Cowboys Hold Off Commanders for 31-24 Victory in Week 12

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Dallas Cowboys edged out the Washington Commanders 31-24 in a hard-fought divisional matchup, with Ezekiel Elliott powering the offense and DeMarvion Overshown making a crucial defensive play early on. Overshown’s 41-yard interception return for a touchdown set the tone in the first quarter, but Washington answered back in the second with touchdowns from Brian Robinson Jr. and quarterback Jayden Daniels.

“We knew coming in this was going to be a dogfight,” said Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott, who rushed for 122 yards and two touchdowns. “They’re a tough team, and we had to keep grinding all game long to get this win.”

In the second half, Dallas pulled away with two Elliott touchdowns, but the Commanders stayed in the game thanks to a 71-yard touchdown pass from Jayden Daniels to Olamide Zaccheaus. Daniels finished with 240 yards passing, one touchdown, and a rushing score of his own.

“It’s frustrating when you feel like you’re right there,” Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels said postgame. “We had chances, and I take responsibility for some missed opportunities. We’ve just got to finish better.”

Dallas’ defense made the key stops in the final minutes to seal the win. “That interception was huge,” Cowboys linebacker DeMarvion Overshown said. “We talked all week about creating turnovers, and we did just that. It was a team effort.”

Key Stats

Dallas finished the game with 339 total yards, including 144 rushing yards led by Ezekiel Elliott’s 122 yards and two touchdowns. Dak Prescott threw for 195 yards, connecting with Luke Schoonmaker for an 11-yard touchdown. The Cowboys’ defense was pivotal, forcing a key interception that led to points. Washington outgained Dallas slightly with 347 total yards, but their third-down struggles (4-for-10) were costly. Jayden Daniels threw for 240 yards and a touchdown, adding another on the ground, while Olamide Zaccheaus had a 71-yard receiving score.

Up Next

The Cowboys will host the New York Giants in Week 13, while the Commanders look to bounce back as they welcome the Tennessee Titans.