Cowboys Edge Past Commanders in Christmas Day Thriller

26 December 2025 Sports

NFC East Rivals Clash on Christmas Day

The Dallas Cowboys and Washington Commanders delivered an entertaining Christmas Day spectacle on 25 December 2024, despite both teams being eliminated from playoff contention. Dak Prescott threw for 307 yards and two touchdowns, and the Dallas Cowboys blew most of an 18-point lead before squeezing past the Washington Commanders 30-23. The match showcased the enduring intensity of one of the NFL’s most storied rivalries, even in a season where neither team reached the postseason.

Cowboys Dominate Early Before Commanders Rally

With both teams eliminated from the playoffs and the Commanders starting third-string quarterback Josh Johnson, the Cowboys threatened to make it a laugher with three touchdowns on their first three drives for a 21-3 lead. Prescott’s aggressive play-calling and sharp passing appeared to put Dallas in control early. However, the Commanders rallied to get within one possession in the fourth quarter with a 17-6 run that cut the Dallas lead to 27-20.

The Cowboys’ aggressive approach on fourth down proved decisive. They iced the game with their sixth fourth-down conversion on their sixth try to run out the clock on the win. Prescott finished the day completing 19-of-37 passes for 307 yards with 2 touchdowns and no turnovers, demonstrating why he remains one of the league’s premier quarterbacks despite Dallas’s disappointing season.

Significance for Both Teams Moving Forward

The victory holds particular significance for Dallas as they improved their season record whilst facing uncertainty about their future direction. Dak Prescott is third in the NFL in passing touchdowns (28) and second in the league in passing yards (4,175) while leading the NFL’s No. 5 scoring offense (28.3 points per game), highlighting his individual excellence despite the team’s struggles.

For Washington, the loss extends their disappointing end to what began as a promising season. The Commanders will close the season against the NFC East champion Philadelphia Eagles and look to send their rivals into the postseason with a loss, whilst the Cowboys will visit the New York Giants in Week 18. Though both teams are playing for pride, this Christmas Day encounter reinforced that the Cowboys-Commanders rivalry retains its competitive edge regardless of playoff implications.