Dak Prescott connected with Jalen Tolbert in the end zone, securing a critical touchdown that gave the Dallas Cowboys a 20-17 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers with just 20 seconds remaining in the game. The match began with a delay due to lightning at Acrisure Stadium, but Prescott urged his teammates to make it a memorable game.
“This is one of those games I don’t care how long you play, you’ll never forget it,” Prescott stated while preparing during the delay. The win improved the Cowboys’ record to 3-2, allowing them to stay competitive in the NFC East behind the Washington Commanders’ 4-1 record. This victory marked the third road win for the Cowboys this season, reflecting their best away start since Prescott’s rookie year in 2016.
The win also represented a personal milestone for head coach Mike McCarthy, who achieved his first regular-season victory against the Steelers, the team he grew up supporting. Although McCarthy had previously defeated the Steelers in Super Bowl XLV as the Green Bay Packers coach, he had lost his four regular-season games against them.
“It feels great,” McCarthy said after the game, celebrating with family and friends. He emphasized that the victory was about the players: “These guys poured it out there. Both sides.”
Following the game, the players presented McCarthy with the game ball, marking the first time he received such an honor in his coaching career. Prescott expressed his admiration for McCarthy, highlighting his deep-rooted pride in Pittsburgh and reflecting on their special moments together over the weekend.
Despite the win, it was not without challenges for the Cowboys. Prescott experienced a difficult night, turning the ball over three times, including two interceptions and a fumble, with some mistakes occurring in the red zone that cost the team points. The Cowboys also had a field goal attempt blocked and were penalized 11 times for a total of 87 yards.
However, with less than five minutes left, Prescott orchestrated what became his 23rd game-winning drive in the fourth quarter or overtime. He completed 5 of 7 passes for 46 yards during this drive, along with recovering his own fumble at the 4-yard line. After a Steelers timeout, McCarthy made adjustments to ensure Prescott had better protection.
Tolbert, starting in place of the injured Brandin Cooks, proved crucial in the final seconds, managing to catch the touchdown pass despite tight coverage.
“I love being in that situation,” Prescott said. “You’re upset about the turnovers, but when you’re down 4 with a chance to score and plenty of time left, that’s all I can ask for.”
The Cowboys were already without key players due to injuries, including Cooks, Micah Parsons, and DeMarcus Lawrence. They also faced obstacles during the game, losing their top draft picks, left tackle Tyler Guyton and defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, to knee injuries. McCarthy noted the resilience of the team, stating, “The resiliency of our football team was on display tonight.”