Eagles vs Cowboys SNF: The Epitome of a Must Win
Just Win!
The lone positive after the Vikings dominated Eagles was that Dallas lost to the Jets, cue the laughter. That’s three losses in a row for Dallas. Nevertheless, the Eagles should not sleep on this game for two reasons: if they win, they control their density for the rest of the season, and the win could spark a streak. To secure the win, the Eagles need to execute in these three areas.
Challenge the Cowboys’ receivers
Although it’s against Jim Schwartz’s philosophy, press coverage by the corners should be an option against the Cowboys. Both Amari Cooper and Randall Cobb are questionable for Sunday, Amari with a quad injury, and Cobb with a back. Therefore, the Eagles cornerbacks, especially with Jalen Mills back, need to test their health. Moreover, Amari Cooper must not be left untouched: he is undoubtedly an elite route runner.
If the Eagles bring the physicality in the secondary, it will rattle Dak Prescott and disrupt his timing, allowing the pass rush to get upfield. Dak can be exploited. If the defensive line gets anywhere in the vicinity of Dak, he flusters and makes errand throws. Six weeks into the season, he has six picks.
Stop the Run, Stop the Run, Stop the Run
This is a no brainer. Everyone knows that offense runs through Zeke. Sure, Amari Cooper, Randall Cobb, and Michael Gallup, who’s an underrated deep threat, are more than respectable, but Dallas’ bread and butter is in the run game. It lets their defense rest, gives them early leads, and allows their pass rush tee off on the quarterback: hiding their weakness against the run. More importantly, the run game protects Dak’s flaws and empowers his strength. Despite being an Eagles fan, Dak Prescott is excellent in the play-action passing game. It allows him to move outside the pocket, freeze the linebackers, and stifle the pass rush.
On the other hand, in obvious passing situations, he’s vulnerable. In the two games (Jets and Saints) where Ezekiel Elliott averaged less than four yards a carry, the “Dak Attack” has zero touchdowns and one interception, and the Cowboys offense averaged 16 points per game. Jason Garrett’s offense runs through Zeke. Luckily for the Eagles, Fletcher Cox and crew are more than capable.
Run early and often
Previously mentioned, the running game is the Cowboys’ weakness defensively. Although their linebackers, especially against three-step drops, and d-line are solid, this team can be run over. Opponents average 4.2 yards per attempt against the Cowboys, and this includes their cupcake opening schedule. Their first three games were against the Redskins, who are without Trent Williams, the Dolphins who are inept everywhere, and the Giants, who have an improved O-line and Saquon, but no other weapons. The Eagles should take a page of the Vikings book, and use the aggressiveness of the Cowboys front-four against them. Traps, play-action, and fake-screens, the entire playbook is open for Doug. This match is screaming Jordan Howard and Miles Sanders.
Final thoughts
This game, this team, and this season is on the line at Jerry’s World. The Eagles elite run defense, physicality, and resilience will be tested. On Monday morning, the Eagles will be either contenders or pretenders. The city of Philadelphia is watching: show no mercy.
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Featured photo from Eric Deeran