At a Glance
- Dak Prescott edges Matthew Stafford to lead NFL in passing yards heading into Week 18.
- Cowboys face Giants in a decisive game as Prescott seeks the elusive title.
- Week 18 is the final playoff race with only two spots remaining.
- Why it matters: Prescott’s pursuit could cap a historic season and decide whether the Cowboys return to the playoffs.
Dak Prescott is on the cusp of becoming the NFL’s all-time passing leader as the Cowboys prepare for a Week 18 showdown against the Giants. With 4,482 yards and 397 completions, he has outpaced Matthew Stafford by 34 yards, but the Cowboys still miss the playoffs after back-to-back losses. The game could determine whether Prescott finally captures the passing title and whether Dallas can secure a postseason berth.
Prescott’s Pursuit
Prescott’s 4,482 yards are the most in the league, edging Stafford by 34 yards. He also leads in completions (397) and attempts (589), and earned Pro Bowl honors, four fourth-quarter comebacks, and a lower interception percentage than his career average.
- 4,482 passing yards – league-leading
- 397 completions – most completions
- 589 attempts – most attempts
- 49 offensive touchdowns – Cowboys’ eighth-most
- Fourth-highest scoring average – but worst defense in points allowed
The Cowboys entered Week 18 with 49 offensive touchdowns, the eighth-most in the NFL, and a fourth-highest scoring average, but their defense allowed the most points in the league.
Dak Prescott stated:
> I’m not going to try to chase the record, I’m not going out there and throw it every time. It may actually be opposite of that, just trying to play a smart game, clean game, most importantly get a win. The records will come if they come.
Dak Prescott added:
> I’m not gonna try to do too much early and make some big plays so I can get out of the game. If he says two touchdowns or three touchdowns or ‘this score, you’re coming out,’ that may put a little bit pressure. But me not knowing when it is, and if it is, just go in and play my game and be smart.
Week 18 Stakes
Week 18 is the last chance for teams to secure playoff spots. Only two positions remain-one in the AFC and one in the NFC.
| Game | Stakes |
|---|---|
| Cowboys vs Giants | Cowboys need a win to stay alive for a playoff berth; Giants aim for a final season win |
| Rams vs Cardinals | Rams could secure NFC West; Cardinals aim to avoid worst record |
| Titans vs Jaguars | Jaguars could clinch AFC South; Titans look to avoid 0-12 |
The matchup also includes other notable games such as Saints vs Falcons, Browns vs Bengals, Packers vs Vikings, Colts vs Texans, Chiefs vs Raiders, Dolphins vs Patriots, Jets vs Bills, Chargers vs Broncos, Lions vs Bears, Commanders vs Eagles, Cardinals vs Rams, and Ravens vs Steelers.
Key Takeaways
- Prescott’s 4,482 yards edge Stafford’s 4,448, putting him in league-leading position.
- The Cowboys’ offensive production is strong, but their defense remains a weakness.
- Week 18 is critical for playoff qualification, with only two spots left.
The Cowboys’ fate hinges on Prescott’s performance and the outcome of this pivotal Week 18 showdown.
By Ethan R. Coleman at News Of Los Angeles
