Why the Colts' letting the Cowboys score at the end of the game was the right decision

Indianapolis Colts coach Shane Steichen made a controversial decision during Sunday's 27-23 loss against the Dallas Cowboys at Lucas Oil Stadium. With only 1:10 remaining on the clock, Steichen ordered his defense to allow Dallas to score the go-ahead touchdown. Pass interference on Indianapolis defensive back Kapena Gushiken set up Dallas on a first-and-goal from the 1-yard line. Steichen believed that his defense wouldn't be able to stop Dallas on four consecutive plays with more than a minute left in the game.

Steichen acknowledged that his team allowed Dallas four opportunities to score from the 1-yard line, but he explained that giving Dallas the ball back provided Indianapolis with a chance to regain possession. In total, only 6.7% of drives that included a first-and-goal from the 1-yard line resulted in no points scored. Indianapolis took over at their own 26-yard line with 1:03 left on the clock.

Quarterback Daniel Jones committed an intentional grounding penalty on the first down of the drive. After the penalty, the Colts faced a second-and-22 situation. Jones threw an incomplete pass to tight end Tyler Warren, and then attempted to complete a pass to wide receiver Keenan Allen, which was intercepted by rookie safety Caleb Downs. This ended the game in a Dallas victory.

Steichen did not express regret over his decision after the game. His defense gave up 508 yards of total offense throughout the match, including 179 rushing yards on 34 carries. The Cowboys had ample time to execute their four plays, and Steichen chose to prioritize regaining possession for Indianapolis.