Cowboys’ running attack contributes to win over Panthers 33-10

Dallas Cowboys’ running back Tony Pollard has not scored a touchdown since Week 1 against the New York Giants.  It has been a frustrating season thus far for Pollard by averaging 4.0 yards per carry and hadn’t reached the end zone in the last eight games.  For Dallas, a successful rushing game is essential for the offense to move the ball, and to relieve some of the pressure from quarterback Dak Prescott.  Sunday afternoon proved to create a foundation on the way to get back on track.  Tony Pollard efficiently had 61 yards on 12 carries with 1 rushing touchdown.  Running back Rico Dowdle added 8 carries for 23 yards as well. 

Ultimately, the rushing attack was crucial for Dallas to hold possession of the football for 31:21 of the game.  The defense held the Panthers to 187 total yards and 5 for 15 on 3rd downs.  In addition to the time of possession being low for Carolina, the Cowboys’ defense caused two turnovers (fumble lost and interception thrown).  Dak Prescott did not turn the football over, and completed 25 of 38 passes for 189 yards and two touchdowns. 

His ability to spread the offense out, completing to a total of 9 wide receivers/tight ends for a total of 204 yards and 2 touchdowns helped Dallas win their 7th game of the year and improve their record 7-3 with a final score of 33 to 10.  Carolina continues to struggle offensively and extends their losing streak to 3 in a row and a league low 1-9 record.  Carolina travels to Tennessee to face a struggling Titans team next week. 

The Dallas Cowboys keep pace with the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC East and currently hold the first wildcard in the NFC if the season were to end this weekend.  Dallas now hosts the Washington Commanders for the annual Thanksgiving game this coming week, looking to capture their 8th win of the season.