The Dallas Cowboys struggled to score in the red zone for much of their “Sunday Night Football” match against the Pittsburgh Steelers but managed to secure a 20-17 victory late in the game.
The Cowboys’ only red-zone touchdown came on their final offensive play, when Dak Prescott connected with Jalen Tolbert on a fourth-and-goal pass. Tolbert was able to gain separation from Steelers safety DeShon Elliott before making the catch, despite Elliott contesting the pass. This crucial touchdown allowed Dallas to take the lead with just 20 seconds remaining in regulation.
Prescott had an uneven performance, recording a few uncharacteristic mistakes, including two turnovers in the red zone in the first half that led to some sideline tension with receiver CeeDee Lamb. Despite these setbacks, the Cowboys outperformed the Steelers in total yardage, gaining 445 yards compared to Pittsburgh’s 226, largely keeping the Steelers in the game due to Prescott’s three turnovers.
The Cowboys improved to 3-2 for the season, maintaining a spot just behind the surprising Washington Commanders in the NFC East standings.
As the game concluded, the Steelers attempted to make a last-ditch effort to tie, but a pass from Justin Fields was nearly intercepted, and their subsequent lateral play failed to generate any forward movement as time expired.
Tolbert’s late touchdown capped a tense game that came down to critical plays in the final moments. The Steelers initially had taken a 17-13 lead earlier in the fourth quarter with a touchdown from Fields to Pat Freiermuth, but the Cowboys responded effectively.
Fields also faced challenges, including being briefly removed from the game for concussion evaluation after a hit by the Cowboys’ defense. Kyle Allen stepped in but was not heavily utilized before Fields returned.
Overall, the Cowboys’ versatility on offense and ability to capitalize on key moments secured their narrow victory against the Steelers.