Introduction
The Cincinnati Bengals and Dallas Cowboys faced off in an exciting game that concluded with the Bengals securing a 27-20 victory. Both teams had their strengths and weaknesses, and this match provided an opportunity to analyze the individual and team performances. Below, we will break down the key player statistics, offensive and defensive performances, and highlight the factors that contributed to the Bengals’ win.
Overview of the Game
The Bengals took control early in the match, leading 17-10 at halftime, and continued to build on their advantage through the final two quarters. Despite a strong push by the Cowboys in the second half, the Bengals’ balanced offensive attack and solid defense ultimately secured the win.
Team Stats Comparison
Cincinnati Bengals
- Record: 5-8
- Away Record: 4-3
- Final Score: 27
Dallas Cowboys
- Record: 5-8
- Home Record: 1-6
- Final Score: 20
Key Team Stats Comparison
| Category | Cincinnati Bengals | Dallas Cowboys |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Downs | 23 | 17 |
| Passing 1st Downs | 18 | 9 |
| Rushing 1st Downs | 4 | 7 |
| 3rd Down Efficiency | 4-10 | 4-12 |
| 4th Down Efficiency | 0-1 | 1-2 |
| Total Plays | 65 | 59 |
| Total Yards | 433 | 322 |
| Passing Yards | 359 | 166 |
| Rushing Yards | 74 | 156 |
| Penalties | 10-77 | 4-36 |
| Turnovers | 1 | 2 |
| Possession | 33:11 | 26:49 |
Offensive Overview
The Bengals outperformed the Cowboys in terms of total yards (433 vs. 322) and passing yards (359 vs. 166). Cincinnati’s ability to move the ball through the air was a key factor in their success. Quarterback Joe Burrow completed 33 passes on 44 attempts for 359 yards and one touchdown. He was efficient in spreading the ball across his receiving corps, but his lone interception also contributed to a turnover for the Bengals. However, Burrow’s decision-making and his connection with key players helped maintain offensive momentum.
On the other hand, Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott struggled in the passing game, completing only 16 out of 31 attempts for 166 yards and one interception. Although Prescott did manage a few big throws, his lack of accuracy and the Bengals’ pressure forced some critical mistakes, including an interception that hurt their chances.
Cincinnati Bengals’ Passing Attack
- Joe Burrow (QB): 33/44, 359 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
- Tyler Boyd (WR): 8 receptions, 94 yards
- Ja’Marr Chase (WR): 5 receptions, 56 yards
- Tee Higgins (WR): 6 receptions, 78 yards
The Bengals’ offensive line provided good protection for Burrow, allowing just two sacks for 10 yards, which contributed to their ability to execute a fast-paced, pass-heavy offense.
Dallas Cowboys’ Passing Attack
- Dak Prescott (QB): 16/31, 166 yards, 1 INT
- CeeDee Lamb (WR): 5 receptions, 53 yards
- Michael Gallup (WR): 2 receptions, 34 yards
Despite being down by a significant margin at times, Prescott’s connection with wide receiver CeeDee Lamb was a bright spot for the Cowboys. However, the Bengals’ secondary did a good job of limiting explosive plays and keeping Prescott under control.
Rushing Game
In contrast to their success in the passing game, the Bengals’ rushing attack was relatively inefficient, with only 74 yards on 19 attempts (3.9 yards per rush). Joe Mixon was the primary ball carrier, but he was largely contained by the Cowboys’ defense. Mixon managed 54 yards on 16 carries, which helped to control the clock and balance the Bengals’ offensive scheme.
The Cowboys, however, found more success on the ground, rushing for 156 yards on 25 attempts (6.2 yards per rush). Tony Pollard and Ezekiel Elliott combined for most of the rushing yards, with Pollard accounting for 69 yards on 14 carries and Elliott contributing 49 yards on 12 carries. The Cowboys’ ability to establish the run early helped them stay in the game, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Bengals’ passing attack.
