Dallas Cowboys face three critical regular season matchups in 2026
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 2, 2026, 7:00 PM
Last updated Sep 2, 2026

The Dallas Cowboys open their 2026 regular season in less than two weeks following two consecutive years without a playoff appearance. Analysts identified three divisional and non-conference games that could determine the team's postseason potential. A Week 2 home game against the Washington Commanders is highlighted as a potential turning point to avoid an early 0-2 divisional start. The team also faces a pivotal Week 9 road matchup against the Indianapolis Colts during a difficult mid-season stretch. Finally, a Week 17 home game against the New York Giants is expected to influence the final NFC East standings. These matchups are considered essential for a franchise seeking to return to the playoffs after recent roster upgrades.
- •Dallas begins the 2026 regular season with consecutive divisional games against the New York Giants and Washington Commanders.
- •The Week 9 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts occurs during a challenging mid-season stretch of five games.
- •A late-season home game against the New York Giants in Week 17 could decide the team's playoff eligibility.
- •Offseason roster upgrades have raised expectations for the team's performance following two seasons missing the playoffs.
- 7:00 PMYahoo Sports — 3 must-win games this Cowboys season
"Which Cowboys games this season do you think are must wins?
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