The Dallas Cowboys’ 20-17 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers might not jump out as a blowout, but it was far more than just a three-point win. The Cowboys moved to 3-2, one of nine teams with that record in the NFL, and climbed to second in the NFC East. However, what makes this win stand out is how they got it done.
This wasn’t just about beating a solid 3-1 Steelers team. The Cowboys endured a 1-hour, 26-minute weather delay caused by a severe thunderstorm, along with countless injuries, including the absence of key players like Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence, and Brandin Cooks. Despite losing several starters during the game—including rookie left tackle Tyler Guyton—Dallas fought through adversity at every turn.
Penalties and turnovers were nearly their undoing, with the Cowboys flagged 11 times and turning the ball over three times. Still, they showed resilience, grinding out a tough win on the road in front of 67,380 fans at Acrisure Stadium.
“Yeah, I mean, as I said, resilient,” said quarterback Dak Prescott after the game. “Resilient.”
Prescott led a 70-yard game-winning drive, capping it off with a four-yard touchdown pass to Jalen Tolbert, who continues to prove his value in Year 3. The Cowboys’ offense racked up 445 total yards, with Rico Dowdle contributing 87 rushing yards, a career-high, along with a touchdown.
While the Steelers’ reputation for physical football was well-known, it was the Cowboys who played with grit, often deemed “too physical,” as shown by three personal foul penalties. Still, they won the time of possession battle, converted 60% of third downs, and overcame their own mistakes to leave Pittsburgh with a victory.
Head coach Mike McCarthy was proud of his team’s effort, calling it a “helluva win.” He praised the team’s composure and resiliency, particularly with so many backup players stepping up in key moments.
As Dak Prescott added, it was time to head home and get some rest after a night of rain, resilience, and proving that the Cowboys can fight through the toughest challenges.
“Now we’re ready to go home and get some lunch,” Prescott said, closing out a memorable night for Dallas football.
