Coach Brian Schottenheimer called the 33‑30 overtime defeat a “tale of two halves,” and the Cowboys’ own Tape Talk film review breaks down exactly how the game unraveled.
Key points
- Dallas’ early defensive performance was strong, but a second‑half defensive lapse allowed Arizona to score four straight touchdowns.
- The quarterback change to Gardner Minshew and Tyler Allgeier’s big runs were catalysts for the Cardinals’ comeback.
- A missed extra point after Michael Wilson’s touchdown kept the game alive, ultimately leading to an overtime loss.
In the opening half, Dallas’ defense delivered what the team described as its best two‑quarter stretch of the season, forcing two turnovers and limiting Arizona to a field‑goal‑only effort while the offense posted 14 points to build an 11‑point lead.
The second half saw a dramatic swing after Gardner Minshew replaced Jacoby Brissett at quarterback and running back Tyler Allgeier broke free for two runs of more than 50 yards, after which the Cardinals responded with four consecutive touchdown drives to erase the deficit and force overtime.
First‑half defensive dominance
A pivotal moment came with 1:05 left in regulation when the Cardinals, starting from their own 20‑yard line, marched 67 yards in seven plays to the Cowboys’ 13‑yard line; Michael Wilson then caught a pass in the seam for a touchdown, and a missed extra point by Chad Ryland left the game tied.
Overtime began with Dallas attempting a duo run that was stopped at the line of scrimmage, as Arizona’s defensive ends set the edges and interior linebackers filled the gaps, limiting the Cowboys to just two yards on the play.
Second‑half momentum shift
Coach Schottenheimer labeled the late‑game coverage error on Wilson a “mental error” by the secondary, while also crediting the Cardinals’ defensive line for maintaining pad level and quickly plugging gaps that stifled Dallas’ ground game, which fell to 93 yards on 39 carries.
Reader questions
Why did the Cowboys’ defense struggle in the second half?
According to the Tape Talk review, the Cardinals’ defensive line maintained good pad level and quickly filled gaps, limiting Dallas to just 93 rushing yards and allowing four consecutive touchdown drives.
What was the significance of Michael Wilson’s touchdown?
Wilson’s catch on a motion play gave Arizona the lead with ten seconds left, and the subsequent missed extra point forced the game into overtime.
How did the quarterback change affect the game?
Gardner Minshew replaced Jacoby Brissett early in the third quarter, and within two plays the Cardinals began a scoring run that shifted momentum in their favor.
Source: dallascowboys.com