‘Dowdle Drive!’ Cowboys Take Late Lead

The Dallas Cowboys regained control of the Sunday night game early in the fourth quarter, taking a 13-10 lead over the Pittsburgh Steelers after a crucial 22-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Dak Prescott to running back Rico Dowdle.

The play capped off an impressive 16-play, 90-yard drive, marking the longest sustained possession by the Cowboys in the game. Despite multiple setbacks, including penalties and a strong Steelers defense, Dallas showed resilience in pushing down the field.

The drive began late in the third quarter at the Cowboys’ own 10-yard line, where Rico Dowdle quickly established himself as a key offensive contributor. Dowdle's 13-yard rush, paired with timely completions by Prescott, helped the Cowboys move the ball into Steelers territory. However, the Cowboys faced significant challenges along the way, including two false start penalties that forced a 1st-and-20 situation. Despite these setbacks, Prescott remained composed, connecting with wide receiver Jalen Tolbert for a 7-yard gain on 3rd-and-5, keeping the drive alive.

Momentum shifted further in Dallas’ favor when a defensive holding penalty on the Steelers pushed the Cowboys closer to scoring range. Prescott capitalized on the opportunity by delivering a short pass to Dowdle, who evaded defenders and took the ball 22 yards into the end zone, giving the Cowboys a 13-10 lead with 13:51 remaining in the fourth quarter.

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With the Cowboys now leading, the defense will need to step up and protect the lead as the game enters its final minutes. The touchdown not only reenergizes the team but also puts pressure back on the Steelers to respond.