LANDOVER, MD

The Cowboys faced some early challenges in the first half, resulting in a closely contested game. However, they stayed focused on their strategy, regrouped, and secured a convincing victory to conclude the regular season with a 12-5 record, clinching the NFC East title (Dallas Cowboys).

Despite the overall success, there were pivotal moments that impacted the game’s trajectory, often overlooked but instrumental in shaping the final outcome.

Key Fourth-down Stop by Clark and the Defense – While the Cowboys struggled initially to thwart the Commanders on fourth down, a crucial play in the first possession of the game shifted the momentum. Facing fourth-and-2 on the Dallas 31-yard line, the Commanders attempted a reverse play, but linebacker Damone Clark, along with a group of defenders, thwarted the effort, gaining possession for the Cowboys. This not only halted Washington’s early momentum but also allowed the Cowboys to promptly drive for a touchdown.

Dallas Cowboys

Late Hit on Lamb by Washington LB – Trailing 10-7 in the second quarter, the Cowboys faced an uphill battle. A late hit by Washington linebacker Cody Barton on CeeDee Lamb, following an 8-yard pass, resulted in a 15-yard penalty, advancing the Cowboys to Washington’s 48. Capitalizing on this opportunity, Dallas executed a six-play drive culminating in a 1-yard Tony Pollard touchdown run, seizing the lead.

Dowdle’s Redemption Catch – A dropped pass by Rico Dowdle just before halftime could have been a missed opportunity. However, the Cowboys remained resilient, repeating the play on second down. This time, Dowdle successfully caught the ball, advancing 32 yards down the sideline. The completion positioned the Cowboys for another score, extending their halftime lead to 21-10.

Dallas Cowboys

Critical Third-and-5 Conversions – In the early third quarter with a 21-10 lead, the Cowboys aimed to solidify their control. Two consecutive third-and-5 situations saw Dak Prescott connecting with CeeDee Lamb for a 10-yard gain near midfield and later finding Jake Ferguson for a 7-yard completion. These conversions sustained the drive, ultimately resulting in a touchdown by Lamb and expanding Dallas’s lead to 28-10.

Parsons’ Game-sealing Sack – While already holding a commanding 28-10 lead, the Cowboys ensured victory with a pivotal third-down sack by Micah Parsons midway through the third quarter. The 9-yard loss forced a punt, subsequently blocked by Peyton Hendershot. Taking over at the 9-yard line, the Cowboys, despite facing two penalties, managed to score on a pass to Brandin Cooks, securing a 35-10 lead and sealing the game.