The Detroit Lions vs Dallas Cowboys match player stats from their Week 17 NFL clash delivered one of the most dramatic and talked-about games of the 2023 season. Played at AT&T Stadium, this matchup had major playoff implications and featured elite performances from both teams’ star players. From Dak Prescott’s command of the Cowboys’ offence to Jared Goff’s resilience under pressure, the game provided a deep pool of statistics worth analysing.
This article offers a detailed breakdown of the Detroit Lions vs Dallas Cowboys match player stats, covering passing, rushing, receiving, defence, and special teams. It also explores how individual performances influenced the outcome and what the numbers reveal about both franchises moving forward.
Match Overview: Lions vs Cowboys Week 17
The Detroit Lions entered the contest fighting for NFC seeding, while the Dallas Cowboys were protecting their dominant home record. The game ended in a narrow Cowboys victory, though controversy surrounded the final moments. Still, the Detroit Lions vs Dallas Cowboys match player stats clearly show how evenly matched the teams were.
Both offences exceeded expectations, combining for over 800 total yards. Defensively, each side had critical stops and turnovers that kept the scoreline tight until the final seconds.
Detroit Lions Passing Stats Breakdown
Jared Goff once again proved his value as the Lions’ franchise quarterback. Despite playing in a hostile environment, Goff delivered a composed and efficient performance.
Jared Goff – Quarterback Performance
- Completions/Attempts: 19/34
- Passing Yards: 271
- Touchdowns: 1
- Interceptions: 0
- Passer Rating: 95.8
In the context of the Detroit Lions vs Dallas Cowboys match player stats, Goff’s ability to avoid turnovers was crucial. He spread the ball effectively and executed multiple third-down conversions. Although pressured consistently by the Cowboys’ pass rush, he remained calm and accurate in key moments.
Dallas Cowboys Passing Stats Breakdown
Dak Prescott entered the game in strong form and delivered another high-quality performance that reinforced his MVP-calibre season.
Dak Prescott – Quarterback Performance
- Completions/Attempts: 26/38
- Passing Yards: 345
- Touchdowns: 2
- Interceptions: 0
- Passer Rating: 122.4
Among all Detroit Lions vs Dallas Cowboys match player stats, Prescott’s passing numbers stood out. His chemistry with CeeDee Lamb was exceptional, and his ability to read Detroit’s secondary allowed Dallas to control the tempo for long stretches of the game.
Rushing Stats: Ground Game Comparison
While both teams rely heavily on their passing attacks, the running game played a vital supporting role.
Detroit Lions Rushing Leaders
- Jahmyr Gibbs:
- Carries: 11
- Rushing Yards: 43
- Total Touchdowns: 1 (receiving)
- Carries: 11
- David Montgomery:
- Carries: 14
- Rushing Yards: 33
- Carries: 14
The Detroit Lions vs Dallas Cowboys match player stats show that Detroit struggled to establish a dominant rushing presence. Dallas’ defensive front limited explosive runs, forcing the Lions to lean more on short passes.
Dallas Cowboys Rushing Leaders
- Tony Pollard:
- Carries: 20
- Rushing Yards: 75
- Carries: 20
Pollard’s contribution was not spectacular but highly effective. His steady gains kept the Cowboys’ offence balanced and allowed Prescott to utilise play-action efficiently.
Receiving Stats: Top Playmakers Shine
The receiving performances were a major highlight in the Detroit Lions vs Dallas Cowboys match player stats, with multiple players surpassing 90 receiving yards.
Detroit Lions Receiving Leaders
- Amon-Ra St. Brown:
- Receptions: 6
- Receiving Yards: 90
- Touchdowns: 1
- Receptions: 6
- Sam LaPorta:
- Receptions: 5
- Receiving Yards: 83
- Receptions: 5
St. Brown once again demonstrated why he is one of the NFL’s most reliable receivers. His route running and contested catches kept Detroit competitive throughout the game.
