Since 2010, every NFC team except the Dallas Cowboys has appeared in the NFC Championship Game at least once. Dallas, the world’s most valuable sports franchise, has not reached the doorstep of the Super Bowl since winning its last championship during the 1995 season.
As the Cowboys confront that frustrating drought, which includes a recent two-year playoff absence, quarterback Dak Prescott has declared that the current season is strictly “Super Bowl or bust.” Prescott noted that outside criticism will always follow the franchise, making a trip to the Super Bowl the clearest way to silence the doubters.
Dallas Cowboys Focus on Defense and Dak Prescott’s Legacy
Dallas’ biggest weakness in recent seasons has been its defense. The unit ranked last in franchise history last year for points allowed per drive, prompting the front office to hire defensive coordinator Christian Parker and use seven draft selections on defensive talent.
On offense, the Cowboys remain anchored by Prescott, but the quarterback’s biggest challenge arrives in January. His 2-5 postseason record contrasts sharply with his regular-season production.
Following the 2026 season, Prescott could further cement his legacy as arguably the greatest regular-season quarterback in Cowboys history. He is already the franchise’s all-time leader in passing yards with 35,989. Prescott also trails Tony Romo by only eight touchdown passes, with Romo holding a 248-243 advantage, while Prescott’s 83 victories leave him 11 wins behind the franchise record of 94 shared by Troy Aikman and Roger Staubach.
Jerry Jones Hints Cowboys Could Keep Sam Howell and Joe Milton
With Prescott firmly established as the starter for his 11th professional season, one of Dallas’ most difficult 53-man roster decisions concerns the backup quarterback competition between Sam Howell and Joe Milton.
Because injuries can disrupt a season without warning, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones offered insight into the team’s thinking after the preseason finale, hinting to ESPN that Dallas may avoid choosing between the two quarterbacks.
“That’s one that we may just split the difference and have two backup quarterbacks here,” Jones remarked.
Howell held a narrow advantage during the early training camp workouts under head coach Brian Schottenheimer, but both quarterbacks delivered strong summer performances. Their close competition prompted Schottenheimer to describe the battle as completely “neck and neck”.
The Cowboys therefore appear positioned to keep both quarterbacks on the active roster, providing additional emergency depth behind Prescott as they pursue a return to the playoffs and their first NFC Championship Game appearance since 1995.
Source: www.marca.com
