Prowess in the Clutch: Cowboys elite 3rd-down efficiency proves decisive

The Dallas Cowboys are an top offensive team but where they really stand out as elite is in their in their efficiency on third downs. Here’s how it played out vs Eagles. | From @ReidDHanson

It’s no secret. High-stakes NFL games are often won on the critical downs. While early downs typically produce the biggest gains in yardage, third and fourth downs consistently prove to be the most pivotal in increasing win probability and expected points.

For the Dallas Cowboys, those critical downs have become the cornerstone of their offense. Third downs specifically, have separated Dallas from the rest of the pack, and against the Philadelphia Eagles on Christmas Eve, third downs proved to be the deciding factor.