4 Reasons Dak Prescott Is Better Than You Think in the Playoffs

4 Reasons Dak Prescott Is Better Than You Think in the Playoffs
Inside The Star Inside The Star

Dak Prescott, quarterback of the Dallas Cowboys, has been one of the most polarizing players in the NFL when it comes to playoff performance.

While he’s consistently productive in the regular season, the question remains: Is Dak Prescott bad in the playoffs? Or is he being held back by a lackluster supporting cast, including his defense, offensive line, and coaching staff?

In this article, you will be provided a full, game-by-game breakdown of Prescott’s playoff career—evaluating both his individual performance and the team around him—to settle the debate once and for all.


Dak Prescott Playoff Stats (Through 2023)

  • Games: 7
  • Record: 2-5
  • Completion %: 64.5%
  • Passing Yards/Game: 392.4
  • Touchdowns: 14
  • Interceptions: 7
  • Passer Rating: 91.8

While these numbers aren’t disastrous, they don’t reflect elite playoff quarterbacking either.

Dak Prescott has had a few brilliant moments but also some critical errors that have cost the Cowboys dearly.

Now let’s dig into each game.


Full Game-by-Game Breakdown of Dak Prescott’s Playoff Career

2016 NFC Divisional Round vs Green Bay Packers

Analysis:

Dak Prescott, a rookie, was phenomenal.

He led a comeback from an 18-point deficit and tied the game late in the fourth quarter.

The Cowboys’ defense, however, allowed Aaron Rodgers to complete a miracle 3rd &20 pass to set up the game-winning field goal.

Verdict: Dak was great. The defense lost the game.

2018 NFC Wild Card vs Seattle Seahawks

Analysis:

Prescott came up clutch with a critical 3rd & 14 scramble late in the game. Despite an early red zone interception, he managed the game well.

The defense and run game (137 yards from Ezekiel Elliott) played strong complementary roles.

Verdict: A solid performance. Team win.

2018 NFC Divisional Round vs Los Angeles Rams

Analysis:

Prescott played efficiently and kept the Cowboys within striking distance.

However, the defense was overwhelmed, giving up 273 rushing yards, allowing the Rams to dominate time of possession.

Verdict: Dak played well. Defense failed.

2021 NFC Wild Card vs San Francisco 49ers

  • Final Score: 49ers 23, Cowboys 17
  • Dak’s Stats: 254 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT, one rushing TD, 69.3 Rating

Analysis:

Prescott was inaccurate and made questionable decisions.

The game ended with the infamous quarterback draw. He slid in bounds with no timeouts left, ending the game.

The offensive line committed 14 penalties, stalling drives and killing momentum.

Verdict: Sloppy game for both Dak and momentum.

2022 NFC Wild Card vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Analysis:

This was Dak Prescott’s best...