The San Francisco 49ers (11–7) handed the Dallas Cowboys (12–6) another early playoff defeat, 23–17, in the NFC wild-card matchup at Arlington on Sunday. Dallas currently has the most consecutive playoff attempts—11 from 1996—without reaching the NFC finals. For the recently signed $40 million dollar contract of Dak Prescott, the quarterback has been unsuccessful leading the cowboys to their second first-round playoff loss in three attempts over the past six seasons. For San Francisco, a balanced attack, along with dominating defensive play, held the Cowboys’ highest scoring offensive unit in check. Niners Elijah Mitchell ran for 96 yards on 27 carries scoring a touchdown; while receiver Deboo Samuel gained 72 yards rushing on 10 carries for a touchdown, while also catching three passes for 38 yards. The Niners team total in rushing was 169 yards, alongside 172 yards through the air. Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo completed 16 of 25 passes for 172 yards …