As the second quarter came to an end, it took a few drives for the Cowboys to get back on track and regain the lead. With touchdown drives on both sides of the half, they achieved the coveted double-double. Before finally benching the starters in the fourth quarter, Peyton Hendershot blocked a punt to help Prescott & Co. open a 25-point lead (with his fourth touchdown pass of the day and his 36th touchdown throw of the season, probably enough to finish first in the league).
Cornerback Stephon Gilmore left the game early due to a shoulder injury and did not return, so the victory was not without a price. Even if the injury’s full degree is unknown, it will undoubtedly be a big worry once the playoffs begin.
The Cowboys will have a week to assess how Zack Martin’s recent illness and injuries to Gilmore and Tyler Smith might affect their postseason preparation. However, for the time being, America’s Team can celebrate winning the NFC East, earning the No. 2 seed in the conference, and having an unprecedented third consecutive 12-win season—all because of a decisive victory against their bitter rivals.
