Here's How the Cowboys Can Clinch a Playoff Berth in Week 14

The Dallas Cowboys are heading into a huge matchup against the division rival Philadelphia Eagles in Week 14. Not only does this game provide the Cowboys a chance to exact revenge for their previous loss to Philly this season, but Mike McCarthy's squad could also knock the Eagles off as the NFC's No. 1 seed and take the lead themselves.

As if Dallas needs even more motivation to win Sunday night, the team can clinch a playoff berth versus Philadelphia as well.

Now, a victory against the Eagles doesn't guarantee a trip to the playoffs. The Cowboys will require help from several teams, in addition to a win, to officially punch their postseason ticket. But downing Dallas is essential to any berth-clinching scenario.

Jerry Jones' team has three paths to making the playoffs in Week 14. The cleanest involves a win against the Eagles, Minnesota Vikings loss or tie, Green Bay Packers loss or tie, Seattle Seahawks loss, Tampa Bay Buccaneers tie, and Detroit Lions win or tie.

Since banking on a tie from the Bucs is foolish, the Cowboys' other routes include a Tampa Bay loss or tie, coupled with a loss or tie by either the Los Angeles Rams or New Orleans Saints. Also, Green Bay and Minnesota cannot tie each other when play in Week 14, or every scenario collapses.

So, it's looking unlikely Dallas gets its way on Sunday, just due to the sheer number of teams involved and results needing to break the team's direction. That being said, the fact we're already talking about a Cowboys playoff berth being possibly wrapped up is exciting to say the least. It shows McCarthy has this team right on track, though the job's far from finished with the No. 1 seed in sight.

Making things even sweeter? The Cowboys are favored to beat the Eagles this week, with roughly a field goal separating the teams on the point spread for Sunday Night Football.

If you're backing Dallas to take down Philly in Week 14, do it on DraftKings Sportsbook. They're even offering $150 in bonus bets to new users who sign up through the link below and place a first wager of just $5. Make sure you claim this promo if your state is eligible, however, before it's gone!

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Odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.