Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4). Jim Rassol / USA TODAY NETWORK

NFL Week 18: Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Commanders betting picks, preview

By Griffin Carroll | Last updated 1/4/24

If the Dallas Cowboys can beat the Washington Commanders, they'll win the NFC East. That feels like a near inevitability, but can they cover the massive spread?

Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Commanders: Betting Odds

Spread: Dallas -13, Over/under: 47 points, Dallas -850 | Washington +575

The Cowboys sit at 11-5 off a controversial win over the Detroit Lions, and control their own destiny with a win this Sunday. It's been worth noting where Dallas is playing, as they're 8-0 at home but only 3-5 on the road. They lost to Washington last time they came to town, but it does seem hard to imagine that happens here.

Washington is 4-12 and fighting for one of the best draft picks next April. Sam Howell has struggled, and this defense has been an absolute disaster in every single way, ranking among the NFL's worst in most categories, particularly against the pass.

The Cowboys are 9-7 ATS and the Commanders are 6-9-1. Dallas is 8-8 to the over while Washington is 9-7.

Dallas crushed Washington when they met on Thanksgiving, 45-10, doing anything they wanted on both sides of the football.

Betting Picks for Dallas vs. Washington

Cowboys -13

Dallas has been a different team on the road, but for this day, we have to back them to win, and win handedly.

For starters, the Cowboys know what's on the line. They can be the No. 2 seed with a win here, a massive advantage considering their home dominance this season. They also lost to Washington in last year's season finale when they had a chance to win the division, a mistake they won't be eager to replicate.

Then you consider Washington's motivation. A Commanders loss could give them the second pick in the draft, and a choice between one of the top two quarterback prospects in Caleb Williams and Drake Maye, a much-needed development for this franchise. Their new owner Josh Harris also owns the Sixers, a team that has never been shy to tank. Expect some funky lineup moves in this one.

Oh, and the Commanders secondary is the worst in the NFL and Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb have been an unstoppable duo. Dallas should cruise here, grab the big spread with confidence.

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