Cowboys become 1st team to clinch playoff berth
Jeremy Miron / USA TODAY Sports
The Dallas Cowboys didn't play Sunday, but became the first team to punch their ticket to the postseason.
After the Washington Redskins lost to the Arizona Cardinals, the Cowboys were ensured a playoff berth. The Cowboys would've also clinched a spot if the Tampa Bay Buccaneers lost Sunday.
Dallas defeated the Minnesota Vikings 17-15 on Thursday, led by Ezekiel Elliott and Dez Bryant's touchdowns.
It's a welcome return for the Cowboys, after missing the playoffs last year with a 4-12 record.