Rapid fire, quick hit thoughts as we roll through a last minute preview of Cowboys week:
Turnovers, turnovers, turnovers. Winning the turnover battle is arguable the most important single stat for victory in any NFL game, and I think it's even more important against this Dallas team. The Cowboys are undefeated this year in game in which they win or tie in turnovers, and they've lost the two games in which they've lost the turnover battle.
Establish the run. This has proven to be important for the Eagles in general, but I think it will matter more than usual in this game. Dallas' pass rush has been good as always, and the Eagles OL has had some uncharacteristic struggles in pass pro over the last few weeks. Part of establishing the run will need to be Hurts' running, both scrambling and on designed QB runs. If this game turns into a pass-heavy shootout, I think Philly loses.
Bend, don't break on defense. The Cowboys' pass catchers have an edge on our corners, who have struggled this year. I think Dallas will have some success in the intermediate passing game, and we'll likely have to live with some 15-20 yard chunk plays. The goal should be to completely avoid the long TD pass and force Dallas to have success in the red zone, where Philly's strong run D, killer pass rush and veteran-heavy secondary will have the edge.
This is unquestionably a winnable game but just as unquestionably will be a real challenge. I don't look for a blowout, no matter what happens. This has the feel of a game that will come down to high-leverage situations (red zone, turnovers, 4th down, etc.). Philly generally does well against Dallas in those regards but will need a clean game from Jalen and the coaches to do it. It seems like one of the matchups where the winner will be short in the box score but will win on the scoreboard. FLY EAGLES FLY!
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