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NFL Week Eight Preview: Philadelphia Eagles vs. Dallas Cowboys

By Eric Robinson

Oct 9, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz (11) prepares to snap the ball before the game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Lions won 24-23. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 9, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz (11) prepares to snap the ball before the game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Lions won 24-23. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 25, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant (88) talks with cornerback Morris Claiborne (24) prior to the game against the Chicago Bears at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 25, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant (88) talks with cornerback Morris Claiborne (24) prior to the game against the Chicago Bears at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /

Expectations for both teams may not have parlayed with “first place in the division” prior to the season but here they are. A rivalry that has been very entertaining over the years with the added achievement of being the best in the division at this point.

Everyone knows that the bread-and-butter for the Cowboys on offense is simple: Feed Elliott behind arguably the best offensive line in the game until the opposing defense begs for mercy. The game plan for many teams is to limit the run game of Dallas but it’s a task that is definitely easier said than done.

Both defenses are reliable against the run and the Eagles must make plays on defense to limit the Cowboys from controlling the clock and having their way on offense. It will also serve them well to force Prescott into making a mistake or two, which has been rarely seen this season.

The return of Bryant will be considerable although he may not have a true Dez-like impact. His presence adds a playmaker on the field and takes attention away from Elliott and the run game.

Wentz and the Eagles offense must make their own share of plays and it would be beneficial for them to control the clock as well. Even a top ten rushing defense in Dallas.

Ultimately, Prescott and the Cowboys have the necessary pieces to pull off the win and their chances increase as long as Prescott takes real good care of the football. This is easily the best offensive line that the Eagles have played and probably will play this entire season. An added element of an eager Bryant along with the run game is enough to edge Dallas over an Eagles team that has struggled a little the past two games on offense.

Prediction: Dallas, 26-20 

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