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Cowboys trounce Rams in much needed win

Cowboys win at home over the Rams, staying ahead of the Eagles in the NFC East.

Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott runs with the ball in the first quarter against the Los Angeles Rams at AT&T Stadium. Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

The Cowboys came into this matchup having lost three in a row and four of their last five. It has been an up and down season to say the least for Dallas, but a decisive win against the Rams, a team with a winning record, keeps them atop the NFC East and gives them a boost going into their matchup with the Eagles.

Ezekiel Elliott ended up leading the way against a tough Rams run defense, rushing 24 times for 117 yards and two touchdowns while Dak Prescott threw for 212 yards and two touchdowns. Rookie Tony Pollard went garbage-time crazy, rushing 12 times for 131 yards and a touchdown while the Cowboys top receivers, Amari Cooper and Michael Gallup were held to two receptions for 25 yards.

The Rams didn’t put up a fight despite still having a chance to make the playoffs, albeit a small one. They aren’t eliminated just yet, as they could still sneak in if they win their last two games against the 49ers and Cardinals and the Vikings lose their last two games to the Packers and Bears.

Todd Gurley, who had his touches managed for much of the season, was still in the game down 30 points in the fourth quarter. It worked out for his fantasy backers, as he scored two touchdowns and totaled 37 yards on 15 touches.

The Cowboys head to Philadelphia next week for a chance to win the NFC East outright. If they prevail, they win the division and host a wildcard game. If they lose, they still have a chance but they would need the Eagles to lose to the Giants and the Cowboys to beat Washington. The winner next week holds all the playoff cards.