2025-26 NFL Week 14 Dallas vs. Detroit Preview: Can the Cowboys tame the Lions at Ford Field? December 4, 2025 by Marc Jerbs

Ford Field becomes the backdrop for a pivotal NFC clash as the Dallas Cowboys head north to take on the Detroit Lions in a Thursday Night Football showdown. With both teams jockeying for prime playoff positioning, this matchup features explosive offenses, veteran quarterbacks, and coaching staffs known for their calculated aggression and attention to detail. The stakes are immense as each franchise looks to strengthen its postseason bid. Kick-off is set 8:15PM EST.

What's on the Line?

Dallas: Seeking NFC East Leverage

The Cowboys enter Week 14 determined to elevate their playoff standing and keep pace in the fiercely competitive NFC East. Their high-powered passing attack, revitalized ground game, and opportunistic defense face a significant test against one of the NFC's most complete teams.

Detroit: Protecting Their Home Turf

Under Dan Campbell's leadership, the Lions have turned Ford Field into one of the toughest environments in the league. With the NFC North tightening, Detroit needs a statement win over a playoff-quality opponent to reinforce its control of the division.

Dallas vs. Detroit Sports Bet Odds

The Lions are the favorites to win the game. Here are our latest odds:

• The Lions are favored by 3 points, with a money line of -159.
• The Cowboys are the underdogs by 3 points, with a money line of +139.
• The Total is set at 54.5 points, with the over at -105 and the under at -115.

Three Key Questions Entering the Matchup

Can Detroit's Pass Rush Disrupt Dak Prescott?

Dak Prescott thrives when he's kept clean, especially in controlled dome conditions. The Lions' defensive front, led by Aidan Hutchinson, must apply steady pressure without overcommitting to blitz packages to disrupt Dallas' precise, timing-driven passing rhythm.

Will the Cowboys' Run Defense Contain Detroit's Physical Rushing Attack?

Detroit leans heavily on its downhill run game and play-action backbone to dictate tempo. If the Lions consistently win early downs, they can dominate time of possession and limit Dallas' offensive opportunities.

Which Quarterback Delivers in the Game's Defining Moments?

Both Dak Prescott and Jared Goff are efficient, system-driven quarterbacks who excel when their offenses are in rhythm. The contest may hinge on which QB performs best in:

• critical third-down situations
• red-zone execution
• turnover-worthy moments

Injury Report

Dallas Cowboys

Questionable / Game-Time Decisions

• WR CeeDee Lamb – Minor ankle sprain; likely to play with a possible snap limitation.
• LT Tyler Smith – Knee soreness; practicing on a limited basis.
• CB Trevon Diggs – Battling a hamstring tweak; trending toward active but not fully healthy.

Out

• LB DeMarvion Overshown – Ongoing knee issue from earlier in the season (IR).
• S Donovan Wilson – Calf strain; sidelined for multiple weeks.

Detroit Lions — Projected Injury Status

Questionable / Game-Time Decisions

• WR Amon-Ra St. Brown – Shoulder soreness; expected to play barring a setback.
• RB Jahmyr Gibbs – Quad tightness; monitored closely during the week.
• CB Brian Branch – Foot concern; limited practice participation.

Out

• OG Jonah Jackson – Elbow injury; unlikely to play.
• DE Josh Paschal – High-ankle sprain; out for Week 14.

Head-to-Head Overview

The Cowboys have historically held the upper hand in this rivalry, particularly in indoor stadiums where their offense frequently hits its stride. However, Detroit's resurgence—especially at home—has tightened the matchup considerably. Expect a high-scoring, possession-driven battle where both offenses are equipped to perform at a high level.

Final Thought

This Thursday night meeting carries heavy playoff ramifications:

• Dallas looks to reinforce its NFC championship ambitions with a significant road victory.
• Detroit aims to defend its home fortress and solidify its rise as a legitimate NFC contender.

If the Cowboys establish rhythm early through an efficient aerial attack, they could seize control. But if the Lions impose their will in the trenches and dictate tempo, they may force Dallas into a grind-it-out battle. Anticipate a tense, tactical, and potentially season-shaping encounter under the bright lights of Ford Field.

2025-26 Dallas Cowboys vs. Detroit Lions Stats

DALLAS COWBOYS	VS	DETROIT LIONS
2nd NFC East (6-5-1) Away (2-4) | STRK W3	Standings	3rd NFC North (7-5) Home (4-2) | STRK L1
271.3	Passing Yards Per Game	238.2
121.8	Rushing Yards Per Game	138.1
29.3	Points Per Game	29.2
251.5	Passing Yards Allowed Per Game	212.5
124.7	Rushing Yards Allowed Per Game	103.7