2019 NFL Power Rankings: Dolphins stun Patriots

Recap: The slumping Cowboys had dropped eight of their last 12 games entering Sunday’s rematch with the rival Redskins. And the team was hoping that a victory combined with a Philadelphia Eagles’ loss to the New York Giants would give them a second straight NFC East title. Unfortunately, the latter did not happen while Dak Prescott and company rolled up 517 total yards by game’s end. The fourth-year quarterback did have his team’s only turnover of the day but he also threw for 303 yards and four touchdowns, three of those scores to big-play wide receiver Michael Gallup. Ezekiel Elliott carried 18 times for 122 yards and one score as Dallas rolled up 223 yards rushing.

Draft Talk: It will be extremely interesting to see what the Cowboys do during the three-day process. The team might want to start looking at a successor to veteran left tackle Tyron Smith, who has battled injuries the last few years. The team could also use some more help for a defense that proved to be a major disappointment in 2019.

Offseason Priorities: Will the organization invest heavily into Prescott? That’s the biggest question surrounding the Cowboys, along with the future of Garrett. Other potential unrestricted free agents that the franchise may not want to lose include wide receiver Amari Cooper, cornerback Byron Jones and defensive tackle Maliek Collins.

Recap: Winners of five of their last seven games after a dreadful 1-7 start, Dan Quinn’s club could finish with a 7-9 record for the second consecutive year. Quarterback Matt Ryan overcame six sacks and a lost fumble by throwing for 313 yards and a score to tackle eligible Ty Sambraillo. It wound up being a big afternoon for Younghoee Koe, who connected on five field goals and sent the game into overtime on the final play of regulation via a 33-yard boot. In the extra session, Quinn’s defense got the last of its three takeaways on the afternoon as linebacker Deion Jones picked off Tampa quarterback Jameis Winston and retuned the theft 27 yards for the game-winning score.

Draft Talk: Don’t be surprised if the Atlanta front office focuses very heavily on the team’s defense in April’s draft. The team is also still looking for a consistent pass rush. And it will also be interesting to see if the club goes after any more help at running back as talented Devonta Freeman has missed his share of games the past two seasons.

Offseason Priorities: Quinn and general manager Thomas Dimitroff will return in 2020 and Raheem Morris will own the title of defensive coordinator in what will be his sixth year with the club. Defensive end Vic Beasley and tight end Austin Hooper could test the free-agent market in March. But will the former get the franchise tag?

Next: Nos. 14 and 13