Switzer’s dazzling punt return sets tone for top playmakers in Cowboys’ win

Ryan Switzer scored on an 83-yard punt return and Dez Bryant added a franchise-record 72nd career touchdown reception in the Dallas Cowboys’ 38-14 win over Washington Thursday night at AT&T Stadium.

Here’s a look at the top playmakers in the game:

Cowboys wide receivers Ryan Switzer and Dez Bryant: The rookie from North Carolina returned a punt 83 yards for a touchdown in the second quarter. The play gave Dallas a 17-0 lead at that point in the game. Bryant set a franchise record with his 72nd career touchdown reception, bypassing the legendary Bob Hayes. He also drew a pass interference call in the end zone that led to a fourth-quarter touchdown run by Alfred Morris. Bryant finished with five catches for 61 yards.

Cowboys running back Alfred Morris. Morris grinded out 127 yards on 27 carries. He added a 1-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter.

Cowboys defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli: Marinelli has been stressing takeaways and sacks all season. His unit got both Thursday night against Washington. The Cowboys protected a 17-7 halftime lead and added four sacks and three turnovers (two interceptions and a fumble recovery). The unit was credited with nine quarterback pressures.

Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence: As good as the defense was overall, Lawrence deserves special mention. He had four tackles, two sacks, two tackles for loss, two quarterback pressures and a forced fumble.

This story was originally published November 30, 2017 at 11:35 PM with the headline "Switzer’s dazzling punt return sets tone for top playmakers in Cowboys’ win."