Don't forget these plays: Luepke's third-down catch

Don't forget these plays: Luepke's third-down catch

           Don't forget these plays: Luepke's third-down catch

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – The Cowboys showcased some impressive plays, including a couple of spectacular touchdown catches and another 60-yard field goal from Brandon Aubrey, leading them to a hard-fought 20-15 win over the Giants. As always, though, there were some pivotal moments that could have swung the game the other way.


Giants' Facemask on Bellinger – Early in the game, the Giants were in a strong position after a big pass to Malik Nabers on their first drive. However, a costly facemask penalty on Daniel Bellinger pushed them back to second-and-18. The Giants could only manage a couple of completions, resulting in a field goal – one of five they would kick all night. This play set the tone for the Giants' inability to find the end zone.


Luepke’s Crucial Third-Down Catch– Trailing 3-0 on their second offensive drive, the Cowboys were in danger of losing momentum to the Giants. Dak Prescott found Hunter Luepke for an 11-yard completion on third down, keeping the drive alive. This key conversion eventually led to a screen pass touchdown to Rico Dowdle, giving Dallas a 7-3 lead.


Overshown’s Goal-Line Tackle– Linebacker DeMarvion Overshown was everywhere, making crucial plays on both defense and special teams. One of his biggest came on third-and-goal from the 8-yard line, where he tackled Wan'Dale Robinson at the 3. This stop prevented the Giants from going for a touchdown and forced them to settle for another field goal, keeping the Cowboys ahead, 14-12.


Back-to-Back Tackles for Loss – The Cowboys' defense maintained their bend-but-don't-break approach early in the fourth quarter. With the Giants threatening at the Dallas 20, Amani Oruwariye made consecutive stops, first with a tackle for loss, followed by a key stop on Devin Singletary. The Giants had to settle for yet another field goal, bringing the score to 17-15.


Elliott’s Late Game Heroics– Ezekiel Elliott, playing a secondary role throughout the night, made a crucial play late in the game. With Dallas taking over on downs at the Giants' 45-yard line and just over three minutes remaining, Elliott gained seven yards on first down, despite New York’s defense being set to stop the run. This gain forced the Giants to use a timeout and helped the Cowboys run down the clock. By the time New York got the ball back after a missed field goal, there were only 28 seconds left.


These small but significant plays helped Dallas secure a close win over their division rival.