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NFC Game Of The Week
Dallas Cowboys at Philadelphia Eagles
Cowboys: They got off to a quick start on Sunday against the Los Angeles Rams and never looked back. I always say what determines the outcome of their success is their offense and I always wonder which version of it will show up because they are known to be up and down. When they play how they did on Sunday, they are a tough out. That was the best I’ve seen Dak Prescott look all season long and the best I’ve seen him look since the Wild Card win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in January this year. He was in total control and they didn’t ask him to do too much or too little. It was just the right amount and he delivered as asked. Dak was 25 of 31 with 304 yards passing and four touchdown passes with one interception. There is the perfect amount of pass attempts right there for the Quarterback. That’s the issue I’ve had with the Dallas Cowboys since Dak has become the starting Quarterback. They want him to be like Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Joe Burrow and Justin Herbert which is being that Quarterback that can operate in shootouts and he’s just not that guy, plain and simple. He needs to have the running game working for him, that helps open up the passing lanes for him. When he throws the football over 30 times, that’s a recipe for a loss and he tends to press which leads to interceptions. I already know what this defense will do. They will come at opposing Quarterbacks with many different looks, pressures and stunts and they will also create turnovers. It’s rivalry week. Lincoln Financial Field, South Philadelphia. Who’s ready for it!
Eagles: They’ve won their last two games since their first loss of the season to the New York Jets a few weeks ago. I knew for a fact they would get a challenge from the Washington Commanders in week eight and for a second, I thought Washington was about to beat them because I’m not sure what it is, but they always seem to give the Philadelphia Eagles a run for their money. Remember, back in week four, the Commanders took them to overtime, but the Eagles were able to escape. At 7-1, they officially have the best record in the league as we speak, but it hasn’t been smooth sailing at all. I don’t think anyone expected them to be the team they were a year ago. Now, there’s more tape on Jalen Hurts and defenses know how to limit him. I understand they’ve escaped many of their games this year, but this is a good football team and I say that because the great teams will find a way to win in different ways. The shining point for them this year has been Arthur Juan Brown better known as A.J. Brown. He has been playing with a serious chip on his shoulder since the Tennessee Titans elected to trade him last season and if Tyreek Hill weren’t doing what he’s been doing this year, A.J. would be my favorite to win the Offensive Player of the Year award. He’s been on a tear and he is the best Wide Receiver in the National Football League not named Tyreek. You can see the trust Jalen has in his number one receiver and when you have that confidence in your best pass catchers, he will never hesitate to get him the ball. A.J. made history last week becoming the first receiver ever to gain 125 yards receiving in six consecutive games. Maybe as the season goes, they will continue to click. They return home Sunday for a rivalry game.
Cowboys X-Factor: CeeDee Lamb– Last week was the best game he’s had since becoming a pro. Now, can he do it again? CeeDee has been Dak’s top target in the passing attack this year. He caught a career high, 12 passes last weekend against the Rams and he will be facing an Eagles passing defense that hasn’t been the strongest this year. I expect McCarthy to dial up plays to get CeeDee the football early and often.
Eagles X-Factor: Haason Reddick– He is the Eagles best defensive player and in games such as this one, you always want your best players to be at their best. Haason has found new life since signing with the Philadelphia Eagles. The best word I can use to describe him is “Tweener”. He’s part Linebacker and part EDGE guy. Haason can do it all from rushing the passer, stopping the run and dropping back in coverage to pick up a Tight End or a Running Back. No matter the opponent, Haason gives it his all and he will get his.
Final Thoughts: This is the best rivalry in our league right now. There is so much history between these two and they are by far the two best teams in the NFC East. I also think of all the names who have played for these teams. Michael Irvin, Brian Dawkins, Emmitt Smith and Terrell Owens, who actually played for both teams. All those guys I just mentioned are Hall of Famers. The key matchup I’m watching in this game is the Lamb against this Eagles secondary in which CeeDee should have some success against because teams have been attacking this Philly secondary left and right. This will be a tough Offensive Line that the Cowboys will be facing in the Eagles. For Philly, knowing where Micah Parsons is at all times will always be key. You don’t keep up with him, he will destroy your entire offensive gameplan. Also, which Dak shows up? He can be so hit or miss. When he’s good, he’s locked in and the downfield passing attack is clicking on all cylinders and when he’s struggling, he’s all over the place and starts to press as I mentioned up top. Jalen Hurts has a lingering knee injury which is something to pay attention too. I’ll also be watching how this Dallas secondary tries to limit A.J. Brown. I like the Eagles to win this showdown at the Linc on Sunday.
Prediction: Eagles 29, Cowboys 24
