The Dallas Cowboys return to Monday Night Football for the first time this season, hosting the Houston Texans in a much-anticipated in-state showdown.

While the Cowboys have endured a four-game losing streak, the Texans aren’t in much better shape, having dropped three of their last four games. As the Cowboys aim to snap their skid, the Texans will be gunning for their first-ever victory at AT&T Stadium. Here are the 10 biggest storylines to watch for as these two teams face off.

For the Cowboys:

1. Ending the Losing Streak

The Cowboys’ four-game losing streak has been a cause for concern, as they’ve struggled on both sides of the ball. Dak Prescott, who has thrown interceptions in each of the last three games, must regain his rhythm to lead the offense back to form.

2. Inconsistent Offensive Line Play

Dallas’ offensive line has had its ups and downs, particularly in protecting Prescott and creating running lanes for Ezekiel Elliott. The line must perform better, as Houston’s defense has been aggressive this season, and pressure could stymie the Cowboys’ attack.

3. Defensive Dominance

The Cowboys’ defense, which started the season on fire, has cooled off in recent weeks. Micah Parsons and company will need to bounce back with a dominant performance, especially against rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud, who will be looking to prove himself on the big stage.

4. Dak Prescott’s Decision-Making

Prescott’s recent struggles have raised questions about his decision-making, particularly his interceptions. The Cowboys will need him to be more efficient and avoid costly mistakes that have hurt the team in recent losses.

5.The Need for a Ground Game

Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard are critical to Dallas’ success, but the running game has struggled to get going lately. For the Cowboys to break their losing streak, they need a more balanced offense to keep Houston’s defense on its heels.

For the Texans:

1.Stroud’s Growth

Rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud has shown flashes of promise, but he’s still learning the ropes of the NFL. This game represents a huge opportunity for Stroud to build on his confidence and prove he can handle the pressure of a primetime game against a top-tier defense.

2. Finding Offensive Consistency

The Texans have been inconsistent offensively, especially with their running game, where rookie running back Dameon Pierce has yet to hit his stride. Houston must find a way to balance the offense and take pressure off Stroud in a tough road environment.

3. Shoring Up the Defense  

While the Texans’ defense has played tough at times, they’ve been prone to giving up big plays. Facing a potent Cowboys offense, Houston will need to focus on limiting explosive plays and finding a way to pressure Prescott into mistakes.

4.Historically Bad Record at AT&T Stadium

Houston has never won at AT&T Stadium, and this matchup presents an opportunity to change that narrative. The Texans will have to overcome the psychological barrier of playing in a hostile environment to earn their first win in Dallas.

5. Coaching Decisions

Texans’ head coach DeMeco Ryans is still finding his footing in his first season. His ability to make the right calls, especially in critical moments, could make the difference in whether or not Houston has a chance to pull off the upset.

As the Cowboys and Texans face off in a critical Monday Night Football game, both teams have plenty to prove. For Dallas, it’s about ending the losing streak and reclaiming their dominance.

For Houston, it’s about proving they can compete on the road and break a historic curse. With so many storylines at play, this matchup is sure to be one to remember.