Cowboys Show Aggression Early, Command First Half Against Commanders
The Dallas Cowboys came out swinging in their Christmas Day matchup, setting the tone early with a fourth-down conversion on their opening possession. That aggressive approach didn’t just keep the drive alive-it paid off with points, as Dak Prescott capped it off by finding Jake Ferguson for a touchdown. It was a statement start for a team looking to control the game from the jump.
But Washington wasn’t about to roll over, even with Josh Johnson making his first start since 2021. Deebo Samuel gave the Commanders a much-needed spark, turning a short pass into a highlight-reel catch and run that ended with Donovan Wilson’s helmet flying off. It was a physical reminder that Samuel can change a game in an instant.
Still, the Cowboys defense stood tall. Jadeveon Clowney made his presence felt with a third-down sack that forced Washington to settle for a field goal.
That stop helped preserve Dallas’ early lead, and by the time the first quarter ended, the Cowboys were once again on the move-thanks to yet another fourth-down conversion. Mike McCarthy and offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer were clearly in attack mode, and the players were executing with confidence.
Second Quarter: More Fourth-Down Success, More Points
The second quarter opened much like the first ended-with the Cowboys going for it on fourth and short and converting. That aggressive mindset continued to fuel the offense, and this time it was Javonte Williams who finished the job, punching it in for another Dallas touchdown.
During the next Cowboys drive, franchise legend Emmitt Smith joined the broadcast and offered some interesting insight. He praised Schottenheimer for instilling a new culture in Dallas-a nod to the team’s shift in mentality, especially on offense. Smith also lightened the mood with some holiday chatter, but his football analysis was spot on: this Cowboys team is playing with a different edge.
Washington responded with another dose of Deebo Samuel, who continued to be their most dynamic weapon. But the Cowboys defense held firm again, forcing the Commanders’ first punt of the day. That punt was a beauty, pinning Dallas back to their own 3-yard line.
No problem.
Five plays later, the Cowboys were celebrating in the end zone again. Dak Prescott took advantage of a free play after an offsides penalty and launched a deep ball to KaVontae Turpin, who hauled it in for a big-time touchdown. It was a textbook example of Prescott’s awareness and Turpin’s speed combining for a game-breaking moment.
Washington’s next drive hit a sour note when former Cowboys center Tyler Biadasz went down with an injury. It was an unfortunate moment for a player who’s been a steady presence in the trenches-hopefully nothing serious.
The Commanders did manage to keep their drive alive with a pass interference call deep in the red zone. That extra chance proved costly for Dallas, as Bill Croskey-Merritt powered his way in for Washington’s first touchdown of the game.
With time winding down in the first half, the Cowboys orchestrated a clock-chewing drive that showcased their ability to manage tempo. They worked their way into field goal range, but a third-down sack of Prescott halted the drive. No problem again-Brandon Aubrey stepped up and drilled a 42-yard field goal to close the half on a high note.
Halftime Takeaway
Through two quarters, the Cowboys looked like a team in control-aggressive on offense, opportunistic on defense, and composed in key moments. Prescott was sharp, the play-calling was bold, and the execution backed it up. Meanwhile, Washington showed flashes, especially through Deebo Samuel, but they were playing catch-up from the opening snap.
Dallas went into the locker room with momentum and a lead, and with the way they were converting on fourth down and hitting on explosive plays, it was clear they weren’t just trying to win-they were trying to make a statement.