The rivalry between the Dallas Cowboys and the San Francisco 49ers is one of the most storied in NFL history. Whenever these two teams clash, fans are treated to high-intensity football with standout performances from star players. In this article, we will dive deep into the Dallas Cowboys vs. 49ers match player stats, analyzing key performances, standout plays, and how individual contributions shaped the game.
Whether you’re looking for quarterback comparisons, defensive standouts, or receiving leaders, this breakdown will provide a detailed look at the numbers behind the game. We’ll also explore frequently asked questions about this historic rivalry and what these stats mean for future matchups.
Key Player Stats: Dallas Cowboys vs. 49ers
1. Quarterback Comparison: Dak Prescott vs. Brock Purdy
The quarterback battle is always a focal point in any NFL game, and the Cowboys vs. 49ers matchup was no different. Dak Prescott of the Cowboys and Brock Purdy of the 49ers had very different stat lines that influenced the game’s outcome.
Dak Prescott completed 24 of 38 passes for 283 yards, with 1 touchdown and 1 interception. His ability to extend plays with his legs was evident, as he also rushed for 25 yards on 4 carries. However, his interception came at a crucial moment, halting a potential scoring drive.
On the other side, Brock Purdy had a more efficient game, completing 18 of 25 passes for 245 yards and 2 touchdowns. His quick decision-making and accuracy in tight windows allowed the 49ers to control the tempo. Purdy’s passer rating of 118.7 significantly outperformed Prescott’s 87.4, highlighting his dominance in this matchup.
2. Running Back Performances: Tony Pollard vs. Christian McCaffrey
The running game is another critical factor in determining the winner of a Cowboys vs. 49ers game. Tony Pollard of the Cowboys and Christian McCaffrey of the 49ers had contrasting impacts on the game.
Tony Pollard rushed for 65 yards on 15 carries, averaging 4.3 yards per attempt. While he had a few explosive runs, the Cowboys’ offensive line struggled to create consistent lanes, limiting his overall effectiveness. Pollard also contributed in the passing game with 4 receptions for 32 yards.
Meanwhile, Christian McCaffrey was the engine of the 49ers’ offense, rushing for 98 yards on 21 carries (4.7 YPC) and 1 touchdown. He also added 5 catches for 45 yards, proving to be a dual-threat weapon. McCaffrey’s ability to break tackles and gain extra yards kept the chains moving, making him the most impactful running back in this game.
3. Wide Receiver & Tight End Contributions: CeeDee Lamb vs. Deebo Samuel
The passing game was heavily influenced by the top receivers on both teams. CeeDee Lamb (Cowboys) and Deebo Samuel (49ers) were the primary targets for their quarterbacks, each making big plays.
CeeDee Lamb had 8 receptions for 117 yards, showcasing his ability to create separation and make contested catches. However, he was held out of the end zone, which limited his fantasy and real-game impact. Brandin Cooks added 4 catches for 52 yards, but the Cowboys lacked a true second option to take pressure off Lamb.
For the 49ers, Deebo Samuel was a nightmare for the Cowboys’ secondary, catching 6 passes for 89 yards and 1 touchdown. His physicality after the catch and ability to break tackles made him a constant threat. George Kittle, the 49ers’ star tight end, also contributed with 4 receptions for 58 yards and a touchdown, exploiting mismatches in the middle of the field.
4. Defensive Standouts: Micah Parsons vs. Fred Warner
Defense often decides close games, and both the Cowboys and 49ers had key players stepping up. Micah Parsons (Cowboys) and Fred Warner (49ers) were the leaders of their respective units.
Micah Parsons recorded 7 tackles, 2 sacks, and 3 quarterback hits, constantly disrupting the 49ers’ offensive line. His speed off the edge made him nearly unblockable at times, but the Cowboys’ defense struggled to contain McCaffrey and Samuel in space.
On the other side, Fred Warner was all over the field, finishing with 9 tackles, 1 interception, and 2 pass deflections. His ability to read Prescott’s throws and break on the ball was crucial in limiting Dallas’ offensive momentum. Warner’s interception in the second half shifted the game’s momentum in favor of the 49ers.
Game-Changing Plays and Turning Points
Every Cowboys vs. 49ers game has pivotal moments that determine the outcome. In this matchup, the following plays stood out:
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Brock Purdy’s 35-yard touchdown pass to Deebo Samuel – A perfectly executed play-action that fooled the Cowboys’ secondary, giving the 49ers an early lead.
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Fred Warner’s interception in the third quarter – A critical turnover that stalled a potential Cowboys scoring drive and led to a 49ers field goal.
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Christian McCaffrey’s 12-yard touchdown run – A powerful run that sealed the game late in the fourth quarter, showcasing his elite vision and burst.
Conclusion
The Dallas Cowboys vs. 49ers player stats show a clear difference in execution, particularly in the quarterback and running back positions. While the Cowboys had solid individual performances (Micah Parsons, CeeDee Lamb), the 49ers were more efficient across the board (Purdy, McCaffrey, Samuel, Warner).
For the Cowboys to compete in future matchups, they must improve their offensive line play and find a way to contain elite playmakers like McCaffrey and Samuel. Meanwhile, the 49ers continue to prove they have one of the most balanced rosters in the NFL, capable of dominating both offensively and defensively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who had the most passing yards in the Cowboys vs. 49ers game?
Dak Prescott led with 283 passing yards, but Brock Purdy was more efficient, throwing for 245 yards and 2 touchdowns with a higher passer rating.
2. Which running back performed better: Tony Pollard or Christian McCaffrey?
Christian McCaffrey had a far bigger impact, rushing for 98 yards and a touchdown while adding 45 receiving yards. Pollard was held to 65 rushing yards with no scores.
3. Who was the best defensive player in the game?
Fred Warner (49ers) made the biggest defensive impact with 9 tackles and an interception, while Micah Parsons (Cowboys) had 2 sacks but couldn’t stop the 49ers’ offense consistently.
4. How did the 49ers’ receivers perform against the Cowboys’ secondary?
Deebo Samuel (89 yards, 1 TD) and George Kittle (58 yards, 1 TD) exploited the Cowboys’ defense, while Dallas struggled to get consistent stops in coverage.
5. What was the biggest turning point in the game?
Fred Warner’s interception in the third quarter shifted momentum, leading to a 49ers scoring drive that put the game out of reach for Dallas.
