Historic Low for Cowboys' Season Expectations
The Dallas Cowboys, a team with a storied history in the NFL, are facing unprecedented pessimism in the betting world for the 2025 season. According to data from ESPN BET, the Cowboys' season win total has been set at a mere 7.5, marking the lowest preseason win total for the franchise since 2003. This significant drop reflects a broader concern among analysts and bettors about the team's performance potential under new head coach Brian Schottenheimer and with returning quarterback Dak Prescott.
This figure stands in stark contrast to previous years, where the Cowboys often entered the season with win totals projected at 9.5 or higher. The decline to 7.5 wins signals a lack of confidence in the team's ability to overcome challenges such as a questionable offensive line, limited talent at running back, and a history of penalties that plagued them last season. As reported, they ranked third in penalties per game and fifth in pre-snap penalties league-wide last year, issues that could continue to hinder their progress.
Betting Sentiment and Market Reactions
Despite the low win total projection, there remains a surprising level of optimism among some bettors. Posts found on X indicate that a significant portion of betting money—up to 85%—is still flowing toward the 'over' on the Cowboys achieving more than 7.5 wins. This suggests that many fans and bettors retain faith in the team, believing that if Dak Prescott plays at least 14 games, the Cowboys are unlikely to lose 10 or more games in the season.
Additional betting odds provide further context on the Cowboys' standing. Current figures list their odds at +200 to make the playoffs, +600 to win the NFC East, and a long shot of +5000 to win the Super Bowl. Within the NFC East, their win total of 7.5 is notably lower than the Philadelphia Eagles at 10.5 and the Washington Commanders at 9.5, highlighting the perceived gap between the Cowboys and their divisional rivals.
Challenges Ahead for Dallas in 2025
The road ahead for the Cowboys appears fraught with obstacles that justify the cautious outlook from oddsmakers. Analysts have pointed to several weaknesses, including an offensive line that struggles to protect the quarterback and a running back corps lacking depth and star power. These issues, combined with a new coaching regime under Brian Schottenheimer, contribute to the uncertainty surrounding the team's ability to rebound from recent disappointments.
Local predictions in Texas also reflect tempered expectations, with some sports directors forecasting the Cowboys to finish with just 7 or 8 wins. However, the enduring loyalty of the fan base and bettors' inclination to take the 'over' on 7.5 wins suggest that hope persists for a better-than-expected season. As the 2025 NFL season approaches, all eyes will be on Dallas to see if they can defy the odds and reclaim their status as contenders.