🔥 Cowboys vs. Eagles: Can Dallas Pull Off the Upset in Week 17? 🏈
The Dallas Cowboys (7-8) head into Lincoln Financial Field this Sunday for a fierce NFC East rivalry matchup against the division-leading Philadelphia Eagles (12-3). While the Eagles are gunning to secure the division title, the Cowboys are looking to spoil the party and finish their season on a high note.
Let’s dive into the key storylines and matchups for this highly anticipated clash!
📅 Game Details:
Matchup: Dallas Cowboys vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Date: Sunday, December 29, 2024
Time: 4:25 PM ET
Location: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA
TV: FOX
🔗 Key Storylines
Dallas Cowboys:
After a rough start, Dallas has won two straight games, showing resilience and grit. The team continues to rally around head coach Mike McCarthy, with standout performances from emerging stars like linebacker Micah Parsons and running back Rico Dowdle.
The Cowboys are playing their best football of the season and will come into this game with a chip on their shoulder after their Week 2 loss to the Eagles.
Philadelphia Eagles:
The Eagles stumbled last week against the Commanders, and more importantly, lost quarterback Jalen Hurts to a concussion. Backup Kenny Pickett is also banged up with a rib injury, leaving Philadelphia’s quarterback situation uncertain.
With the NFC East title and playoff seeding on the line, Philadelphia will look to bounce back. But facing a surging Cowboys defense won’t make it easy.
🔑 Keys to the Game: When the Cowboys Have the Ball
Dallas’ offense, led by backup quarterback Cooper Rush, has found its footing in recent weeks. While Rush isn’t flashy, he’s been efficient, and the Cowboys’ ground game, powered by Rico Dowdle, has helped sustain drives.
Rico Dowdle: Dowdle has emerged as a reliable force in the backfield, helping Dallas control the clock and keep opposing defenses honest.
Brandon Aubrey: The rookie kicker has been automatic from long distances, turning Cowboys drives into points whenever they cross the 40-yard line.
Offensive Line: Despite injuries, Dallas’ line has improved, allowing Rush time to make smart decisions and open lanes for Dowdle.
Philadelphia’s defense is strong against the run but has struggled with consistency. If the Cowboys can establish the ground game early, it will open up opportunities for Rush to connect with receivers like Brandin Cooks and Jake Ferguson.
🔒 Philadelphia’s Defensive Strengths
The Eagles boast a formidable defensive front, led by Haason Reddick and Josh Sweat, who will look to disrupt Dallas’ rhythm. However, their secondary has shown vulnerability at times, especially if the pass rush doesn’t get home.
Run Defense: Ranked 5th in the NFL, Philadelphia allows just 101.2 rushing yards per game. Stopping Dowdle will be their primary focus.
Pass Rush: With 52 sacks on the season, the Eagles lead the league in bringing pressure.
🔑 Keys to the Game: When the Eagles Have the Ball
Philadelphia’s offense revolves around its quarterback, but with Hurts likely sidelined, the Eagles will turn to backup Kenny Pickett—or potentially a third option if Pickett can’t go.
A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith: The Eagles’ dynamic receiving duo remains the biggest threat. Brown has been unstoppable this season, and Smith’s precise route running makes him a matchup nightmare.
Run Game: Without Hurts’ mobility, Philadelphia will lean heavily on running backs D’Andre Swift and Kenneth Gainwell to balance the offense.
Dallas’ defense, led by Micah Parsons, will need to capitalize on the Eagles’ uncertainty at quarterback and force turnovers to stay competitive.
🔒 Dallas’ Defensive X-Factor
The Cowboys’ defense has been the team’s backbone during their recent surge.
Micah Parsons: The All-Pro linebacker is a game-changer, with his ability to disrupt plays in the backfield and force turnovers.
DaRon Bland: Bland has stepped up as a reliable corner, providing key stops and even contributing on special teams.
Turnovers: Dallas has thrived on takeaways, with timely interceptions and fumble recoveries keeping them in games.
If the Cowboys can pressure Pickett or his backup and force mistakes, they’ll have a real shot at pulling off the upset.
📈 Odds & Prediction
Spread: Cowboys +7.5
Over/Under: 40
Prediction: Cowboys 20, Eagles 17
The Cowboys are playing with pride and momentum, while the Eagles are dealing with injuries at the most critical position. Look for Dallas to keep this one close and potentially steal a victory late, with Micah Parsons leading a spirited defensive effort.
🏈 Can the Cowboys spoil the Eagles’ playoff seeding, or will Philadelphia clinch the NFC East? Let us know your predictions in the comments!
#Cowboys #Eagles #MicahParsons #CooperRush #NFLWeek17 #NFCEastRivalry
🔔 Like, comment, and subscribe for more NFL coverage! Let’s FN Go! 🚀
Watch video Dallas Cowboys VS Philadelphia Eagles - Live Stream 📻 online, duration hours minute second in high quality that is uploaded to the channel Football Nation 01 January 1970. Share the link to the video on social media so that your subscribers and friends will also watch this video. This video clip has been viewed 39,898 times and liked it 419 visitors.