The Dallas Cowboys vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers match player stats reveal the intensity of their thrilling December 22, 2024, clash, where standout performances shaped a dramatic 26-24 Cowboys victory. From Cooper Rush’s efficient passing to Baker Mayfield’s 303-yard effort, the numbers tell a story of grit and strategy. Analyzing these stats offers fans deeper insights into key plays, turnovers, and individual brilliance that defined this NFL rivalry showdown.
Why the Cowboys vs. Buccaneers Matchup Matters
The Cowboys vs. Buccaneers game is more than just another NFL fixture. It’s a clash of offensive firepower, defensive grit, and strategic play-calling. In their Week 16 encounter, the Cowboys, despite being eliminated from playoff contention, showed resilience against a Tampa Bay team fighting for NFC South supremacy. The stats from this game reveal how individual efforts shaped the outcome and what fans can learn from the numbers.
Key Highlights of the Game
- Final Score: Cowboys 26, Buccaneers 24
- Turnovers: Cowboys forced two critical turnovers, including a game-sealing fumble recovery.
- Field Goals: Dallas’ Brandon Aubrey was clutch, nailing four field goals, three from 50+ yards.
- Passing Leaders: Tampa’s Baker Mayfield threw for 303 yards, while Dallas’ Cooper Rush managed 149 yards with a touchdown.
Breaking Down Player Stats: Cowboys vs. Buccaneers
Let’s dive into the numbers that defined this matchup. Below is a detailed table showcasing key player stats, followed by an analysis of standout performances.
| Player | Team | Position | Passing Yards | Rushing Yards | Receiving Yards | Touchdowns | Tackles | Sacks | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooper Rush | Cowboys | QB | 149 | 0 | 0 | 1 (Pass) | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Ezekiel Elliott | Cowboys | RB | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 (Rush) | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| CeeDee Lamb | Cowboys | WR | 0 | 0 | 63 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Brandon Aubrey | Cowboys | K | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 (4 FGs) | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| DaRon Bland | Cowboys | CB | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 | 0 | 0 (1 FR) |
| Baker Mayfield | Buccaneers | QB | 303 | 12 | 0 | 2 (Pass) | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Bucky Irving | Buccaneers | RB | 0 | 68 | 0 | 1 (Rush) | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Mike Evans | Buccaneers | WR | 0 | 0 | 69 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Jalen McMillan | Buccaneers | WR | 0 | 0 | 57 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Lavonte David | Buccaneers | LB | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 7 | 0 | 0 |
*FR = Fumble Recovery
Cowboys’ Offensive Standouts
Despite missing key players like Dak Prescott and Zack Martin, the Cowboys’ offense showed poise. Cooper Rush stepped up, completing 14 of 22 passes for 149 yards, including a touchdown to Jalen Tolbert. His efficiency kept drives alive, especially in the first half, where Dallas built a 10-0 lead.
Brandon Aubrey was the unsung hero, setting an NFL record with his 14th field goal of 50+ yards in the season. His four field goals, including two 58-yarders, accounted for 12 of Dallas’ 26 points. For fantasy football players, Aubrey’s consistency makes him a must-start kicker.
CeeDee Lamb, battling a shoulder injury, still managed 63 receiving yards on five catches. His 52-yard reception set up a crucial touchdown, proving why he’s a top-tier wideout despite limited second-half snaps.
Buccaneers’ Offensive Firepower
Baker Mayfield led Tampa’s offense with 31 of 43 completions for 303 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. His connection with Jalen McMillan (5 receptions, 57 yards, 1 TD) and Mike Evans (6 receptions, 69 yards) kept the Bucs in the game. However, three sacks and a late interception by Jourdan Lewis hindered Tampa’s comeback.
Bucky Irving paced the ground game with 68 yards on 16 carries, including a touchdown. His agility complemented Mayfield’s passing, but a late fumble by Rachaad White, recovered by DaRon Bland, sealed Tampa’s fate.
Defensive Impact Players
The Cowboys’ defense, led by Micah Parsons (1 sack) and DaRon Bland (1 fumble recovery), disrupted Tampa’s rhythm. Bland’s strip of White with 1:31 left was a game-changer, showcasing Dallas’ knack for clutch plays.
