Dallas Cowboys Keep NFC East Hopes Alive with Win over Detroit Lions
A late penalty on a 2-point conversion and a Donovan Wilson interception helped the Dallas Cowboys secure a 20-19 victory over the Detroit Lions, keeping their NFC East hopes alive. The win moves the Cowboys a half-game behind the Philadelphia Eagles in the standings, putting pressure on them as they play their Week 17 game against the Arizona Cardinals. The Lions, on the other hand, fall a half-game behind both the Eagles and the San Francisco 49ers for home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
Dallas Cowboys (11-5)
Coach Mike McCarthy referred to the three-game stretch as “playoff games without playoff consequences,” but the Cowboys showed with their win over the Lions that they have the potential to win playoff games with consequences. While their Super Bowl drought may not end this year, the Cowboys have proven that they are a competitive team. Quarterback Dak Prescott and receiver CeeDee Lamb were nearly unstoppable, and the defense came up with crucial interceptions to secure the victory. The win keeps the Cowboys alive in the NFC East race and forces the Philadelphia Eagles to continue winning. The Cowboys finished the season with a perfect 8-0 record at AT&T Stadium.
Troubling Trend: Run Defense
The Cowboys’ run defense continues to be a concern, as they allowed the Lions to establish the line of scrimmage and gain 118 yards on the ground. This marks the 10th time this season that the Cowboys have allowed at least 100 rushing yards in a game. However, the defense was able to make key plays when it mattered most, including a crucial penalty that wiped out a go-ahead 2-point conversion.
Eye-Popping Stat: Prescott’s Touchdown Pass
One of the standout moments of the game was Dak Prescott’s 92-yard touchdown pass to CeeDee Lamb in the first quarter. Prescott showed incredible resilience by avoiding a sack and connecting with Lamb for the third-longest offensive play in team history.
Detroit Lions (11-5)
Despite their sixth straight loss to the Cowboys, the Detroit Lions showcased the aggressiveness and gritty style of coach Dan Campbell. Quarterback Jared Goff managed the game effectively, but it wasn’t enough to secure the victory. The Lions are guaranteed a top-three seed in the playoffs, but a win would have greatly improved their chances of securing home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
Promising Trend: Aidan Hutchinson’s Sacks
Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson had a standout performance with three sacks against the Cowboys. After going two games without a sack, Hutchinson’s performance is a promising sign for the Lions’ defense heading into the regular-season finale and playoffs.
Both teams will look to build on their performances in their next games. The Dallas Cowboys will face off against the Washington Commanders, while the Detroit Lions will take on the Minnesota Vikings.