CAR 14, DAL 13: Cowboys Keeping it Close vs Undefeated Panthers at Halftime

The Dallas Cowboys may be facing their toughest test so far in 2021 against the undefeated Panthers. It’s a close one at halftime, but Carolina’s up at the break 14-13.

Ezekiel Elliott has 49 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries to lead the offense. Dak Prescott’s had a tough day passing, only 103 yards and 8/15 completions, but has added a touchdown throw to Blake Jarwin.

On defense, Randy Gregory already has two sacks and Tarell Basham added another just before halftime. But while he’s been mostly stymied through the air, Panthers QB Sam Darnold has hurt Dallas with his feet on two touchdowns and another big conversion.

It would probably be a tied game if not for a Carolina penalty on Dallas’ second extra-point attempt. That gave the Cowboys a chance at 2-point conversion close to the goal line, but the receiver was called short after review.

The calls haven’t all gone against Dallas today. A clear fumble by Dalton Schultz, recovered by Carolina, was ruled dead on a bad forward-progress ruling.

This one’s been close and hard-hitting for 30 minutes and looks to be more of the same in the second half. Hopefully the Cowboys cane make the necessary tweaks to flip the lead and hand Carolina their first loss.