The Dallas Cowboys secured a thrilling 20-17 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday night, thanks to a last-second touchdown pass from Dak Prescott to Jalen Tolbert with just 20 seconds on the clock. Under immense pressure from the Steelers defense, Prescott threw the winning pass, giving the Cowboys (3-2) their second straight win and revitalizing their season after a rough start.
Prescott Finds Its Rhythm
Prescott, who struggled throughout the game, came up big when it mattered most. Despite throwing two interceptions and nearly losing the game due to a fumble, he finished with 352 air yards. With 4:56 on the clock, Prescott led a 70-yard, 15-play drive to secure the victory. A pivotal moment occurred when Prescott recovered a loose ball from Rico Dowdle near the goal line, setting up the final pass to Tolbert.
"We always talk about staying calm and being resilient, knowing there will be ups and downs. Tonight we proved that focus pays off," Prescott reflected after the win.
Steelers Offense Struggles Amid Mistakes
The Steelers (3-2), looking to bounce back from an earlier loss, struggled offensively with penalties and execution problems throughout the night. Quarterback Justin Fields threw for just 131 yards, completing 15 of 27 passes, including a touchdown to Pat Freiermuth that briefly put the Steelers ahead 17-13. Fields, who has faced challenges this season, is under pressure due to rumors circulating about the possible return of veteran quarterback Russell Wilson from injury.
"Penalties, missed opportunities, it all comes down to execution," Fields said, acknowledging the team's mistakes.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin hinted that Fields' struggles could lead to a re-evaluation of the quarterback position heading into next week's game against the Raiders in Las Vegas.
Cowboys Overcome Defensive Absences
Despite the absence of defensive stars Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence, the Cowboys defense held strong. The team limited Pittsburgh to just 226 yards while making crucial stops. Rico Dowdle was outstanding with 87 yards on the ground and caught a 22-yard touchdown pass, providing a much-needed boost to the Cowboys' ground game.
The Steelers defense, led by T.J. Watt, kept the game close. Watt's first-quarter catch over Prescott forced a fumble that stopped a promising Cowboys offense. Watt's half catch in the game marked his 100th career catch, making him the second-fastest player in the history of the NFL HISTORY to reach this milestone, accomplishing it in just 109 games.
Final Series Sella la Victoria
Although Dallas had several opportunities to extend its lead, turnovers and penalties kept Pittsburgh within reach. In the second quarter, an interception in the end zone by Donte Jackson stopped another Cowboys opportunity. In all, Dallas committed 11 penalties for 87 yards, giving Pittsburgh opportunities to stay in the game.
However, Prescott remained composed, leading a late series that defined the Cowboys' victory. With a struggling offensive line, Prescott showed his resilience, finding Tolbert for the decisive touchdown.
Who do you think will win the World Series#LasMayores x @Betcris pic.twitter.com/wAkCcKzpMA
- LasMayores (@LasMayores) October 4, 2024
Injury Update
Both teams suffered injuries during the game. Dallas defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, who was replacing DeMarcus Lawrence, left the game with a knee injury. The Steelers defense also suffered losses, with linebacker Nick Herbig leaving with a hamstring injury and DeMarvin Leal leaving the game with a stinger in the fourth quarter.
The Cowboys will return home to face the Detroit Lions next Sunday, hoping to continue the momentum of Prescott's breakthrough performance. Meanwhile, the Steelers, now facing back-to-back losses, will travel to Las Vegas to face the Raiders, possibly facing a decision on their quarterback situation as Fields' struggles continue and Wilson's return appears imminent.
