Thanksgiving Football: Philadelphia Eagles at Dallas Cowboys
By Erik Lambert
One of the great rivalries in NFL history takes place on Thanksgiving football day. Who triumphs between the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles?
Subplots
Shoe is on the other foot for Cowboys in rematch
A lot of things about the matchup are familiar. Dallas is looking for control of the division against Philly. They are playing at home field. However there is one key difference. This time it’s the Eagles who have to play their backup quarterback. Last year Tony Romo was down and Kyle Orton was in. Romo is healthy now behind a stout offensive line while Mark Sanchez has done a fair job of keeping things on track in Philadelphia.
Can he succeed where Orton failed for the Cowboys?
Key Matchup
DeMarco Murray against the Eagles front
The key for beating the Cowboys remains the same. Who can stop DeMarco Murray? Those that have, or at least slowed him down came away victorious. The Eagles front has dealt with some tough injuries in 2014 but have managed to still play reasonably well against the run. Murray will be by far their biggest test of the season.
Fantasy Players To Watch
Jason Witten – TE
The linebacker and safety positions on the Philadelphia Eagles defense are either riddled with injuries or just not adequate in terms of talent. Either way, that spells a big afternoon for Cowboys tight end Jason Witten. He hasn’t been the featured player on offense like in the past but he’s due for a big performance and has been getting more looks lately.
Jeremy Maclin – WR
A solid pass rush has covered up how mediocre the Dallas Cowboys pass defense is. Their corners aren’t all that great and continue to struggle when the line can’t get to the quarterback quickly. If the Eagles can keep Sanchez upright, wide receiver Jeremy Maclin, with his route running ability should be in store for nice afternoon what with LeSean McCoy getting lots of attention.
Pick: PHI 24, DAL 34