In their recent "Sunday Night Football" matchup, the Dallas Cowboys managed to pull out a 20-17 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, despite struggling in the red zone for much of the game. Dak Prescott connected with Jalen Tolbert for the decisive touchdown on a fourth-and-goal play, where Tolbert managed to create just enough separation from Steelers safety DeShon Elliott.
Despite Prescott’s three turnovers, the Cowboys dominated in total yardage, outgaining the Steelers 445 to 226. The victory, albeit somewhat messy, improved Dallas's record to 3-2, leaving them just one game behind the surprising Washington Commanders in the early NFC East standings.
The game hinged on a crucial fourth down, where Prescott stood firm in the pocket and delivered a perfectly placed pass to Tolbert. Following the successful extra point by Brandon Aubrey, the Steelers had only 20 seconds to try and tie the game. Meanwhile, the Cowboys had already advanced 37 yards in seven plays, positioning themselves at the Steelers' 33-yard line with three timeouts remaining, ready to reclaim the lead.
Criticism on Prescott
In recent seasons, Dak Prescott has faced criticism as a "stat monster" who struggles to convert impressive statistics into wins for the Dallas Cowboys. Currently, he ranks third in the league in passing yards, contributing to the team’s 2-2 record. However, the Cowboys’ defense has been a significant concern, particularly in rush defense, despite a solid performance against the Giants where they allowed just 26 rushing yards. With Demarcus Lawrence out for at least a month due to injury, the Cowboys face challenges ahead.
This scenario could benefit the 3-1 Pittsburgh Steelers, who excel in rushing, currently sitting in the top ten for the season. Quarterback Justin Fields is still finding his rhythm, and although Russell Wilson is nearing a return from a calf injury, the Steelers' formidable defense—ranked second in points allowed and fourth in yards allowed—may only need a game manager to help secure a win and establish a lead in the competitive AFC North.
Stats
The Pittsburgh Steelers, who had a strong 3-1 record playing at home, and matchup against the 2-2 Dallas Cowboys before the game.. Coming into this game With seven more home games this season, the Steelers were determined to protect their turf, where they've already outscored opponents by 22 points. Meanwhile, Dallas, despite winning both their road games, has struggled with a negative point differential of minus-7.
The Steelers have a major edge when it comes to turnover battles--since 2020, they've dominated games when they avoid turnovers, going 22-3 when they don't cough up the ball. However, the Cowboys could pose a threat with their offensive firepower, averaging 5.4 yards per play, compared to Pittsburgh's 4.9.
Dallas' biggest weakness lies in their run defense, having surrendered 282 more rushing yards than they've gained in 2024. The Steelers, while only producing 3.7 yards per rush, have outperformed their opponents on the ground by 41.7 yards per game.
Weather Havoc
The start of the game was delayed due to bad weather.
"Kickoff for Sunday night's Dallas Cowboys-Pittsburgh Steelers game at Acrisure Stadium has been delayed due to inclement weather. Originally scheduled to begin at 8:20 p.m. ET, the game will now kick off around 9:45 p.m. ET, according to the NBC broadcast. Players are expected to return to the field at 9:25 p.m. ET. With severe thunderstorms and lightning in the area, players were sent off the field and fans were asked to take cover and exit the seating bowl," read official statement.
