A quick start and stout defensive performance powered the Dallas Cowboys to a 41-21 win over the Philadelphia Eagles. Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott playing in his first home game in 351 days, threw for 238 yards and led an offense that didn’t punt until the 4:11 mark in the second quarter. Equally impressive was the defense, who despite being shorthanded, forced 33 turnovers adding to their league-high eight. Below are the four biggest takeaways from tonight’s game.
Run Game
After being non-existent in the season opener, the Dallas Cowboys built off a strong rushing outing last week, rushing for 158 yards on 42 carries. Leading the way was the duo of Ezikell Eillott and Tony Pollard. Elliott finished with 95 yards while Pollard had 60 and, for the first time this season rushing for under seven yards a carry. Credit must be given to the offensive line as well. Despite their struggles in pass protection, and guard Connor Williams’s three holding calls, they dominated the Eagles’ weak run defense. Performances like this need to continue.
Tight Ends Shine
While receiver CeeDee Lamb led in yards with 66, it was tight end Dalton Schultz who had his best game of the season, hauling in 6 catches for 80 yards and two scores. He converted several first downs and gave the Eagles pass defense fits all game. Fellow tight end Blake Jarwin only had two catches but did a great job blocking on the edge. Kudos to both of those guys for great outings.
Defense Shows Promise
Cornerback Trevon Diggs pick-six to open the second half stifled any momentum Philly had and was one of several Cowboy defenders to have solid outings. Fellow cornerback Anthony Brown also notched an interception while rookie ends Osa Odighizuwa and Micah Parsons notched two sacks. Most impressive was the fact that Dallas held Philly to just 4 of 12 on third downs, 0 of 2 on fourth downs, and just 64 yards rushing all outstanding numbers.
Prescott Dominates
Fighting the emotions of playing his first home game since his brutal ankle injury last season, Prescott turned in a great outing, only missing five passes. Most importantly, he didn’t force anything and took what the defense gave him. All of this despite being sacked four times, including a strip-sack in the end zone, that resulted in one of Philly’s only two scores. More performances like this are needed from Prescott moving forward.
