On October 13, 2024, the Detroit Lions delivered a historic 47-9 victory over the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium, marking their first win against Dallas since 2013. This Week 6 NFL matchup was a showcase of Detroit’s offensive firepower and defensive dominance, while exposing Dallas’ struggles at home. In this article, we’ll break down the key player stats, highlight standout performances, and provide data-driven insights into what made this game a turning point for both teams. Whether you’re a Lions fan celebrating the triumph or a Cowboys supporter analyzing the loss, this detailed recap has you covered.
Why Was the Lions vs. Cowboys Game So Significant?
The Lions’ 47-9 rout was more than just a win—it was a statement. Detroit’s largest road victory since 1970 and Dallas’ worst home loss since 1988 underscored the gap between the two teams. The game also had emotional weight, with the Lions avenging a controversial 20-19 loss to the Cowboys in 2023, marred by a disputed two-point conversion call. However, the victory was bittersweet, as Lions’ star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson suffered a season-altering tibia injury.
Key Takeaway for Featured Snippet: The Detroit Lions defeated the Dallas Cowboys 47-9 on October 13, 2024, in a Week 6 NFL game, with Jared Goff throwing for 315 yards and three touchdowns, while the Lions’ defense forced five turnovers.
Game Overview: Lions Dominate from Start to Finish
The Lions set the tone early, responding to a Cowboys’ field goal with a touchdown drive capped by David Montgomery’s 16-yard run. Detroit’s offense was relentless, scoring on every drive (excluding a kneel-down) before halftime, while their defense forced five turnovers, including three interceptions. By the third quarter, the Lions led 34-6, and “Let’s go Lions” chants echoed in Dallas’ home stadium.
What Were the Key Moments of the Game?
-
First Quarter: After Dallas opened with a 34-yard field goal, Montgomery’s 16-yard touchdown run gave Detroit the lead. A Brian Branch interception in the end zone halted a Cowboys’ scoring threat.
-
Second Quarter: A flea-flicker play resulted in a 52-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Sam LaPorta. Montgomery added another score, and the Lions led 27-6 at halftime.
-
Third Quarter: Jameson Williams’ 37-yard touchdown catch extended the lead, but Hutchinson’s injury dampened the mood.
-
Fourth Quarter: Amon-Ra St. Brown’s 4-yard touchdown catch and additional field goals sealed the blowout.
Player Stats Breakdown: Lions vs. Cowboys
Below is a comprehensive table summarizing the key player stats from the Detroit Lions vs. Dallas Cowboys game on October 13, 2024, based on data from ESPN, NFL.com, and other reliable sources.
Player |
Team |
Position |
Passing (Comp/Att, Yds, TD, INT) |
Rushing (Car, Yds, TD) |
Receiving (Rec, Yds, TD) |
Defense (Tackles, INT, Sacks) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Jared Goff |
Lions |
QB |
18/25, 315 yds, 3 TD, 0 INT |
0 car, 0 yds, 0 TD |
– | – |
David Montgomery |
Lions |
RB |
– |
12 car, 80 yds, 2 TD |
1 rec, 0 yds, 0 TD |
– |
Jahmyr Gibbs |
Lions |
RB |
– |
12 car, 63 yds, 0 TD |
3 rec, 28 yds, 0 TD |
– |
Amon-Ra St. Brown |
Lions |
WR |
– | – |
4 rec, 37 yds, 1 TD |
– |
Jameson Williams |
Lions |
WR |
– | – |
3 rec, 76 yds, 1 TD |
– |
Sam LaPorta |
Lions |
TE |
– | – |
1 rec, 52 yds, 1 TD |
– |
Tim Patrick |
Lions |
WR |
– | – |
3 rec, 68 yds, 0 TD |
– |
Brian Branch |
Lions |
S |
– | – | – |
6 tackles, 2 INT, 0 sacks |
Aidan Hutchinson |
Lions |
DE |
– | – | – |
3 tackles, 0 INT, 1 sack |
Dak Prescott |
Cowboys |
QB |
17/33, 178 yds, 0 TD, 2 INT |
2 car, 9 yds, 0 TD |
– | – |
Rico Dowdle |
Cowboys |
RB |
– |
5 car, 25 yds, 0 TD |
2 rec, 17 yds, 0 TD |
– |
CeeDee Lamb |
Cowboys |
WR |
– | – |
4 rec, 61 yds, 0 TD |
– |
KaVontae Turpin |
Cowboys |
WR |
– | – |
3 rec, 22 yds, 0 TD |
– |
Brandon Aubrey |
Cowboys |
K |
– | – | – |
3/3 FG |
Source: ESPN, NFL.com, DetroitLions.com
Offensive Standouts: Lions’ Firepower Shines
-
Jared Goff: Goff continued his hot streak, completing 18 of 25 passes for 315 yards, three touchdowns, and a 153.8 passer rating. His precision on deep throws, like the 52-yard touchdown to LaPorta, exploited Dallas’ secondary.
