After a couple of weeks off, we are back with another edition of 4 Downs this time to share our thoughts about the Dallas Cowboys 22-19 win over the Atlanta Falcons to move to 5-5.
First down- Offense gets on track
It has been no secret that the Cowboys have struggled at times on offense this season. While they still kicked too many field goals then one would like they found the end zone twice and had impressive drives. One touchdown drive took 17 plays and another field goal drive took 15 plays. Despite a banged up line the Cowboys got back to what they do best and that’s running the ball. Ezekiel Elliott had over 200 total yards with 123 coming on the ground. He also led in receiving with 79 yards and had 30 touches on the day. This trend needs to continue for the Cowboys moving forward.
Second down- Brett Maher
Maher has had a rough stretch. Missed field goals in three straight games, missed three of last five and missed an extra point today. However, he was able to shake it off and hit the 42-yard game winner as it eked inside the right upright as time expired. Say what you will about his struggles he stepped up in the clutch and without his three field goals, the Cowboys would have returned home with a loss.
Third down- Dak Prescott
Prescott has received a lot of flak recently but has had the support of management including owner Jerry Jones who said he wouldn’t even trade him for two first round picks. Prescott showed why today going 22-of-32 for 208 yards and adding a touchdown on the ground. Most importantly he showed poise that had been missing and with the game on the line was able to lead the offense down the field for the game-winning field goal. Even though the stats might not show it this was arguably one of his better games on the season. The Cowboys need this version of Prescott more as they fight for a playoff spot.
Fourth down- Defense steps up
Despite allowing 354 yards the Cowboys defense was a huge factor in the win. They notched three sacks, two from Demarcus Lawrence and one from Randy Gregory. They came up huge holding the Falcons to a field goal inside the 3-yard line and came away with perhaps the play of the game as rookie Leighton Vander Esch came up with an interception setting up the offense for a touchdown giving them a 10 point lead. Through three quarters they allowed 214 yards. More performances like this are needed down the stretch.
