Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) cheers on his team during warm ups before the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Dec. 26, 2021. (AP Photo/Ron Jenkins)
Eagles And Cowboys – Must Win For Both Teams
The rivalry returns to prime time on Monday Night Football as the Dallas Cowboys head to Lincoln Financial Field to face the Philadelphia Eagles on ABC and ESPN. Both NFC East foes enter the Week 7 matchup sitting at 2-4, desperate for a division victory to stay within range of the first-place New York Giants. Kickoff is set for 8:15 p.m. ET, with Dallas entering as a 4.5-point road favorite.
Philadelphia Battles Major Injury Crisis at Quarterback
The story of the game for Philadelphia centers around a decimated depth chart. Starting quarterback Jalen Hurts and star wideout DeVonta Smith are both sidelined due to injuries, forcing backup quarterback Tanner McKee into the starting role. Additionally, star running back Saquon Barkley is listed as questionable while nursing a hamstring injury. McKee and the offense will rely heavily on head coach Nick Sirianni’s run scheme to control tempo.
Prescott and Lamb Look to Jumpstart Dallas Offense
Dallas QB Dak Prescott leads an explosive aerial attack, averaging over 273 passing yards per game behind top targets CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens. However, the Cowboys are seeking answers after back-to-back sluggish offensive performances. To pull away on the road, play-caller Brian Schottenheimer will need a balanced effort featuring running back Javonte Williams to keep Philadelphia’s secondary honest.
Defensive Execution and Key Matchups to Watch
Philadelphia’s defense enters the night aiming to exploit a vulnerable Dallas run defense that surrenders an average of 149.8 rushing yards per game. Conversely, the Eagles secondary has surrendered 1,467 passing yards on the year, creating a golden opportunity for Prescott to hit downfield plays. With penalties and turnovers plaguing both squads during recent slides, winning the line of scrimmage and minimizing self-inflicted mistakes will decide who walks away with a vital division win.
