There's no doubt in Dak Prescott's mind when it comes to if he wants to play against the New York Giants next week.
The Dallas Cowboys secured a 30-23 win over the Washington Commanders at Northwest Stadium, but the game had fans holding their breath.
Why? Because a host of starters played the entire game, one of which was Dak Prescott.
With the back-and-forth of whether Dallas should "Organically Tank" or play the starters for culture, according to Brian Schottenheimer, this game was a great illustration of why Dak should be shut down for the year.
Yes, he threw for over 300 yards, had two touchdowns and played reasonably well en route to scoring 30 points.
But Dak was sacked a whopping six times.
Plus, he took a lot of unnecessary hits as well.
‘Cocky’ Cowboys Struggle Late But Survive Commanders Rally
We have stated that playing Dak is a risk, and that if an injury were to occur that hinders Dallas' 2026 season, that would be nightmare fuel.
And having Prescott sacked as often as he was, in a meaningless game mind you, that isn't good.
But will Dak want to play in the Cowboys' season finale against the New York Giants next week?
“For sure," Prescott said post-game. "No question about it.”
Well, Dak is right. There's no question about it.
READ MORE: ‘Winners & Losers’ from Cowboys Christmas Day Win at Commanders
There is zero reason for No. 4 to be on the field at MetLife Stadium next week.
Yes, we get Schottenheimer's desire to win for his culture, but playing Dak in Week 18 with nothing on the line is a decision frought with pitfalls.
Players will always want to play, and Dak has repeatedly stated he won't cheat the game or sit when he's healthy enough to suit up.
Still ...
The Cowboys put Prescott in harm's way against the Commanders when they didn't have to. ... all so they could move to 7-8-1?
And if Prescott does play against the Giants in Week 18, that is one almighty risk Schottenheimer is taking in the name of "culture'' and a chance at a .500 record.