Cincinnati Bengals Rushing
- Joe Mixon (RB): 16 carries, 54 yards
- Samaje Perine (RB): 3 carries, 20 yards
Dallas Cowboys Rushing
- Tony Pollard (RB): 14 carries, 69 yards
- Ezekiel Elliott (RB): 12 carries, 49 yards
Special Teams and Turnovers
The Bengals’ special teams contributed solidly, with punter Kevin Huber providing excellent field position, especially in the first half. Kicker Evan McPherson made both of his field goal attempts, including one from 47 yards.
In terms of turnovers, both teams were prone to mistakes. The Bengals lost the ball once on an interception, but their defense was able to capitalize on the Cowboys’ two turnovers—one interception and one fumble. The Cowboys’ inability to protect the ball compounded their offensive struggles and gave the Bengals additional opportunities.
Turnovers
- Cincinnati Bengals: 1 turnover (1 INT)
- Dallas Cowboys: 2 turnovers (1 INT, 1 fumble)
Defensive Standouts
The Bengals’ defense was the unsung hero of the game, especially with their ability to pressure Prescott and limit big plays. The defensive line accounted for three sacks, and linebacker Logan Wilson was instrumental in containing the Cowboys’ running game and covering short-yardage passes.
Cincinnati Bengals Defense
- Logan Wilson (LB): 10 tackles, 1 sack
- Trey Hendrickson (DE): 2 tackles, 1 sack
- Chidobe Awuzie (CB): 2 tackles, 1 interception
The Cowboys’ defense, while struggling to contain the Bengals’ offense, did show some resilience. They registered three sacks on Burrow, which forced him into a few hurried throws. However, the secondary was unable to contain the Bengals’ receivers in crucial moments.
Dallas Cowboys Defense
- Micah Parsons (LB): 8 tackles, 1 sack
- Trevon Diggs (CB): 4 tackles, 1 interception
- DeMarcus Lawrence (DE): 3 tackles, 1 sack
Red Zone and Penalties
Both teams had similar efficiency in the red zone, as both teams converted 2 out of 4 opportunities. However, the Cowboys struggled with penalties, committing 4 penalties for 36 yards, which was far better than the Bengals’ 10 penalties for 77 yards. These penalties hindered the Cowboys’ ability to sustain drives, especially in crucial moments when they needed to capitalize on possession.
Red Zone Efficiency
- Cincinnati Bengals: 2/4
- Dallas Cowboys: 2/4
Key Takeaways
Bengals’ Passing Attack: The Bengals dominated through the air with Joe Burrow’s efficient passing game, which helped them overcome their struggles on the ground.
Cowboys’ Rushing Success: The Cowboys had success rushing the ball, but Dak Prescott’s inability to make accurate throws and his interception hurt the team’s chances.
Turnovers and Mistakes: The Bengals capitalized on the Cowboys’ two turnovers, while their own single turnover was not as costly.
Defensive Strength: The Bengals’ defense played a solid game, with key sacks and interceptions helping to limit the Cowboys’ scoring opportunities.
Conclusion
This matchup between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Dallas Cowboys highlighted both teams’ strengths and weaknesses. The Bengals’ passing attack, led by Joe Burrow, was the difference-maker, while the Cowboys’ inability to sustain drives, coupled with turnovers, ultimately cost them the game. The Bengals’ defensive play, combined with a solid special teams effort, helped them seal the victory. For the Cowboys, their defense showed potential, but they need better play from Dak Prescott and consistency across all phases of the game to compete in future matchups.
FAQS
Who led the Bengals in passing yards against the Cowboys?
Joe Burrow led with 359 passing yards.
Which team had more rushing yards in the game?
The Cowboys had 156 rushing yards compared to the Bengals’ 74.
How many turnovers did the Cowboys commit?
The Cowboys committed 2 turnovers in the match.
Who had the most tackles for the Bengals?
Logan Wilson had 10 tackles in the game.
Which team had better red zone efficiency?
Both teams converted 2 out of 4 red zone opportunities.
