FRISCO, Texas — A crucial victory while being a double-digit underdog has ignited the Dallas Cowboys’ hopes for the playoffs in 2024, showing that all may not be lost yet. With Dak Prescott sidelined due to injury, Cooper Rush is expected to lead the team for the next few games, and to keep postseason discussions plausible, he will likely need to win three consecutive matches.
Currently, the Cowboys find themselves with a 4-7 record, yet they are projected as favorites in two of their upcoming games, including a four-point advantage this Thanksgiving against the New York Giants, who hold a dismal 2-9 record. Additionally, the Cowboys will face teams struggling with losing records over the next month, which offers some glimmer of hope for the defending NFC East champions, who have made the playoffs in each of the last three seasons.
Dallas recently broke a five-game losing streak with an unexpected 34-26 win against Washington. Star linebacker Micah Parsons, who is known for his candid assessments, acknowledged the gravity of the situation, pointing out that the team still has significant work ahead to overcome adversity and aim for a playoff berth.
The defense showed signs of improvement, performing impressively for 55 minutes, reminiscent of their dominant display from the season opener against Cleveland. However, they struggled in the final minutes against the Commanders, reminiscent of their performance throughout their previous nine games. Washington’s rookie quarterback, Jayden Daniels, engineered a drive that covered 69 yards to score, alongside an 86-yard touchdown pass in the closing seconds, demonstrating the volatility of the game.
Nevertheless, the Cowboys managed to maintain their lead thanks to two missed extra points by Austin Seibert and an unexpected onside kick return touchdown by Juanyeh Thomas, which could have cost them the game. Remarkably, while they made some mistakes, the defense held Washington’s offense to just 251 yards, marking a significant moment for the Cowboys, who had not achieved such an upset since 2010.
Coach Mike McCarthy described the win as necessary and acknowledged the frustrations the team has faced this season. He emphasized the importance of gaining momentum with another game on the horizon.
Rush, stepping in for Prescott who is out for the rest of the season due to a torn hamstring, ended his own three-game losing streak with an impressive outing. His passer rating of 117.6 was a personal best as a starter, and despite the NFL’s second-worst rushing attack, Rico Dowdle excelled with 86 yards on 19 carries, providing a much-needed boost.
The special teams, however, struggled significantly during the game. KaVontae Turpin’s exciting 99-yard kickoff return was a highlight, but the unit experienced its worst day under the leadership of special teams coordinator John Fassel. Kicker Brandon Aubrey missed crucial opportunities, including a blocked field-goal attempt and another miss.
In terms of player performances, cornerback Josh Butler had a standout day, recording 12 tackles, a sack, and three pass breakups, marking a solid debut after five years away from college football. Conversely, rookie left tackle Tyler Guyton faced challenges and was benched following a false start penalty, while his replacement Asim Richards might be sidelined due to an ankle injury. Veteran Chuma Edoga was activated but did not play, waiting for his season debut.
Injury concerns linger for the team, particularly with perennial All-Pro right guard Zack Martin and left guard Tyler Smith who both sat out against Washington. Smith may return, along with receiver Brandin Cooks, who has been out since Week 4. Tight end Jake Ferguson may miss another game due to a concussion, while cornerback Trevon Diggs is also questionable for the upcoming match.
As for Rush, he demonstrated remarkable efficiency with a completion rate of 75%, completing 24 of 32 passes for 247 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions. This performance parallels his earlier successful games when he stepped in for Prescott, laying a solid foundation for what lies ahead.
Coming up, the Cowboys have a brief respite before a Monday Night Football matchup against Cincinnati on December 9, followed by a road game at Carolina on December 15. The win over Washington offers a critical boost that Dallas hopes to build upon in the upcoming weeks.