The Dallas Cowboys are headed to the second round of the 2018 playoffs. They leaned on Ezekiel Elliott, solid defense, and efficient play from Dak Prescott to get the rare 24-22 playoff victory over the Seattle Seahawks.
The Seahawks were up 14-10 to start the 4th Quarter, but the Cowboys got rushing touchdowns from each of their young offensive stars. The defense tightened, holding Seattle to no scores until their desperate comeback attempt to close the game.
Elliott finished the day with 137 rushing yards and 32 receiving. Prescott threw for 226 yards and a passing touchdown to Michael Gallup. He also ran for 29 yards.
The teams traded blows throughout the contest, with the lead changing four times. In the end, it was Dallas who made those few crucial plays to pull off the win.
The Cowboys must now wait for the winner of the Eagles-Bears game tomorrow to know their next playoff opponent. A Chicago win sends Dallas to New Orleans, but a Philly upset would send the Cowboys to Los Angeles.
But for now, it's a celebration!
Other Notes
- Tavon Austin nearly had the biggest special teams performance in recent Cowboys history. He not only had a 51-yard punt return in the 4th Quarter, but another long return touchdown was called back on a questionable penalty.
- Dallas' defense was able to stifle Russell Wilson most of the game. They never forced a turnover, but the Seahawks were held in check even when given favorable field position at times.
- As you've come to expect, Leighton Vander Esch and Jaylon Smith led the team in tackles.
- Also helping Dallas was an injury to Seattle kicker Sebastian Janikowski, who came up lame following an attempt at a long field goal before halftime. The biggest impact was on the game's last big play, with Seattle unable to execute an onside kick and sealing the win for the Cowboys.
- Amari Cooper led all Cowboys receivers with 107 yards on seven catches.
- The win improves Jason Garrett's playoff record to 3-6. It is the first postseason victory for Prescott, Elliott, and many of Dallas' young stars.