Dallas Cowboys Receiving Leaders
- CeeDee Lamb:
- Receptions: 13
- Receiving Yards: 227
- Receptions: 13
- Brandin Cooks:
- Receptions: 4
- Receiving Yards: 37
- Touchdowns: 1
- Receptions: 4
CeeDee Lamb delivered one of the best performances of the entire NFL season. His 227 receiving yards dominate the Detroit Lions vs Dallas Cowboys match player stats, showcasing elite speed, separation, and yards after catch.
Defensive Stats and Key Stops
Defensive contributions were just as important as offensive output in this tightly contested game.
Detroit Lions Defensive Highlights
- Aidan Hutchinson: 2 QB pressures, multiple run stops
- Alex Anzalone: 10 total tackles
Detroit’s defence bent but did not break for much of the game. They limited red-zone damage and forced Dallas to settle for field goals in key moments.
Dallas Cowboys Defensive Highlights
- Micah Parsons: 2 sacks, constant quarterback pressure
- DaRon Bland: 1 pass defended
Parsons’ impact is clearly visible in the Detroit Lions vs Dallas Cowboys match player stats. His ability to disrupt Goff’s timing changed the rhythm of Detroit’s offence, particularly in the second half.
Special Teams and Discipline
Special teams execution was solid from both sides, with no major mistakes. However, penalties played a notable role.
- Detroit Lions penalties: 5 for 45 yards
- Dallas Cowboys penalties: 6 for 55 yards
Late-game officiating decisions became a focal point, but statistically, both teams were relatively disciplined.
Team Stats Comparison
A broader look at the Detroit Lions vs Dallas Cowboys match player stats reveals just how close the game truly was.
- Total Yards:
- Lions: 391
- Cowboys: 440
- Lions: 391
- Time of Possession:
- Lions: 28:45
- Cowboys: 31:15
- Lions: 28:45
- Turnovers:
- Lions: 0
- Cowboys: 0
- Lions: 0
The lack of turnovers emphasises the high level of execution on both sides.
What the Stats Tell Us About Both Teams
The Detroit Lions vs Dallas Cowboys match player stats highlight two teams capable of deep playoff runs. Detroit proved they can compete with elite NFC opponents on the road, while Dallas showcased their offensive firepower and defensive speed.
For the Lions, continued growth in pass protection and red-zone efficiency will be key. For the Cowboys, maintaining balance between run and pass will determine postseason success.
Impact on Playoff Picture
This game had significant playoff implications. Dallas strengthened their home-field advantage reputation, while Detroit showed resilience despite the loss. The statistical output from this matchup suggests that a postseason rematch would be just as competitive.
Read Also The Article: Philadelphia Eagles vs Washington Commanders Match Player Stats – Full Breakdown, Analysis & Updates
Conclusion
The Detroit Lions vs Dallas Cowboys match player stats from this thrilling encounter tell the story of a high-level NFL contest defined by star performances, strategic execution, and fine margins. Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb delivered elite numbers, while Jared Goff and Amon-Ra St. Brown kept Detroit within striking distance until the very end.
From passing efficiency to defensive pressure, every statistical category reinforces how evenly matched these teams were. For fans, analysts, and fantasy football players, this game remains one of the most data-rich matchups of the season.
FAQs: Detroit Lions vs Dallas Cowboys Match Player Stats
1. Who had the most yards in the Lions vs Cowboys game?
CeeDee Lamb led all players with 227 receiving yards, the highest total in the Detroit Lions vs Dallas Cowboys match player stats.
2. How did Jared Goff perform against the Cowboys?
Jared Goff threw for 271 yards and one touchdown with no interceptions, showing strong efficiency under pressure.
3. Did Dak Prescott throw any interceptions?
No, Dak Prescott finished the game with zero interceptions and over 345 passing yards.
4. Who was the best defensive player in the match?
Micah Parsons stood out defensively with two sacks and constant pressure, heavily influencing the Detroit Lions vs Dallas Cowboys match player stats.
5. What made this matchup so close statistically?
Both teams avoided turnovers and posted similar time-of-possession numbers, making execution and individual brilliance the deciding factors.
