Dallas Cowboys edge Washington in Christmas thriller as Clowney shines, Revel struggles
The Dallas Cowboys faced off against the Washington Commanders in a highly anticipated Christmas Day showdown, streaming live on Netflix. The Cowboys surged to an early 21-3 lead, showcasing their offensive prowess. However, the Commanders displayed resilience, clawing their way back into contention before ultimately falling short. Dallas sealed the game with a narrow 30-23 victory, improving their record to 7-8-1. While playoff aspirations are out of reach, this win offers a glimmer of hope as they look to finish the season on a high note.
Key Performers in the Christmas Clash
Before turning attention to their final game of the season, it’s worth examining the standout performers and those who struggled during this gripping encounter.
Stud: Jadeveon Clowney, EDGE
Jadeveon Clowney was a force to be reckoned with on the field. The Cowboys’ defensive end showcased determination and grit, particularly during a pivotal moment when he chased down a 41-yard screen pass intended for Deebo Samuel. Although Clowney didn’t make the tackle, his relentless pursuit highlighted an energy that had been lacking in the Cowboys’ defense throughout the season.
A few plays later, Clowney made his impact felt, recording a crucial sack on quarterback Josh Johnson, resulting in an eight-yard loss on third down. This timely play thwarted a promising Commanders drive, forcing them to settle for a field goal instead of a touchdown—a significant win for the Dallas defense.
Dud: Shavon Revel Jr., CB
On the flip side, cornerback Shavon Revel Jr.’s performance left much to be desired. The Cowboys were eager to draft Revel from East Carolina in the third round, but his return from an ACL injury has not lived up to expectations. Week 17 proved to be particularly challenging for him, as he struggled in coverage and missed several key tackles.
Revel’s difficulties did not go unnoticed; analysts Ed Werder and Brian Baldinger engaged in a conversation on social media regarding his performance, with Baldinger expressing frustration over the state of the cornerback room. Revel’s struggles were emblematic of broader defensive issues that the team will need to address moving forward.
As the season winds down, the Cowboys find themselves in a position where they must reflect on individual performances and team dynamics, striving to end the year on a positive note.
