The Dallas Cowboys snapped their five-game losing streak in dramatic fashion on Sunday, defeating the Washington Commanders 34-26. What started as a low-scoring affair turned into chaos in the fourth quarter, with both teams trading blows in one of the most thrilling finishes of the season.
Here are 10 major takeaways from the Cowboys’ unexpected victory:
1. Madness in the Fourth Quarter
The game went from a defensive slog to utter mayhem in the final minutes. Entering the fourth quarter with a 10-9 score, the Cowboys and Commanders exploded for 38 points in the last five minutes. The sequence included five touchdowns and a field goal, capped by Juanyeh Thomas’ onside-kick return touchdown. It was the kind of madness fans will be talking about for weeks.
2. Special Teams Chaos
Big plays on special teams defined the game. The Cowboys endured a blocked field goal and a blocked punt early but struck back late with KaVontae Turpin’s 99-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. Thomas’ improbable onside-kick return sealed the win. Though it wasn’t perfect, the unit delivered when it mattered most.
3. Brandon Aubrey’s Struggles at FedEx Field
Rookie kicker Brandon Aubrey had an uncharacteristically rough day. After entering the game with a perfect field goal record, he suffered his first miss on a blocked kick. Things only got worse with a second block and a doink off the goalpost. FedEx Field seems to have Aubrey’s number.
4. Turpin Delivers Again
KaVontae Turpin proved his value once more with another game-changing play. His 99-yard kickoff return came at a critical moment when the Cowboys needed a spark, marking his second straight week with a 60-plus yard touchdown.
5. Defensive Breakdown on McLaurin’s Touchdown
After Turpin’s heroics, the defense faltered. Jayden Daniels connected with Terry McLaurin for an 86-yard touchdown where poor angles and missed tackles made it look effortless. It was a low point for an otherwise solid defensive performance.
6. Makeshift Offensive Line Stands Tall
Despite missing All-Pro linemen Zack Martin and Tyler Smith, the Cowboys’ patchwork offensive line held up well. With rookies Cooper Beebe and Tyler Guyton stepping in, the line provided Cooper Rush enough protection to complete 75% of his passes. Rico Dowdle also managed 86 yards on the ground, proving the group’s resilience.
7. Rookie Mistakes Persist
The rookies on the line weren’t flawless. Beebe struggled with high snaps, and Guyton was flagged for mental errors that led to his temporary benching. While their overall performance was strong, these growing pains will need to be addressed.
8. Josh Butler Impresses Again
Cornerback Josh Butler had a standout performance in back-to-back games. With 12 tackles, three pass breakups, and a sack, he showed why the team trusted him with significant snaps, even as rookie Caelen Carson remained a healthy scratch.
9. Defense Steps Up Against Slumping Offense
The Cowboys’ defense had its best outing in weeks, forcing three turnovers and stifling Washington’s running game. However, it’s worth noting that Kliff Kingsbury’s offenses are known for midseason struggles. While the defense deserves credit, the Commanders’ woes may have helped their cause.
10. A Bittersweet Victory
While the win was a morale boost, it came at a cost. With the Cowboys unlikely to make the playoffs, this victory impacts their draft position. Additionally, helping the Commanders lose nudges the Philadelphia Eagles closer to clinching the NFC East. For fans eyeing the future, the victory feels bittersweet.
Final Thoughts
The Cowboys’ win was chaotic, thrilling, and a much-needed respite in a difficult season. It wasn’t perfect, but the team showed flashes of resilience and gave fans something to cheer about. Whether it’s a turning point or just a fun moment in a lost season remains to be seen, but for now, Dallas can savor the victory.
