Cowboys studs and duds Week 14: DeMarcus Lawrence sets up game-winning drive

Following a 54-point explosion against the Colts, the Dallas Cowboys were expected to really have their way with the Houston Texans in Week 14.

That wasn’t the case at all, though, as they spent the majority of the game trying to catch up to their in-state rivals.

Dallas even needed a huge defensive stop in the final minutes, as well as a 98-yard drive, to secure the win.

But, since they captured the win, it’s safe to exhale and look back over the nail-biting contest/ identify a few studs and duds.

Cowboys studs and duds Week 14 vs Houston Texans

Stud: Donovan Wilson, Safety

With Houston up 20-17 and getting the ball to start the third quarter, they had all the momentum. Dallas needed something to go their way, and it finally did when Donovan Wilson hit Pierce and forced a fumble.

The ball bounced right to Trevon Diggs, who gained 15 yards after running around for what felt like a couple of minutes.

That should have led to points, and possibly the lead, but Dallas failed to get the ball in the end zone and turned it over on downs when Ezekiel Elliott was stuffed on fourth-and-goal.

Still, Wilson delivered when his team needed him to — something that has been true throughout the season, as he’s put together an impressive campaign.

Dud: KaVontae Turpin, Returner

Dallas was up 7-0 and forced a punt with a three-and-out on their first defensive series. A 47-yard punt was fielded by KaVontae Turpin, and he wound up muffing the ball. The fumble was recovered by Houston linebacker Blake Cashman, giving the Texans the ball at the Dallas 24.

The Texans were able to go 24 yards in six plays, and Dameon Pierce scored a one-yard touchdown to tie the game up at seven. It was the first of several miscues that allowed Houston to nearly pull off the upset.