Cleveland– Dak Prescott's contract deal electrified the Dallas Cowboys, who led the Cleveland Browns early in their season opener.
Even when Cleveland's defense showed its force, the Cowboys maintained their lead with Prescott's offense, sack-happy defense, and touchdown-scoring special teams.
Dallas won 33-17, posting its second straight season opener blowout. Dallas' Week 1 upset of the New York Giants last year should be less significant than a 16-point away win over the 2023 defense's best.
The Cowboys must beat playoff-caliber opponents in new terrain to end their decades-long postseason skid.
The Cowboys paid Prescott $60 million a year on his extension with those lofty goals in mind, and they will view their win over the Browns in that light.
After a penalty and sack-filled opening series, Prescott found CeeDee Lamb down the right sideline for 34 yards on Dallas' second drive before connecting with Brandin Cooks for a 21-yard score to the left.
The Cowboys started two rookie offensive lineman, including first-round left tackle Tyler Guyton, and the Browns' defense found Prescott sometimes. In between sacks from Dalvin Tomlinson, Myles Garrett, and Za'Darius Smith, Prescott completed 19-of-32 passes for 179 yards and one touchdown.
Running back Ezekiel Elliott returned from a year in New England with 49 yards and a touchdown.