A Massive Test

Terrance Steele and Tyler Guyton are coming off their best combined performance in weeks. But now they face a Chiefs front that thrives on chaos and pressure.

Keeping Dak clean is critical — especially with his nagging hip issue. One big hit could change the whole trajectory of this game.

The Matchup of the Night: Cowboys WRs vs. Chiefs Secondary

This is where Dallas has the potential to take over:

• CeeDee Lamb

• George Pickens

• Jake Ferguson

KC’s secondary has talent, but they can’t double everyone. If they bracket Lamb, Pickens gets single coverage. If they roll to Pickens, Ferguson eats them alive up the seams.

Expect the Chiefs to mix coverages and try to confuse Dak pre-snap. But he’s been on fire this season — and if he finds rhythm early, Kansas City is in trouble.

DEFENSE: Pressure With Intent. Don’t Let Mahomes Breathe.

Dallas’ defense has been inconsistent this season, but the game against Vegas provided at least a spark of hope. The Chiefs’ offense is still explosive, but it’s not the unstoppable machine it once was.

Contain Mahomes — Don’t Chase Him

The key isn’t blitzing Mahomes into greatness. It’s disciplined pressure:

• Set firm edges

• Collapse the pocket from the inside

• Don’t give him escape lanes

• Make him throw into tight windows

Mahomes beats the blitz better than almost anyone. But if you clog passing lanes, stay disciplined, and force him to hold the ball, you can stall their drives.

The Eagles Gameplan? No. The Packers Gameplan? Closer.

It’s all about making the quarterback uncomfortable without selling out. If Dallas can force Mahomes into checkdowns and long third downs, the Cowboys will be exactly where they want to be.

Calen Carson: Another Big Test

Carson was excellent last week, but this matchup is significantly tougher:

• Speed receivers

• Deep-shot threats

• Creative route concepts

He needs to carry his momentum into this game and avoid the lapses that hurt him earlier in the season. With the Chiefs trying to push the ball vertically, his discipline will be tested from snap one.

Game of the Season? It Just Might Be.

Everything the Cowboys want this season — a playoff push, momentum, confidence — hinges on this Thanksgiving showdown. Lose, and the hill becomes almost impossible to climb. Win, and suddenly the season feels alive again.

So who walks out of Dallas with the victory on Turkey Day?