Dak Prescott's Last-Second Touchdown Lifts Cowboys to Thrilling 20-17 Victory Over Steelers in Pittsburgh

As lightning flashed above Acrisure Stadium, delaying the start of Sunday night's matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers, Dak Prescott delivered a powerful message to his teammates: "We're not going to forget this one regardless." During the wait, Prescott kept himself busy, eating a protein waffle and doing some stretches. Reflecting on the night, he said, "With the delays, everything that happened, it's one of those games you'll never forget. I just kept saying, 'Let's make it one to remember,' and I think we did that."

Prescott indeed made it memorable, throwing a game-winning 4-yard touchdown pass to Jalen Tolbert with just 20 seconds left, sealing a 20-17 victory. The win pushed the Cowboys to 3-2 on the season, keeping them close behind the NFC East-leading Washington Commanders (4-1). It also marked the Cowboys’ third road win this year—their best away-game start since Prescott's rookie season in 2016. For head coach Mike McCarthy, the victory was particularly special as it was his first regular-season win against his hometown Steelers, a team he had coached against four times without a win until now.

"It feels great," McCarthy said, walking out of the stadium with his parents. "But at the end of the day, this is about the players. This game is for them. These guys poured everything they had out there." McCarthy was later presented with the game ball by his players, a gesture that meant a lot to the coach.

Prescott, who had a personal connection with McCarthy, was thrilled to be part of the win. "I love him. Great head coach," Prescott said. "He's very proud to be from Pittsburgh, so I had to go on a little tour the night before and see some of his old stomping grounds."

Despite the victory, the game was far from perfect for the Cowboys. Prescott turned the ball over three times, including two red-zone interceptions and a fumble. The team also had a blocked field goal attempt and accumulated 11 penalties for 87 yards. Still, Prescott managed to lead his 23rd career game-winning drive in the fourth quarter or overtime.

McCarthy praised Prescott’s poise, saying, "Composure is a huge strength of his. He doesn't blink, doesn't dwell on mistakes." On the final drive, Prescott completed 5 of 7 passes for 46 yards and recovered a crucial fumble at the 4-yard line. After a Steelers timeout with 26 seconds left, McCarthy made adjustments to ensure Prescott had extra protection. Tolbert, filling in for the injured Brandin Cooks, managed to get open and catch the decisive touchdown pass.

"I love being in that situation," Prescott said. "You're mad about the turnovers, but when I realize I have the ball, down 4 with enough time, that's all I can ask for."

The Cowboys overcame several injuries during the game, including losing key players like defensive ends Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence, as well as left tackle Tyler Guyton. The team had to make quick adjustments, with guard Tyler Smith moving to tackle and Brock Hoffman, Cooper Beebe, and T.J. Bass forming the interior offensive line.

"I think the resiliency of our team was on display tonight," McCarthy said, summarizing the hard-fought win.