(Editor's Note: The 2017 Cowboys finished with a winning record, but they fell out of the playoffs in a disappointing follow-up to a 13-3 season. As the team seeks to find a way back to the postseason, the writers of DallasCowboys.com will look back at last year, picking a positive and a negative from all 16 games that might be something to either build on or correct as we head into the 2018 season.)
Views of the Dallas Cowboys Week 14 game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ.
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) answers questions after an NFL football game against the New York Giants, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Dallas Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett answers questions after an NFL football game against the New York Giants, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) celebrates after beating the New York Giants 30-10 in an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) walks off the field after beating the New York Giants 30-10 in an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) greets Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) after an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Cowboys won 30-10. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett congratulates players after a touchdown against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys outside linebacker Jaylon Smith (54) and running back Rod Smith (45) celebrate after Rod Smith scored a touchdown against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Cowboys won 30-10.(AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys running back Rod Smith (45) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys running back Rod Smith (45) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys middle linebacker Sean Lee (50) runs the ball after intercepting a pass from the New York Giants during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Cowboys won 30-10.(AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys running back Rod Smith (45) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys running back Rod Smith (45) runs for a touchdown against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys running back Rod Smith (45) runs for a touchdown against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys running back Rod Smith (45) runs for a touchdown against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys running back Rod Smith (45) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys running back Rod Smith (45) celebrates with fullback Keith Smith (41) after scoring a touchdown against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
New York Giants tight end Evan Engram (88) can't make a catch against the Dallas Cowboys during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Jason Witten (82) de los Cowboys de Dallas atrapa un pase de touchdown ante los Giants de Nueva York, el domingo 10 de octubre de 2017. (AP Foto/Bill Kostroun)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Cole Beasley (11) runs the ball deep for a first down against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett reacts after a touchdown against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Ryan Switzer (10) tuns the ball against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys running back Rod Smith (45) runs the ball against New York Giants free safety Darian Thompson (27) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys running back Rod Smith (45) tries to avoid a tackle from New York Giants defensive tackle Damon Harrison (98) during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) looks to pass against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant (88) runs a pattern against New York Giants defensive back Ross Cockrell (37) in an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) passes against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) passes against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys running back Alfred Morris (46) stiff-arms New York Giants free safety Darian Thompson (27) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys running back Alfred Morris (46) runs the ball against the New York Giants during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season 30-10 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant (88) runs the ball down field for a touchdown against the New York Giants during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant (88) avoids a tackle by New York Giants defensive back Brandon Dixon (25) on his way to a touchdown during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant (88) runs for a touchdown against the New York Giants during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant (88) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the New York Giants during an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant (88) runs the ball in for a touchdown against the New York Giants during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
New York Giants tight end Evan Engram (88) is tackled by Dallas Cowboys strong safety Jeff Heath (38) during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett watches play from the sidelines during the second quarter of an NFL football game against the New York Giants, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys kicker Dan Bailey (5) attempts a field goal against the New York Giants during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Zac Dysert (4) runs the ball against the New York Giants during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Zac Dysert (4) runs the ball against the New York Giants during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Zac Dysert (4) runs the ball against the New York Giants during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Zac Dysert (4) runs the ball against the New York Giants during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Zac Dysert (4) hands off the ball to running back Alfred Morris (46) during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Zac Dysert (4) hands off the ball to running back Alfred Morris (46) during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
New York Giants running back Wayne Gallman (22) is upended by Dallas Cowboys middle linebacker Anthony Hitchens (59) during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Wayne Gallman (22) is upended by Dallas Cowboys middle linebacker Anthony Hitchens (59) during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Wayne Gallman (22) is tackled by the Dallas Cowboys during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
New York Giants running back Wayne Gallman (22) fumbles the ball as he is hit by Dallas Cowboys strong safety Jeff Heath (38) and Dallas Cowboys middle linebacker Anthony Hitchens (59) during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys running back Alfred Morris (46) runs the ball against the New York Giants during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys kicker Dan Bailey (5) kicks a field goal during the first quarter against the New York Giants during an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys running back Alfred Morris (46) runs the ball against New York Giants outside linebacker Devon Kennard (59) during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys running back Rod Smith (45) runs the ball against the New York Giants during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Zac Dysert (4) looks to pass against the New York Giants during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Ryan Switzer (10) runs back a kick off by the New York Giants during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Zac Dysert (4) steps back to pass against the New York Giants during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant (88) warms up before playing against the New York Giants in an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
10 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 14 regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Game 13: Cowboys 30, Giants 10
With newfound momentum after snapping their three-game losing streak, the Cowboys reached the 30-point mark in consecutive games for the first time since those disappointing consecutive home losses to the Rams and Packers. This time, though, Dallas would build on their Nov. 30 38-14 victory over Washington by starting December with a dominant win over the Giants. Down 10-3 at halftime, the offense ripped off 27 unanswered points over the final two quarters.
