Dallas Cowboys Secure Favorable Playoff Position with Convincing Victory Over Washington Commanders: Evaluating Key Factors Beyond Statistics

The Dallas Cowboys find themselves in a favorable position after convincingly handling the Washington Commanders with a resounding 38-10 victory. Not only did this secure them the second seed in the NFC, guaranteeing a home game to commence the playoffs, but also potentially more if they progress past the wild card round against the Green Bay Packers. However, beyond the evident statistics, there are subtle observations from the season finale that could prove beneficial in their postseason journey. Let’s delve into these less apparent factors that might contribute to their advancement.

The head coach nearly had it perfected.

Mike McCarthy, despite his season’s share of missteps, showcased what might be considered his best coaching performance of the year. While game-day actions usually take the spotlight, a head coach’s responsibilities span the entire week, with preparation standing out as a critical aspect of the job. This became especially pivotal for the Washington game. Despite Dallas securing a favorable position the previous week, the narrow and contentious victory over the Detroit Lions failed to instill significant confidence in the team’s recovery from the preceding back-to-back losses. McCarthy needed to ensure the team remained focused on performing well and setting a positive tone as they approached the playoffs.

Adding to the challenge was the possibility of the Cowboys clinching the NFC East title even with a loss, contingent on the Philadelphia Eagles’ continued struggles. McCarthy deserves substantial credit for effectively motivating and preparing his team for the crucial final game, a quality he will need to sustain.

Furthermore, McCarthy exhibited a masterful approach to calling the offense, particularly in adverse outdoor conditions. Dallas has historically faced difficulties in challenging weather, but the team thrived in the windy and cold game. Notably, they not only posted a significant score but also moved the ball with remarkable efficiency, accumulating 31 first downs. In contrast to many games where they heavily relied on converting third downs, they only faced ten in the entire game, boasting a 60% success rate.

Additionally, they executed one fourth-down conversion. Impressively, nine of their first downs occurred on the initial plays of drives, showcasing efficiency on early downs. Quick calculations reveal that they achieved the other fifteen first downs on early downs, a notable accomplishment. The success was so pronounced that punter Bryan Anger never had to punt. While the offensive players played a significant role, McCarthy deserves credit for strategically positioning them for success. The only potential criticism could be directed at McCarthy for not introducing Cooper Rush and other backups earlier, but this decision might have been justified by the desire to ensure that Dak Prescott and other starters were fully prepared for upcoming challenges, especially considering Prescott’s well-protected performance throughout the entire game.

Offensive line depth

The positive development is that all the starters will reunite for the wild card game against the Packers.

The #Cowboys starting offensive line will be back "in full force" for their playoff matchup against the Packers — per SJ to @1053thefan.

Tyler Smith (foot), Zack Martin (illness) were sidelined in the open-handed slap against the Commanders in Week 18.

All hands on deck vs. GB

— Patrik [No C] Walker (@VoiceOfTheStar) January 8, 2024

The commendable performance of T.J. Bass and Brock Hoffman against the Commanders should not be overlooked. Prescott remained well-protected throughout the game, with no imminent threat of being sacked, and Washington failed to register a single hit on him. Furthermore, effective holes were created for the running backs. Initially, there were concerns about the depth of the offensive line at the beginning of the season, but the situation has improved significantly. The other backups on the offensive line gained valuable experience when the starters took a break, with Matt Waletzko being among them. The potential for quality depth on the line is becoming apparent, a crucial factor for success in the playoffs.

QB1 was on fire

McCarthy orchestrated a masterful game plan, which included an impressive two-minute drill resulting in a score just before halftime. Equally noteworthy was Prescott’s stellar performance in executing the strategy. Completing over 80% of his passes, Prescott achieved this feat for the fourth time this season, setting a new NFL record (albeit over the extended seventeen-game season).

Prescott adeptly adhered to the game plan tailored for the windy conditions, refraining from taking deep shots throughout the game—a testament to his strategic and adaptable approach.

The offensive line merits commendation for safeguarding Prescott, but equally noteworthy is Prescott’s own excellence in self-protection through swift and precise throws. This scenario serves as a compelling illustration of the seamless collaboration among various elements on the field. And of course, having your quarterback deliver the best season of his career doesn’t hurt either.

The running game is showing up at the right time

This has been a crucial addition to the offensive strategy. Although challenges may intensify against other playoff teams, we view this as a positive indicator for the future. Dallas maintained an average of 4.5 yards per carry, and the game saw a notable reduction in unsuccessful rushing attempts on early downs. Tony Pollard’s running performance is, for once, a source of satisfaction.

Only four of his rushing attempts ended unsuccessfully, a significant improvement from what we are typically accustomed to seeing. Pollard’s standout series was the one culminating in a one-yard touchdown run. In the 71-yard drive, he contributed a nine-yard run, and the two plays leading to his score were for nine and twelve yards. Rico Dowdle also contributed 46 yards in the game. Equally noteworthy is that Prescott did not make a single rushing attempt. While upcoming defenses are expected to be more formidable, this adds an extra dimension for opposing teams to consider.

In relation to defenses…

Washington only managed to score on the short fields following a blocked field goal, which was returned deep into Dallas territory, and the deflection interception. Apart from these two series, the Cowboys’ defense effectively shut them down, permitting them to convert only two of ten third downs. While three of four fourth-down conversions were allowed, the overall performance limited the Commanders to just 180 yards. It was a display of dominance, winning the turnover battle three to one and securing four sacks.

Although this was another instance of asserting superiority over an inferior opponent, it aligns with expectations for a solid defense. The only drawback was Stephon Gilmore’s injury, but reports indicate that Monday’s MRI revealed no significant issues, and he is anticipated to be ready to play against the Green Bay Packers.

The streak ended

Brandon Aubrey didn’t just see his streak of made field goals end; he failed twice. One was a block he couldn’t have prevented, and the other was a clank off the upright. So why is this included in a list of positive signs?

Well, he returned in the waning moments of the game to nail a 50-yard attempt, demonstrating that the clear miss did not linger in his head. Aubrey has not shown any indication that he is susceptible to the kind of mental letdown that seemed to plague Brett Maher last year, but any possible pressure to maintain a streak is now gone. It is a small, even tiny thing, but he should have a completely clear head if the team needs him to make a field goal late in a playoff game. There is still no kicker I’d rather have lining up in that case.

All indications from the season finale suggest that Dallas is going to be confident and playing well in the playoffs. Against Washington, there were really no negative aspects to discuss. Add in that they will be at home for at least two playoff games (if they win the first, of course), and the signs are very promising indeed.