Cowboys' DaRon Bland sets single-season record with 5th pick-6 - ESPN

ARLINGTON, Texas — After tying the NFL single-season record for interception returns for a touchdown with his fourth on Sunday, Dallas Cowboys cornerback DaRon Bland said he was gunning to set the mark as soon as possible.

He needed just five days.

The second-year cornerback returned an interception 63 yards for the Cowboys' final score in a 45-10 demolition of the Washington Commanders on Thanksgiving Day.

«It's great, especially on this day,» Bland said. «Another thing to be thankful for.»

Entering Thursday, Bland had been tied with Eric Allen (1993), Jim Kearney (1972) and Ken Houston (1971) for the record.

Bland has more defensive touchdowns than any other team this season. The Indianapolis Colts are second with three. His five touchdowns are equal to notable offensive players like Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley and Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs.

«We've got a lot of games left to play, too, so who knows where he's going to extend this record?» Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott said. «As I said the first time y'all asked me about the guy — helluva player, prepares, does everything the right way. I can't say that I'm surprised he's getting the ball in the sense that he is, but it's incredible to watch him go get these touchdowns and be hungry to get in the end zone. Proud of him.»

Bland's record-setter came after jumping an out route from Washington's Sam Howell to Jahan Dotson on second-and-10 from the Dallas 43. After breaking on the ball, the Cowboys sideline erupted as Bland ran downfield. Howell nearly brought him down at the Washington 17, but he sidestepped the quarterback and then eluded Brian Robinson Jr. and Terry McLaurin at the 11 to get in