It should come as no surprise that Dak Prescott harbors significant optimism regarding the Dallas Cowboys’ prospects in 2025. It also appears that he holds the Los Angeles Rams in high regard as well. Prior to Saturday’s exhibition match between the two squads, the Cowboys’ signal-caller engaged in a noteworthy conversation with Rams’ proprietor Stan Kroenke, who was concurrently conversing with Jerry Jones and other prominent figures within the Cowboys’ organization.
“We anticipate facing you in the NFC Championship,” Prescott communicated to Kroenke.
The Rams successfully navigated their way to the NFC divisional round of the playoffs the previous season. Conversely, the Cowboys concluded the prior year with a 7-10 record, a circumstance largely attributable to Prescott’s absence for over half the season due to an injury.
The Rams and Cowboys share an extensive history of postseason encounters. The two franchises have clashed in the playoffs on nine occasions, with the Rams possessing a 5-4 advantage in those contests. The most recent playoff showdown between the two transpired in the divisional round of the 2018 playoffs. Los Angeles secured a 30-22 victory that particular day, paving the way for their participation in Super Bowl LIII.
Dallas and Los Angeles have twice vied for supremacy in the NFC title game, with the Cowboys emerging triumphant in both instances (in 1975 and 1978). In 1979, the Rams managed to exact a degree of retribution by upsetting the Cowboys in the divisional round of the playoffs. Notably, that game marked the concluding appearance for future Hall of Fame quarterback Roger Staubach.
Another significant playoff encounter between the two clubs unfolded in the divisional round of the 1985 playoffs. On that day, Rams future Hall of Fame running back Eric Dickerson amassed a single-game playoff record of 248 rushing yards, propelling Los Angeles to a 20-0 triumph.
Both franchises must surmount certain initial obstacles if Prescott’s forecast is to materialize. Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford was sidelined for a period this summer following the exacerbation of a disk ailment in his back. He expresses optimism about resuming throwing activities in the near future.
The Cowboys continue to grapple with Micah Parsons’ hold-in and a recent reported trade request stemming from his pursuit of a more lucrative contract. Parsons has reportedly been “very involved” within the team’s facilities despite the request, Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer stated recently.
Dallas is eager to conclude a 29-year absence from an NFC title game appearance. This represents the NFC’s lengthiest such drought and the third-longest in the NFL, trailing only the Cleveland Browns and Miami Dolphins.
