The Cowboys’ offense has been pedestrian in the second half of the season and slow starts have become normal for a prolific offense in the first half of the season. On the first drive, penalties and missed blocks stalled a promising start for the offense.
Matching the script of recent weeks, Dan Quinn’s defense stepped up and forced a turnover. This time, it was a big hit from defensive end Demarcus Lawrence that led to a fly ball for cornerback Jourdan Lewis.
.@TankLawrence forces the INT! #DallasCowboys
📺: #DALvsNYG on FOX
📱: NFL app pic.twitter.com/aGo2nVQ7VK— NFL (@NFL) December 19, 2021
Following the interception return, the Dallas offense took over deep in New York territory. Running back Ezekiel Elliott, who is getting close to healthy with nagging injuries, broke through on the second play of the drive and carried defenders into the endzone for a 13-yard touchdown.
Zeke finds the end zone! @EzekielElliott #DallasCowboys
📺: #DALvsNYG on FOX
📱: NFL app pic.twitter.com/Gwu0wvWDds— NFL (@NFL) December 19, 2021
Considering the sluggish starts on offense, short fields might be the catalyst for quarterback Dak Prescott and the offense to start firing on all cylinders. Greg Zuerlein missed the extra point but the Cowboys hold a 6-0 lead after Elliott’s ninth rushing touchdown of the season.