Dallas Cowboys edge out Commanders in gritty showdown but injury woes hit stars Williams and Revel Jr
The Dallas Cowboys secured a hard-fought 30-23 victory over the Washington Commanders on Christmas Day, a win that felt tighter than the scoreline suggested. Holding a commanding 24-10 lead at halftime, the Cowboys’ offense stumbled in the second half, managing only six points. Meanwhile, the defense allowed a 72-yard touchdown run by Jacory Croskey-Merritt, which reignited the Commanders’ hopes.
Ultimately, it was Brandon Aubrey’s late field goal that sealed the deal, allowing Dak Prescott to run down the clock and end a three-game losing streak for Dallas.
Injury Concerns for Key Players
Despite the triumph, the game was marred by injuries to two crucial players. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer provided updates on running back Javonte Williams and cornerback Shavon Revel Jr., both of whom left the game due to injuries.
Williams exited in the first half with a shoulder injury after recording 54 rushing yards and a touchdown on 13 carries. This injury exacerbated a lingering issue he had been dealing with for several weeks. Schottenheimer noted, “Revel’s got concussion protocol and then Javonte, shoulder, stinger, same thing that he had.”
Revel Jr. suffered his injury late in the fourth quarter after a solid performance in which he tied for the team lead with six tackles and also logged a pass deflection. His status now entering concussion protocol adds to the team’s defensive woes, as the rookie corner had only recently returned from an ACL injury.
Malik Davis Steps Up
With Williams’ status uncertain for the regular season finale, Dallas may consider resting him. Malik Davis stepped up admirably in the game, rushing for a career-high 103 yards on 20 carries. This performance underscores the depth of the Cowboys’ backfield, especially as they navigate injury challenges.
A Gritty Showdown
Schottenheimer likened the Cowboys’ clash with the Commanders to a heavyweight boxing match, emphasizing the physicality displayed by both teams, especially with a short week leading into the game. “We knew we had to play a physical game,” he said. “When you guys go in there, you’ll see a few of the guys look like they were literally just in a heavyweight title fight. Malik Davis’ arms are all beat up and bloody, his eyes swollen. We were running out of bodies there at the end on offense.”
The Cowboys executed a staggering 80 plays with a time of possession nearing 38 minutes, showcasing their determination and resilience throughout the contest.
Looking Ahead
Dallas will enjoy some extra rest before facing the New York Giants in their final game of the season, which has been flexed for potential scheduling on January 3 or January 4. The stakes remain high as the Cowboys aim to finish the season strong amidst the challenges posed by injuries and the looming playoff picture.
