Cowboys Break Five-Game Losing Streak with Dramatic 34-26 Triumph Over Commanders!
2024-11-24
Author: Jessica Wong
Cowboys Break Five-Game Losing Streak with Dramatic 34-26 Triumph Over Commanders!
In an electrifying showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the Dallas Cowboys staged an impressive 34-26 upset against the Washington Commanders, snapping their frustrating five-game losing streak. This victory not only improves the Cowboys' record to 4-7 but also sends the Commanders down to 7-5, shaking up the playoff race in the NFC.
The game, which started as a defensive battle and was tied 3-3 at halftime, witnessed a flurry of late-game action, culminating in one of the most thrilling finishes seen in the NFL this season. With just 3:02 remaining on the clock, Washington quarterback Jayden Daniels delivered a 4-yard touchdown pass to tight end Zach Ertz, followed by his own successful 2-point conversion run, narrowing Dallas's lead to just three points at 20-17.
However, just moments later, Cowboys' KaVontae Turpin scored a jaw-dropping 99-yard kickoff return touchdown, seemingly sealing the game for Dallas with a 27-17 advantage. The Commanders weren't done yet, though. Austin Seibert nailed a 51-yard field goal, making it 27-20 with 1:40 left on the clock. When the Commanders regained possession with only 33 seconds to go, they pulled off a spectacular play: wide receiver Terry McLaurin raced 86 yards through the Cowboys' defense to score, making the game one point away from being tied.
In a shocking twist, Seibert missed the extra point attempt—his second miss of the day—leaving Washington trailing 27-26. Desperate for possession, the Commanders attempted an onside kick, but the Cowboys' Juanyeh Thomas scooped it up and dashed 43 yards into the end zone, stretching the lead back to 34-26.
The game should have ended with Dallas kneeling the ball to run out the clock, but Thomas's score forced the Cowboys to kick off again. This gave Daniels one last chance for a Hail Mary. Unfortunately for the Commanders, Daniels' pass fell short of the end zone, and Cowboys' cornerback Israel Mukuamu intercepted, sealing the Cowboys’ much-needed win.
Cooper Rush impressed with a solid performance, completing 24 of 32 passes for 247 yards and tossing two touchdown strikes. Meanwhile, running back Rico Dowdle added 86 yards on the ground, and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb made 10 catches for 67 yards.
Defensively, Micah Parsons was a standout, notching two of the Cowboys' four sacks against Daniels, who managed to throw for 275 yards with two daunting interceptions. In addition to his passing stats, Daniels showcased his versatility with 74 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown on seven attempts. McLaurin was a bright spot for Washington, recording five receptions for an impressive 102 yards and a touchdown.
With this stunning performance, the Cowboys have not only renewed their season hope but also set the stage for an intense remainder of the year as the playoff picture becomes increasingly competitive. Will they build on this momentum, or will they fall back into their previous struggles? Only time will tell!