Dallas Cowboys QB Dak Prescott Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Cowboys QB Dak Prescott throws 31-yard TD to WR Brandin Cooks

The Dallas Cowboys are finally figuring out how to maximize wide receiver Brandin Cooks, a big-play specialist.

Against the Washington Commanders on Thanksgiving, Dallas quarterback Dak Prescott threw a 31-yard TD to Cooks, giving the Cowboys a 14-3 lead with 8:27 remaining in the second quarter. 

The Cowboys acquired the 30-year-old receiver from the Houston Texans in March, hoping he would supercharge their passing offense. 

At the beginning of the season, Cooks couldn't find his footing. Through the first eight games, he had only 17 receptions with no games over 100 yards receiving. Over the past two weeks, however, he has notched 17 receptions and posted a season-high 173 yards in a Week 10 victory over the New York Giants.

If Cooks keeps cooking, that would be great for the Cowboys, who already generate plenty of explosive plays. Entering Week 12, they're second in the NFL in points scored (30.2) and fifth in passing yards (255.5). 

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