Lindsay H. Jones

USA TODAY Sports

SEATTLE — Breaking down the Cowboys' 30-23 victory over the Seahawks.

Why the Cowboys won: This is a statement win for the Cowboys, who should be considered legitimate threats in the NFC after beating up the defending Super Bowl champions. The Cowboys proved that their winning formula is no fluke, and they have an offensive line that can beat up even the best defense in the NFL. The Cowboys racked up 401 yards against Seattle, including 162 rushing yards, and dominated time of possession by more than 15 minutes. Keep that up, and the Cowboys will be able to win anywhere.

Why the Seahawks lost: The Seahawks were only in this game because of strong play from their special teams, who scored a first-quarter touchdown on a blocked punt and set up Russell Wilson's third-quarter touchdown run by recovering a muffed punt. It was an ugly day for Wilson, especially, who had at least four ugly passes that could have been intercepted. Wilson's final throw in the game's last minute — as he was trying to lead a game-tying or winning drive — was intercepted to seal just the Seahawks second home loss of the Wilson era.

Turning point: It hasn't happened often that the Seahawks weren't the tougher team in their home stadium, but when Dallas quarterback Tony Romo jogged back onto the first in the first quarter after a brutal hit from Seattle linebacker Bobby Wagner, it was clear this would be a much more difficult day for the Seahawks than they anticipated. Aside from a botched snap in the third quarter, Romo was nearly flawless, throwing for 250 yards and a pair of touchdowns. He was particularly clutch on the game-winning drive in the fourth quarter, with third-down completions to Dez Bryant and Terrance Williams.

Key player: Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray confirmed his status as the NFL's best running back with a monster fourth quarter, including three rushes for 46 yards on the Cowboys' game-winning touchdown drive. Murray finished with 115 rushing yards against the Seattle defense that hadn't allowed an opponent to rush for more than 38 yards in a game this season.

Stat that tells the story: The Cowboys converted 10-of-17 third downs — a crucial stat against a Seattle defense that prides itself in getting off the field.

Next for the Seahawks: The Seahawks travel to St. Louis to play the Rams, who will be on a short week after Monday's game against the San Francisco 49ers.

Next for the Cowboys: Dallas returns home for a huge division game against the New York Giants.

Follow Lindsay H. Jones on Twitter @byilndsayhjones.