Cowboys Honor Kneeland with Commanding Victory over Raiders
The Dallas Cowboys took the field on Monday night with the promise of honoring the memory of their teammate Marshawn Kneeland, and they delivered. They achieved a convincing 33-16 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. Quarterback Dak Prescott led the offense with four touchdown passes, distributed to four different receivers: George Pickens, CeeDee Lamb, Jake Ferguson, and Ryan Flournoy. The defense, which featured the additions of Quinnen Williams and Logan Wilson, and the return of DeMarvion Overshown, held the Raiders without scoring touchdowns until the final quarter. By then, the offense had already scored on five consecutive possessions, building a 31-9 lead. The team honored Kneeland by wearing a blue sticker with the number 94 on their helmets and jerseys with his image during warm-ups. Kneeland’s jersey was also present on the Cowboys’ bench during the game.A victory doesn’t erase the pain of losing a teammate, but for one night, the Cowboys could smile again.
Alofoke Deportes
Game Analysis: Cowboys vs. Raiders
Dallas Cowboys
The Quarterback’s Performance: Dak Prescott continues to solidify his place in Cowboys history. Already the team leader in completed passes and completion percentage, he now has the most games with at least three touchdown passes in franchise history. His 37-yard pass to Pickens in the second quarter was the 41st of his career. Since Prescott entered the league in 2016, only Patrick Mahomes (46) has more games with three touchdowns.Trend to Watch: Quinnen Williams had an outstanding performance in his first game with the Cowboys, recording 1.5 sacks, four quarterback hits, and a tackle for a loss of yards in the first four series. The team hopes that Williams’ adaptation to the team’s scheme will translate into more sacks and pressure on the quarterback.Key Statistic: Lamb and Pickens, although they didn’t start the game, were decisive. They combined for nine receptions, 156 yards, and two touchdowns in the first half, their second-highest combined yardage in a first half this season.Next Game: vs. Philadelphia Eagles (November 23rd).
Las Vegas Raiders
Offensive Line Disadvantages: Kolton Miller and Jackson Powers-Johnson’s injuries left the Raiders at a disadvantage in the trenches, affecting their performance. The backup line struggled to give quarterback Geno Smith time.The Marshal Under Pressure: Smith was sacked four times by Dallas and suffered pressure on 41% of his throws in the first half. The lack of protection also hampered the Raiders’ running game, which finished with just 27 yards on the ground.Surprising Performance: Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty had little involvement in the running game, with only two carries in the first half.Key Statistic: The Raiders used “play-action” plays on 40.6% of Smith’s throws in the first half, resulting in 7 of 12 passes for 124 yards and one interception.
Trend to Watch: Kyu Blu Kelly struggled in coverage, allowing six receptions for 87 yards and a touchdown. With the team holding a 2-8 record, it is expected that the Raiders may give Darien Porter more opportunity.Next Game: vs. Cleveland Browns (November 23rd).