Encouraging: The downfield passing game is one of the biggest improvement areas for Prescott and the offense in 2018. In this particular game, though, the Cowboys hit some perfectly-timed throws that busted the Giants' blitzes. Prescott threw touchdown passes to Dez Bryant (50 yards), Rod Smith (81 yards) and Jason Witten from 20 yards out after Cole Beasley's 54-yard catch and run. Those four pass plays of at least 20 yards matched the offense's total from the previous four games combined with running back Ezekiel Elliott serving a six-game suspension.
Discouraging: Veteran kicker Dan Bailey had never missed an extra point in his seven-year career. In the swirling winds of the Meadowlands, that streak ended – and he missed two field goals from 50-plus yards. No question conditions were a factor, but Bailey's struggles would continue later in the season as he tried to regain his normal rhythm coming off a four-week groin injury. The second-most accurate field goal kicker in NFL history has the offseason to find that rhythm again.
Views of the Dallas Cowboys Week 15 game against the Oakland Raiders at Oakland Coliseum in Oakland, CA.
Oakland Raiders owner Mark Davis, left, talks with Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones before an NFL football game between the Raiders and the Cowboys in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Ben Margot)
Oakland Raiders owner Mark Davis, left, talks with Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones before an NFL football game between the Raiders and the Cowboys in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Ben Margot)
17 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 15 regular season game against the Oakland Raiders at Oakland Coliseum in Oakland, Calif. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) warms up before an NFL football game against the Oakland Raiders in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
The national anthem is performed before an NFL football game between the Oakland Raiders and the Dallas Cowboys in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)
Fans watch from The Black Hole end zone at Oakland Alameda County Coliseum during the first half of an NFL football game between the Oakland Raiders and the Dallas Cowboys in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Ben Margot)
17 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 15 regular season game against the Oakland Raiders at Oakland Coliseum in Oakland, Calif. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
17 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 15 regular season game against the Oakland Raiders at Oakland Coliseum in Oakland, Calif. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
17 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 15 regular season game against the Oakland Raiders at Oakland Coliseum in Oakland, Calif. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys players kneel before an NFL football game against the Oakland Raiders in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) signals at the line of scrimmage during the first half of an NFL football game against the Oakland Raiders in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Ben Margot)
Dallas Cowboys running back Alfred Morris (46) runs against Oakland Raiders free safety Reggie Nelson during the first half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
17 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 15 regular season game against the Oakland Raiders at Oakland Coliseum in Oakland, Calif. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys fullback Keith Smith celebrates after running back Rod Smith scored a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders during the first half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Ben Margot)
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant (88) is greeted by head coach Jason Garrett during the first half of an NFL football game against the Oakland Raiders in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
17 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 15 regular season game against the Oakland Raiders at Oakland Coliseum in Oakland, Calif. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
17 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 15 regular season game against the Oakland Raiders at Oakland Coliseum in Oakland, Calif. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys kicker Dan Bailey (5) kicks a field goal from the hold of Chris Jones against the Oakland Raiders during the second half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. The Cowboys won 20-17. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) runs for a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders during the second half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant (88) runs against the Oakland Raiders during the second half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
Dallas Cowboys tight end Jason Witten (82) runs against Oakland Raiders free safety Reggie Nelson during the second half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) passes against the Oakland Raiders during the first half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Ben Margot)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) passes against the Oakland Raiders during the first half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Ben Margot)
