The Dallas Cowboys lead the Washington Commanders 20-10 at halftime of their Week 12 Thanksgiving Day showdown.
Washington was moving the ball on its first possession and faced a fourth-and-2 in Dallas territory, but head coach Ron Rivera opted for the punt instead of going for it.
Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott immediately targeted Washington cornerback Benjamin St-Juste, but fortunately for the Commanders, Prescott missed two deep balls, and Dallas punted.
After another Commanders’ punt, Prescott led an impressive drive that he capped off with a touchdown pass to running back Rico Dowdle.
Washington responded with a field goal. Prescott then found wide receiver Brandin Cooks on a 31-yard touchdown, increasing the Cowboys lead to 14-3.
Commanders QB Sam Howell answered with several big-time throws, finishing the drive with a tough one-yard touchdown run. Unfortunately, Washington left too much time on the clock, and Prescott quickly marched the Cowboys back down the field. Running back Tony Pollard scored from seven yards out to make it a 20-10 game.
Howell completed 16 of 23 passes for 170 yards. Brian Robinson Jr. carried the ball 10 times for 40 yards and also had a 19-yard reception. Curtis Samuel led Washington with five receptions for 65 yards.
Washington’s defense allowed 272 total yards in the first half and came nowhere close to putting pressure on Prescott.
Dallas will receive the second-half kickoff.