4 plays that shaped the Cowboys' season-ending loss to 49ers

4 plays that shaped the Cowboys’ season-ending loss to 49ers

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 22: Dak Prescott #4 of the Dallas Cowboys throws a pass against the San Francisco 49ers during the second quarter in the NFC Divisional Playoff game at Levi's Stadium on January 22, 2023 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

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Cowboys, Donovan Wilsons. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) /

3. Donovan Wilson holding penalty on George Kittle

The 49ers’ 10-play, 91-yard touchdown drive was the story of the game. Much like last season’s playoff loss to San Francisco, Dallas’ second half penalties came home to roost. On this drive alone, they committed three infractions. None was bigger than Wilson’s hold on George Kittle on 3rd and 8.

The pass rush got home in the form of DeMarcus Lawrence. Brock Prudy didn’t have enough time to locate Kittle up the seem. Beaten on the route, Wilson bear-hugged the Niners’ tight end and the drive continued.

Ipso facto, a colossal defensive stand quickly morphed into a back-breaking rushing score from Christian McCaffrey. The touchdown extended the 49ers’ lead to 16-9 and that was more than enough to get the job done with Dallas’ struggling to muster anything resembling a rhythm on offense.

Wilson was a rock all year for Dan Quinn, but he had a lapse in judgment and it cost the Cowboys dearly with their season on the line.

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