The Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys met on October 13, 2024, in a game that showed clear dominance from Detroit. The Lions proved their balance and strength, both in passing and rushing. This article gives you a full look at the player stats, big moments, and how each side performed.
Game Overview
The Detroit Lions beat the Dallas Cowboys in a one-sided match that ended 47–9. From the start, Detroit looked more organized and confident. Their offense moved the ball easily, and the defense stopped Dallas again and again.
Dallas struggled to find rhythm. Their quarterback, Dak Prescott, had a hard time dealing with Detroit’s pressure and threw two interceptions. Detroit’s Jared Goff, on the other hand, looked calm and smart, leading his team to one of their best wins of the season.
Team Performance Stats
Here are the key team numbers from the game:
| Category | Detroit Lions | Dallas Cowboys |
|---|---|---|
| Total Yards | 492 | 251 |
| Passing Yards | 308 | 198 |
| Rushing Yards | 184 | 53 |
| First Downs | 27 | 16 |
| Turnovers | 0 | 5 (3 INT, 2 fumbles) |
| Time of Possession | 34:43 min | 25:17 min |
Detroit controlled both the clock and the field. Their mix of passing and running made it hard for Dallas to guess what would come next. Dallas’s defense was on the field too long, which made them tired by the second half.
Jared Goff Leads the Way
Jared Goff, the Lions’ quarterback, was one of the stars of the game. He completed 18 of 25 passes (72 percent) for 315 yards and 3 touchdowns.
He stayed calm in the pocket, found open receivers, and avoided risky throws. Goff’s timing with Amon-Ra St. Brown and Sam LaPorta worked perfectly. Each drive looked smooth and planned.
Goff also showed good leadership. He read Dallas’s defense well and used quick passes to avoid sacks. It was one of his cleanest games this season.
Rushing Game Power
Detroit’s running game was a big reason for their success.
- David Montgomery ran for 80 yards on 12 carries and scored two touchdowns.
- Jahmyr Gibbs added 63 yards on 12 carries.
The Lions used both backs smartly. Montgomery’s power runs broke tackles, while Gibbs added speed on the edges. Together they made the Cowboys’ defense guess on every play.
This balanced rushing attack helped open space for play-action passes, which Goff used well.
Wide Receivers and Tight Ends

Amon-Ra St. Brown continued to be Goff’s favorite target. He had four catches for 37 yards and a touchdown. Even if his yardage was not huge, his catches often came at important moments.
Sam LaPorta, the rookie tight end, showed his strength with a 52-yard touchdown catch. His size and hands made him a key player for short and middle passes.
The Lions’ other receivers also played well, giving Goff many choices. This made it hard for the Cowboys’ secondary to focus on one player.
Detroit Defense Dominates
The Lions’ defense was one of the main reasons for the big win. They forced five turnovers, including three interceptions. Their front line put heavy pressure on Dak Prescott, not giving him enough time to find open men.
Detroit’s linebackers stopped the run early, forcing Dallas to throw more. Cornerbacks covered tightly, which led to bad throws and mistakes.
Even when Detroit lost their star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson to injury during the game, the rest of the defense stepped up.
Dallas Cowboys Struggle
For the Cowboys, it was a day to forget.
Dak Prescott finished with 17 completions on 33 attempts for 178 yards, with two interceptions and no touchdowns. He looked uncomfortable most of the game, facing strong pressure from the Lions’ defense.
The Cowboys’ run game almost disappeared. They finished with only 53 yards rushing. Without balance, their offense became easy to predict.
Wide receiver CeeDee Lamb was the only bright spot with seven catches for 89 yards, but even he couldn’t change the game’s direction.
Key Moments in the Game
- First Quarter: Jared Goff led an early drive ending with a touchdown to Sam LaPorta. Detroit took control right away.
- Second Quarter: David Montgomery scored two rushing touchdowns, pushing the Lions ahead 21–3.
- Third Quarter: Dak Prescott threw an interception returned deep into Dallas territory, leading to another Detroit touchdown.
- Fourth Quarter: Detroit’s backups came in, yet they still managed a field goal and one more touchdown.
These moments showed Detroit’s focus and strength in every part of the game.
Coaching and Strategy
Coach Dan Campbell deserves credit for Detroit’s clear plan. He mixed runs and passes perfectly and kept the Cowboys guessing. His aggressive play-calling early built confidence for the team.
For Dallas, Mike McCarthy’s team looked unprepared for Detroit’s tempo. The Cowboys could not adjust once they fell behind. Their offensive line failed to protect Prescott, and their defense missed tackles all game long.
What the Game Means for Both Teams
For the Lions, this win proved they are one of the top teams in the NFC. Their offense is balanced, their defense is strong, and their confidence is growing.
For the Cowboys, it was a wake-up call. They will need to improve their offensive line and fix their defensive mistakes.
This game might become a turning point for both sides — Detroit’s rise and Dallas’s need to rethink.
Player of the Game
Jared Goff earned the player-of-the-game title. His smart throws, calm under pressure, and leadership guided the Lions to victory. His teamwork with his receivers showed why Detroit’s offense has become so reliable in 2024.
Final Score and Summary
Final Score: Detroit Lions 47 – Dallas Cowboys 9
Detroit’s combination of a strong passing game, effective rushing, and solid defense gave them full control. They didn’t just win — they dominated every area of play.
The game showed how much Detroit has grown this season. Fans left proud, and experts praised their teamwork and discipline.
Key Takeaways
- Detroit’s balanced offense kept Dallas guessing all game.
- Jared Goff’s leadership and accuracy made the difference.
- Detroit’s defense forced five turnovers and stopped the run.
- Dallas needs more offensive protection and fewer mistakes.
- The Lions look ready for a deep playoff run if they keep this form.
Conclusion
The Detroit Lions vs Dallas Cowboys game in 2024 was a strong reminder of how teamwork and balance can win big games. The Lions played smart football, mixing power runs with accurate passes, and never lost control of the match. Their offense worked smoothly, their defense was sharp, and their confidence showed from start to finish.
For the Cowboys, it was a tough day. They struggled to move the ball and made too many mistakes. Still, games like this can teach a team valuable lessons. With better focus and stronger protection for Dak Prescott, Dallas can bounce back.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who won the Detroit Lions vs Dallas Cowboys game in 2024?
The Detroit Lions won with a score of 47–9.
2. When was the game played?
The game took place on October 13, 2024.
3. Who was the best player in the game?
Quarterback Jared Goff was the standout performer for the Lions.
4. How many yards did Jared Goff throw for?
He threw for 315 yards and three touchdowns.
5. How did David Montgomery perform?
He ran for 80 yards and scored two touchdowns.
6. Did Dallas Cowboys have any touchdowns?
No, they scored only through field goals.
7. How many turnovers did Dallas commit?
They had five turnovers — three interceptions and two fumbles.
8. Who led the Cowboys in receiving?
CeeDee Lamb led with seven catches for 89 yards.
9. What was the main reason for Dallas’s loss?
Poor offensive protection and too many mistakes.
10. What does this win mean for the Detroit Lions?
It showed they can compete with any NFC team and aim for the playoffs.
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