Despite winning just five of their 14 NFL games this season, Mike McCarthy’s Dallas Cowboys are second in the NFC East. They are hot on the trail of the Washington Football Team and remain in the mix to win their division.
This is exactly why Sunday’s clash against Philadelphia Eagles will be a heated affair for both teams involved. Here’s a detailed look at both teams, along with injury updates and Week 16 Game Day predictions.
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Dallas Cowboys still have an outside shot at making the playoffs
Division Rival. Must Win. This Sunday.#PHIvsDAL | @pepsi | #DallasCowboys pic.twitter.com/cXJh29e5q4
— Dallas Cowboys (@dallascowboys) December 26, 2020
After a dip in form following a major injury to franchise quarterback Dak Prescott, coach McCarthy’s boys have found some form in recent weeks. The NFC East big boys are on a two-game winning streak at the moment. Their back-to-back wins over Cincinnati Bengals and the San Francisco 49ers have put them in prime position to make the playoffs, battling against all odds.
The Cowboys will be without the likes of Xavier Woods, Leighton Vander Esch and Rashard Robinson this weekend. However, star running back Ezekiel Elliott could return to the starting line-up. Backup RB Tony Pollard impressed against the 49ers, scoring two rushing touchdowns and will most likely feature once again. But the onus will remain on veteran NFL quarterback Andy Dalton to lead his team to a much-needed win against their divisional rivals.
Jalen Hurts expected to start for Philadelphia Eagles in Week 16
Foot on the gas.#FlyEaglesFly pic.twitter.com/SYpwtD9aE8
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) December 25, 2020
Coach Doug Pederson-led Philadelphia Eagles have had a season to forget in 2020. They are on a 4-9-1 record heading into Week 16. After beating New Orleans Saints in Week 14, the Eagles succumbed to 33-26 loss at the hands of the Arizona Cardinals last weekend. A major positive from these two games is the emergence of rookie Jalen Hurts.
The former University of Oklahoma star was impressive against the Cardinals, throwing for 338 yards with three passing touchdowns to his name. He will be crucial for the Eagles if they want to beat their rivals and move ahead in the race for the NFC East title. But the major emphasis will remain on the Philly defense Marcus Epps, Alex Singleton and Jalen Mills.
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NFL Preview: Dallas Cowboys vs Philadelphia Eagles Team Updates
Dallas – Out
LB Leighton Vander Esch – Ankle
S Xavier Woods – Ribs
DT Antwaun Woods – Ankle
CB Rashard Robinson – Knee
Questionable
RB Ezekiel Elliott – Calf
TE Blake Bell – Illness
Philadelphia – Out
LB Duke Riley – Bicep
TE Richard Rodgers – Ankle
CB Kevon Seymour – Knee
DE Josh Sweat – Wrist
Questionable
DE Derek Barnett – Calf
DT Fletcher Cox – Neck
P Cameron Johnston – Concussion
Cowboys vs Eagles Prediction
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Dallas Cowboys 33 – 28 Philadelphia Eagles
Based on their overall team displays over the last two weeks, we reckon ‘America’s team’ is going to walk away with a win on Sunday. They remain in contention for a playoff spot this season. Coach McCarthy is well aware of the stakes involved in Week 16.
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With rookie Jalen Hurts still taking some time to get used to the big league, this could be the perfect opportunity for the Cowboys to upstage their rivals. Regardless, this is one game you just cannot afford to miss.
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