The Dallas Cowboys pulled off a thrilling 34-26 victory over the Washington Commanders in Week 12, ending their five-game losing streak. At the heart of their success was star linebacker Micah Parsons, who not only delivered a dominant on-field performance but also made it clear where he stands on the controversial topic of “tanking.”
“I’m not done yet. I don’t plan on tanking. If the higher-ups are looking for a draft pick, I hope that’s ruined, because we got a lot of football left to play,” Parsons said after the game. “As long as I’m a part of this team, we’re always going to fight.”
Parsons Leads the Charge
Parsons made his argument with action, filling the stat sheet with eight tackles, two sacks, and two stuffs. His relentless pressure helped Dallas hold Washington to just 4-of-12 on third downs, stalling drives and keeping the Cowboys in control.
Despite Washington’s 411 total yards, including a strong showing by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, the Commanders couldn’t overcome their mistakes. Daniels finished with 274 passing yards, two touchdowns, and 74 rushing yards, but two costly interceptions proved too much to overcome.
Balanced Attack on Offense
The Cowboys’ offense complemented the defensive effort with its most balanced performance in weeks. Quarterback Cooper Rush completed 24 of 32 passes for 247 yards and two touchdowns, while Rico Dowdle added 86 rushing yards.
Special teams also played a pivotal role, highlighted by KaVontae Turpin’s 99-yard kickoff return touchdown late in the game.
Chaotic Finish and Micah’s Reflections
The final moments were nothing short of chaotic. After Turpin’s touchdown gave Dallas a 27-17 lead, Washington answered with an 86-yard touchdown pass from Daniels to Terry McLaurin. But Cowboys defender Juanyeh Thomas responded with a rare onside kick return touchdown, sealing the game.
“I’ve never been a part of something like that,” Parsons said. “Letting them get that touchdown at the end really bothered me. But that’s what I mean when I say we’re a good team. We’re slowly putting games together.”
A Philosophical Battle
While Parsons is adamant about fighting for every win, the front office may see things differently. The Cowboys sit at 4-7 and are unlikely to make the playoffs. With three winnable games ahead, management could view losses as more beneficial for draft positioning.
Parsons, however, has made it clear: the players are here to compete, not to play for next season.
Looking Ahead
The Cowboys will now prepare for their Thanksgiving matchup against the New York Giants. Fresh off a 30-7 loss to the Buccaneers and reeling from the release of quarterback Daniel Jones, the Giants are searching for answers.
Micah Parsons and the Cowboys, meanwhile, will look to build on their momentum and prove they’re still in the fight—regardless of any “tanking” discussions swirling around them.
For now, Parsons’ fiery leadership keeps Dallas focused on winning, even if the long-term strategy might suggest otherwise.