Dallas Cowboys punter Chris Jones (6) runs on a fake punt against the Oakland Raiders during the second half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
Oakland Raiders running back Marshawn Lynch (24) is tackled between Dallas Cowboys cornerback Jourdan Lewis (27) and middle linebacker Anthony Hitchens during the second half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
Oakland Raiders running back Marshawn Lynch (24) is tackled between Dallas Cowboys cornerback Jourdan Lewis (27) and middle linebacker Anthony Hitchens during the second half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
Dallas Cowboys tight end James Hanna (84) is tackled by Oakland Raiders free safety Reggie Nelson (27) and cornerback Sean Smith (21) during the first half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Ben Margot)
Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) is hit as he throws by Dallas Cowboys defensive end Daniel Ross during the first half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) passes against the Oakland Raiders during the first half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
Oakland Raiders running back Marshawn Lynch (24) runs against the Dallas Cowboys during the first half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
Dallas Cowboys running back Rod Smith, center, scores a touchdown between Oakland Raiders linebacker NaVorro Bowman (53) and strong safety Keith McGill II (39) during the first half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) passes against the Oakland Raiders during the first half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Ben Margot)
Dallas Cowboys running back Rod Smith (45) runs for a touchdown against Oakland Raiders linebacker NaVorro Bowman (53) during the first half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
Dallas Cowboys running back Rod Smith (45) runs against the Oakland Raiders during the first half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Ben Margot)
17 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 15 regular season game against the Oakland Raiders at Oakland Coliseum in Oakland, Calif. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
17 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 15 regular season game against the Oakland Raiders at Oakland Coliseum in Oakland, Calif. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) passes against the Oakland Raiders during the first half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
17 December 2017: Views of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL week 15 regular season game against the Oakland Raiders at Oakland Coliseum in Oakland, Calif. Photo by James D. Smith/Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders with wide receiver Terrance Williams (83) during the second half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders with wide receiver Terrance Williams (83) during the second half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders during the second half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) fumbles the ball into the end zone in front of Dallas Cowboys strong safety Jeff Heath (38) during the second half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. The play was ruled a touchback and the Cowboys got possession. The Cowboys won 20-17. (AP Photo/Ben Margot)
Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) fumbles the ball into the end zone in front of Dallas Cowboys strong safety Jeff Heath (38) during the second half of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. The play was ruled a touchback and the Cowboys got possession. The Cowboys won 20-17. (AP Photo/Ben Margot)
Game 14: Cowboys 20, Raiders 17
The foundation of Jason Garrett's program is "Fight." With the season on the line in primetime at Oakland, Garrett got contributions from every phase of his football team – including a game-sealing forced fumble from Jeff Heath that resulted in a touchback and a turnover by Raiders quarterback Derek Carr. The Cowboys pushed their win streak to three with star running back Ezekiel Elliott returning Christmas Eve at home against Seattle.
Encouraging: The team's across-the-board resiliency in a difficult road environment, with the wild-card race faintly in the picture. Chris Jones perfectly executed a 24-yard fake punt that kept an eventual touchdown drive alive in the third quarter. Prescott rebounded from an early interception to pick up a critical first down in the fourth quarter – by the width of an index card – and set up Bailey's deciding 19-yard field. And Heath made back-to-back plays around the goal line to preserve the Cowboys' three-point victory.
Discouraging: Tyron Smith had already battled back, hip and groin injuries through the first 14 games. Late in the win over Oakland, Smith sprained his knee and did not finish the game. He would play only one offensive series in the Cowboys' final two games. Moving into 2018, the Cowboys need their Pro Bowl left tackle healthy.
