The Washington Commanders find themselves in an interesting predicament. While they might have endured a two-game losing streak, they are in a much more favorable position compared to a storied NFC East rival as the first game of the season between the two clubs approaches. The Dallas Cowboys, on the other hand, are facing significant complications. Currently languishing at 3-7 with no signs of life, their recent home defeat by the Houston Texans on Monday Night Football serves as a stark reminder of how far they have fallen in a short time.

Early Playoff Exits and the Microscope on Jerry Jones

This team has always been hyped up during the offseason, with fans eagerly buying into the media praise. However, it often comes with little substance. Early playoff exits after dominating the regular season have become a trend, and this campaign feels completely different. This has brought the microscope further onto owner/general manager Jerry Jones' handling of team affairs.The absence of quarterback Dak Prescott is being keenly felt. As the NFL's highest-paid player, he is out for the year with a seriously torn hamstring. Cooper Rush has been filling the void, but his production has been far from satisfactory. There have been deafening calls to install Trey Lance and see what they have in the former No. 3 overall selection acquired via trade from the San Francisco 49ers.

Jerry Jones' Stubbornness

Jerry Jones remains hilariously stubborn. He claims that Rush gives them the best chance to win and that Lance will stay on the sidelines in Week 12 at Northwest Stadium. This decision has left many scratching their heads. His confidence in Rush based on his output this season is a mystery. Rush has completed 57.5 percent of his passes for 566 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions. His QBR stands at 26.4, and his bad throw percentage is 12.1 according to Pro Football Reference.Although Rush threw for more than 350 yards against the Texans, most of it came in garbage time. Coupled with the improvements made by Washington's defense in recent weeks, it becomes clear why they can make life difficult for the Central Michigan product.

Dan Quinn's Inside Knowledge

Dan Quinn also knows more about Rush than most. He came to Washington from the Cowboys this offseason after being scapegoated for their postseason defeat to the Green Bay Packers. This inside knowledge is likely to serve the Commanders well in a must-win game for the organization.Some fans are treating this result as a foregone conclusion, but that won't be the attitude within the building. Regardless of how much Jones' fumbling is holding the Cowboys back, the Commanders need to be professional and execute their game plan effectively to get the win. The more misery it piles on Jones, the better.