The Dallas Cowboys emerged from Washington with critical 14-10 win and coupled with a loss by the Falcons, the 'Boys are back in the thick of the wild-card race.

And things get considerably easier over the next 10 days for Dallas, with a Week 12 visit from the 49ers and a Turkey Day treat featuring stuffed birds from Seattle, who at 2-8 would be playing for pride if they actually had any.

And so the Cowboys should be 8-4 as they head into the final four games of the season. Which is when things will get very interesting.

Over the final month, Dallas plays the Steelers, Giants, Ravens, and Eagles.

Win three, and the playoffs will be a sure thing. Lose three, and it's over. Win two, and maybe they'll make it.

But while the defense showed up against the Redskins, the Cowboys will still need more out of the offense (and, specifically, the passing game) in order to finish the job. Quarterback Tony Romo was so-so on Sunday night, throwing for less than 200 yards and two interceptions.