-
David Montgomery: Montgomery’s 80 yards and two touchdowns on 12 carries showcased his physical running style. His 16-yard score set the tone early.
-
Jameson Williams: The speedy receiver had three catches for 76 yards, including a 37-yard touchdown, proving his value as a deep threat.
Defensive Heroes: Lions’ Takeaway Machine
-
Brian Branch: The second-year safety was a game-changer, recording two interceptions, a forced fumble, and six tackles. His end-zone pick in the first quarter shifted momentum.
-
Aidan Hutchinson: Before his injury, Hutchinson added a sack, bringing his season total to 7.5. His absence will challenge Detroit’s pass rush moving forward.
Cowboys’ Struggles: Where They Fell Short
-
Dak Prescott: Prescott’s 178 yards, two interceptions, and 42.2 passer rating reflected a tough day under pressure. He was sacked four times, highlighting Dallas’ offensive line issues.
-
Run Defense: The Cowboys allowed 184 rushing yards, with Montgomery and Gibbs averaging 5.1 yards per carry. Dallas’ 29% run-stop win rate was exposed.
-
CeeDee Lamb: Limited to four catches for 61 yards, Lamb couldn’t spark the offense against Detroit’s tight coverage.
How Did the Lions’ Strategy Lead to Victory?
Detroit’s game plan was a masterclass in balance and aggression. Offensively, coordinator Ben Johnson mixed run-heavy drives with trick plays, like the flea-flicker to LaPorta. The Lions’ 74% run-block win rate overwhelmed Dallas’ front seven. Defensively, they capitalized on Prescott’s mistakes, with Branch and Kerby Joseph (one interception) leading a takeaway frenzy. Detroit’s 46.9% third-down conversion rate kept drives alive, while their red-zone defense held Dallas to zero touchdowns.
What Went Wrong for the Cowboys?
Dallas’ defense, missing key edge rushers like Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence, couldn’t stop the run or pressure Goff effectively. Offensively, their 2.8 yards per carry and five turnovers crippled any comeback hopes. The Cowboys’ 28.6% third-down conversion rate in the game underscored their inability to sustain drives.
Injury Impact: Aidan Hutchinson’s Loss Looms Large
The Lions’ victory was overshadowed by Aidan Hutchinson’s fractured tibia and fibula, requiring surgery. As the NFL’s sack leader at the time, his absence will test Detroit’s defensive depth. Coach Dan Campbell emphasized Hutchinson’s leadership, calling him “the heartbeat of this team”. Fans can stay updated on his recovery via NFL insider Adam Schefter’s reports.
Practical Tips for Fans Analyzing NFL Stats
Want to dive deeper into games like Lions vs. Cowboys? Here’s how to make sense of player stats:
-
Focus on Efficiency Metrics: Look at yards per carry, passer rating, and third-down conversion rates to gauge team performance.
-
Track Turnovers: Detroit’s five takeaways were pivotal. Check turnover differential to predict game outcomes.
-
Use Reliable Sources: Websites like ESPN, NFL.com, and Pro Football Network offer detailed box scores and advanced metrics.
-
Watch for Injuries: Hutchinson’s injury could shift Detroit’s defensive strategy. Follow team updates for lineup changes.
What Can We Learn from This Game for Future Matchups?
For the Lions, this game solidified their status as NFC contenders, with a 4-1 record heading into a showdown with the undefeated Minnesota Vikings. Their balanced attack and opportunistic defense are blueprints for success. For the Cowboys, the 3-3 record and 0-3 home performance signal a need for defensive reinforcements and better ball security. Fans should watch how both teams adjust in upcoming weeks.
See Also: fballquery.com
Conclusion
The Detroit Lions’ 47-9 demolition of the Dallas Cowboys on October 13, 2024, was a defining moment in their 2024 season. Jared Goff’s precision, David Montgomery’s bruising runs, and Brian Branch’s defensive heroics showcased a team firing on all cylinders. While Aidan Hutchinson’s injury casts a shadow, the Lions proved they can dominate elite opponents. For the Cowboys, the loss exposed glaring weaknesses that must be addressed to salvage their season.