ARLINGTON, Texas -- This was an embarrassing performance on a big stage for the Dallas Cowboys on Thanksgiving Day. The 38-31 loss to the Washington Redskins has now placed the Cowboys playoffs hopes in dire straits.

You don't get credit for the second half comeback or playing hard in the NFL. You get credit for victories and the Cowboys didn't get one on Thursday.

With five games remaining in the regular season the Cowboys might have to win out and get some help with the New York Giants losing at least two games, to possibly win the division. If the Cowboys win four of their next five games, it might not be enough. And guess what? The Washington Redskins (5-6) are tied with the Cowboys for second place in the division and own the tie-breaker, head-to-head.