Dallas Cowboys at Philadelphia Eagles: Week 2 Prediction

Dec 14, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles running back Darren Sproles (43) scores a touchdown in the third quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports

One of the many great rivalries stemming from the NFC East. Most believe it will either be the Philadelphia Eagles or Dallas Cowboys who emerge as division champions this season. So this early matchup is of huge importance.

Injury News

Randy Gregory out with bad ankle

The only notable injury news going into the game, aside from the long known Dez Bryant affair, is the situation regarding Cowboys rookie pass rusher Randy Gregory. He’s been dealing with a bad ankle most of the week and is expected to sit out the game. This could leave the Dallas pass rush in a difficult position.

Key Matchups

Kiko Alonso vs. Jason Witten

When healthy there may not be a better linebacker in coverage than Kiko Alonso. He proved that as a rookie in Denver and again in his first game with the Eagles. That’s good because he’s going to be one of the primary players assigned to somehow stopping Cowboys tight end and ageless wonder Jason Witten.

Jordan Matthews vs. Brandon Carr

After being posterized back in New York last season, Brandon Carr did a reasonably good job helping contain Odell Beckham Jr. in week 1. This time he will face a different challenge. Jordan Matthews is not known for speed but size, of which he’ll enjoy a considerable advantage in this matchup. After catching 10 passes last week, he’s certain to garner similar attention.

Fantasy Advice

Sit: Joseph Randle

As good as the Cowboys offensive line is, they weren’t enough to elevate Joseph Randle in his first game as starter. If they can’t do so at home, don’t expect them to get him going in Philadelphia against one of the best young defensive fronts in the league at stopping the run with Fletcher Cox and Co.

Start: Darren Sproles

Shane Vereen gave the Cowboys defense some problems in week 1 thanks to his versatility as a runner and pass catcher. If that’s the case then they are sure to have as many or more headaches trying to contain Darren Sproles who is a nightmare in that Chip Kelly scheme as he showed in Atlanta.

Prediction: Eagles win 34-27

Sam Bradford must feel all sorts of confident after his strong showing in Atlanta, and he’s going home where he won’t have to fight the crowd noise. Dallas won’t have Dez Bryant either, and that’s going to prove decisive here.

Next: 2016 NFL Mock Draft: Shocking Quarterback Moves

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