Is this week four game a must-see?

I’m not too surprised that the Cowboys have a 1-2 record at this point given their opponents, but the way they lost is definitely concerning. It’s only Week 4, but I now feel like this is a must-win game against the Giants, especially given the teams they’ll face in the coming weeks. What do you think? – Mario Rodriguez/Phoenix, AZ

Patrick: I have to disagree in that I’m definitely surprised they’re only 1-2 at the moment, especially considering the splits. I could have imagined a loss to the Browns in Cleveland (before anyone knew the Browns would be starting Browning this season), but that was followed by a win over the Saints and probably a win over the Ravens because they had home field advantage , so losing two in a row at home (now three) is breathtaking for me. However, this is now a must win for the Cowboys. A loss won’t mathematically eliminate them from the playoffs, yes, that’s true, but it would drastically reduce their chances of making it to the playoffs later on, and let’s face it, they need the win to strengthen mentally and boost their confidence strengthen before heading into the playoffs, even more hostile territory in Pittsburgh and then hosting the Lions before visiting the 49ers. Losing this game could set off a cascade of unpleasant events over the next few weeks. So just give the Giants a slap in the face to bring the season to 2-2.

Nick: Nope. I say no, because with a score of 1:3 you are of course not at the end mathematically, as there are still 13 games on the schedule. Of course, teams in the past have turned things around this way and made the playoffs, maybe even won their division. But in my opinion, you can’t lose to the Giants in the time you’re hoping for. Not only is it 1-3, but it would be a defeat for a team they have beaten 12 of the last 13 times. And if there had been that one loss — in 2020 with Andy Dalton as the starter — the Cowboys probably should have won that game. My point is that a loss to the Giants would likely indicate far bigger problems with this team that may be difficult to recover from. I’d rather not find out. So it may not be a must-win game, but it is a better-to-win game.