The Washington Commanders dominated the Dallas Cowboys, 26-6, Sunday, to end the season with an 8-8-1 record.
Yes, you read that sentence correctly; Washington dominated Dallas from start to finish after sitting multiple starters, while the Cowboys played everyone in their attempt to win the NFC East.
It seemed like things were going to break Washington’s way early when Dallas punter Bryan Anger dropped the snap, and linebacker Milo Eifler tackled him at the 20-yard line, giving the Commanders excellent field position.
Rookie quarterback Sam Howell, making his first career start, found wide receiver Terry McLaurin for a 16-yard touchdown to give the Commanders an early lead.
It was a lead they’d never relinquish.
Despite kicker Joey Slye missing two field goals and an extra point, the Commanders dominated Dallas in every phase of the game, from start to finish.
Washington cornerback Kendall Fuller’s interception return for a touchdown in the second quarter gave the Commanders a 13-0 lead. This was one play after Fuller almost picked off Prescott and returned it for a touchdown.
The Cowboys would score before the end of the half but missed the PAT, giving Washington a 13-6 lead going into halftime.
The second half was more of the same for Washington, who stuck with the run, even if it wasn’t working, and allowed Howell to make some plays with his legs. Howell punctuated one drive with a beautiful nine-yard touchdown run.
Howell had several good throws on the day, but his best throw was a 52-yard dime to McLaurin that traveled 60 yards in the air.
What a throw
What a catch
#DALvsWAS FOX pic.twitter.com/yNoqoOCtO6
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) January 8, 2023
Howell would end the day by completing 11 of 19 passes for 169 yards with a touchdown and interception. He also carried the ball five times for 35 yards with one score.
Washington outgained Dallas 309-182, with quarterback Dak Prescott completing only 14 of 37 passes for 128 yards with a touchdown and interception. Dallas finished the game with 64 rushing yards on 24 attempts.
Running back Jaret Patterson led the Commanders with 78 rushing yards on 17 attempts.
It was a disappointing final five weeks for Washington, but a dominant win over Dallas makes the end just a bit sweeter.