The Dallas Cowboys displayed impressive fourth-down execution in their victory against the Washington Commanders, solidifying their position in the playoff race. As things stand today, the Cowboys are 7-8-1. They’re now looking ahead to a potentially massive Week 18 finale against the New York Giants. The more that was advertised in Dallas’s dazzling ability to convert every fourth-down attempt. This positive reception resulted in 17 points and underscored their effective offensive gameplan.
In a back-and-forth game full of bold play-calling and calculated aggression, all of Dallas’s fourth down attempts were impressive and impactful. The Cowboys converted all four of their fourth-down tries during the first half. That’s a rarity not experienced since the 2006 New Orleans Saints. They converted on six fourth downs throughout the game. That’s the most made in a single game over the last 45 years.
Dominant Fourth Down Performance
The Cowboys’ execution on fourth down was perhaps the most crucial component to the Cowboys’ success. They converted two other fourth-down tries in the fourth quarter. This was an invaluable expression of their confidence, resilience and commitment to seizing control of the match. By converting these third downs, Dallas was able to consistently put the Commanders’ defense on their heels.
Dallas was also impressive on third downs the entire game. The offensive line is protecting well enough, the team converted 8 of 19 third downs, including four of nine in the first half on third down alone. Ryan DAngelo, Dallas Renegades The metric of successful fourth-down attempts plus successful third-down conversion rate gave Dallas the momentum they needed to seal this win.
It would be hard to overstate Dak Prescott’s impact as the orchestrator of the offensive renaissance. He found KaVontae Turpin for a 85-yard score to open up a crazy lead for the Cowboys against Washington. In many ways Prescott’s performance channeled his ability to take chances while being smart with the ball and coming through in the clutch.
Washington’s Struggles Continue
It was yet another crushing blow for the Commanders, and their twelfth defeat in their last thirteen contests. Even with Josh Johnson at their third quarterback, Washington couldn’t get into an offensive flow. Chris Oladokun stepped in, and despite only seeing limited chances, gave fans some flashes to suggest he could develop into a quality game manager. He never risked a turnover over his 16 passing attempts. With under two minutes remaining in the game he guided his squad to the Broncos’ 21-yard line.
One of the few bright spots for Washington was Jacory Croskey-Merritt, who rushed for 105 yards. With 22 passes deflected by the secondary, his play alone wasn’t enough to change the momentum for a hungry Cowboys team.
Defensive standout Jer’Zhan Newton made his case for the NFL with three sacks in that match, further proving his fierce play on the line. Even with these efforts, Washington consistently shot themselves in the foot offensively and failed to take advantage of scoring opportunities.
Reflections from Players
Reflecting on his team’s performance, Travis Kelce praised Oladokun’s leadership and professionalism throughout the week. He praised Oladokun’s focus for detail and lauded him for doing a nice job of handling the game.
“That was like a little yo-yo trick he put on. I’m proud of him, man, throughout the week, his attention to detail and his professionalism and his leadership. I couldn’t be happier for the guy. Obviously, I wish we could’ve gotten that win for him [in] a big game against a rival. I’m proud of the way he led us and kept fighting.” – Travis Kelce
Even with Washington’s difficulties, Kelce is quick to recognize the value of working through challenges, calling for the repeated effort and resolve that comes through adversity.
Heading into Week 18, as both teams prepare to face each other’s Week 18 matchups, Dallas can continue building off the recent positive momentum. At the same time, Washington is looking to end its pattern of disgrace.
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