For Tampa, Lavonte David led with seven tackles, anchoring a defense that struggled to contain Dallas’ early momentum. The Bucs’ secondary, bolstered by Mike Edwards’ return, limited big plays but couldn’t stop Aubrey’s long-range accuracy.
What Were the Turning Points in the Game?
Several moments defined this Cowboys-Buccaneers thriller:
- Early Lead: Dallas jumped to a 10-0 advantage with Aubrey’s 58-yard field goal and a touchdown pass from Rush to Tolbert.
- Turnovers: Jourdan Lewis’ interception and Bland’s fumble recovery in the fourth quarter thwarted Tampa’s late rally.
- Aubrey’s Kicks: His record-setting field goals kept Dallas ahead, even as Tampa’s offense gained traction.
How Did Injuries Affect the Game?
Injuries played a significant role. The Cowboys were without stars like Prescott, Martin, and Trevon Diggs, while Lamb’s shoulder limited his second-half impact. Tampa missed tight end Cade Otton, forcing Mayfield to rely heavily on Evans and McMillan. Despite these setbacks, both teams showed depth, with backups like Rush and Irving stepping up.
Statistical Insights for Fans and Analysts
To provide deeper context, let’s look at some advanced metrics:
- Third-Down Efficiency: Tampa converted 50% (7/14) of third downs, compared to Dallas’ 33% (4/12). Yet, Dallas’ turnover advantage proved decisive.
- Time of Possession: Tampa held the ball for 32:48, but Dallas’ quick-strike scoring kept them in control.
- Red Zone Efficiency: Both teams struggled, with Dallas at 50% (1/2) and Tampa at 66% (2/3).
These numbers highlight Dallas’ ability to capitalize on mistakes, even against a statistically superior Tampa offense.
How Can Fans Use These Stats?
For fantasy football enthusiasts or sports bettors, these stats offer actionable insights:
- Start Brandon Aubrey: His reliability from long range is unmatched, making him a top kicker pick.
- Monitor CeeDee Lamb’s Health: His shoulder injury could impact his output in future games.
- Bet on Mayfield’s Yards: He’s consistently hitting 250+ passing yards, ideal for over/under props.
Historical Context: Cowboys vs. Buccaneers Rivalry
The Cowboys lead the all-time series 16-6, with a 20.8 points-per-game average compared to Tampa’s 15.0. Their 2024 matchup echoed past battles, like the 2021 opener where Tampa edged Dallas 31-29. The Cowboys’ ability to upset a playoff-bound Tampa team in 2024 mirrors their resilience in high-stakes games.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
For Dallas (7-8), the win boosted morale heading into the offseason. With key players returning in 2025, they could reclaim NFC East contention. Tampa (8-7) now faces a tight NFC South race, needing wins against Carolina and New Orleans to secure a playoff spot. Their loss to Dallas exposed vulnerabilities in clutch moments.
Tips for Fans Analyzing NFL Stats
Want to dive deeper into NFL stats like a pro? Here’s how:
- Use Advanced Metrics: Look beyond yards and touchdowns. Metrics like DVOA (Defense-adjusted Value Over Average) reveal efficiency.
- Track Turnovers: Games often hinge on mistakes, as seen with Tampa’s two giveaways.
- Follow Injury Reports: Player availability, like Lamb’s shoulder or Otton’s absence, shapes outcomes.
- Leverage Apps: Tools like ESPN or NFL.com provide real-time stats for in-game analysis.
FAQs
Who Were the Top Performers in the Cowboys vs. Buccaneers Game?
Brandon Aubrey (4 FGs), Baker Mayfield (303 yards, 2 TDs), and DaRon Bland (game-sealing fumble recovery) stood out.
How Did Turnovers Impact the Game?
Dallas forced two turnovers (an interception and a fumble), both in the fourth quarter, which halted Tampa’s comeback.
What Was the Final Score?
The Cowboys defeated the Buccaneers 26-24 on December 22, 2024.
See Also: fballquery.com
Conclusion
The Dallas Cowboys vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers matchup on December 22, 2024, was a showcase of resilience, strategy, and individual brilliance. From Brandon Aubrey’s record-breaking kicks to DaRon Bland’s clutch fumble recovery, the stats tell a story of a game won in the margins. For fans, this game offers lessons in perseverance and the power of timely plays. As both teams look ahead, the numbers from this thriller will fuel debates and strategies for seasons to come.
