The Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles are set to clash in a high-stakes NFL matchup this Sunday, December 29, 2024, at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, PA. The game kicks off at 1:00 pm ET and will be broadcast on FOX. With the Cowboys fighting for pride and the Eagles aiming to maintain their dominance, this game promises to be a thrilling encounter for fans and bettors alike.
Opening Odds at USA Sportsbooks
The betting lines are buzzing with excitement as the Cowboys enter the game as 8.5-point underdogs against the Eagles, according to DraftKings, Bet365, and BetMGM. The over/under is set at 41 points, with BetMGM offering a slight variation at 41.5 points. These odds reflect the current form and expectations surrounding both teams, setting the stage for an intriguing betting landscape.
Season Record
The Cowboys have had a rollercoaster season, standing at 7-8 and occupying the third spot in the NFC East. Meanwhile, the Eagles have soared high with a 12-3 record, leading the NFC East and showcasing one of the best performances in the NFL this season. This contrast in records highlights the different trajectories both teams have experienced, adding another layer of intrigue to this matchup.
Recent Form
The Cowboys are coming off a narrow victory against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, winning 26-24 at home. Cooper Rush led the charge with 292 passing yards and a touchdown, while CeeDee Lamb shone with 105 receiving yards. On the other hand, the Eagles faced a setback, losing to the Washington Commanders 36-33. Jalen Hurts left the game early due to injury, and Kenny Pickett stepped in, completing 14 of 24 passes for 143 yards. Saquon Barkley was a standout performer with 150 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
Dallas Cowboys vs Philadelphia Eagles Preview and Analysis
The Cowboys are looking to finish the season strong, boasting a 3-1 record in divisional games and a respectable 5-2 on the road. Despite being out of playoff contention, their recent form suggests they could pose a significant challenge to the Eagles. Philadelphia, despite their impressive record, faces uncertainty with Jalen Hurts’ injury. Kenny Pickett’s performance will be crucial, especially with the Eagles’ offense looking flat in their last outing. The Eagles have already secured a playoff spot, which might influence their approach to this game.
Cowboys vs Eagles Prediction
The prediction for this game leans towards a closely contested battle. The Cowboys have shown resilience on the road and could cover the 8.5-point spread, especially if the Eagles’ key players remain sidelined. While the Eagles are favored to win, the Cowboys’ recent performances suggest they won’t go down without a fight. Our prediction for this thrilling encounter is Eagles 27, Cowboys 24. Bettors should consider the Cowboys’ ability to cover the spread as a viable option.
NFL Betting Trends
The Cowboys have been impressive against the spread (ATS) in specific scenarios, boasting a 10-2 ATS record in games with totals between 35.5 and 42 points. They also excel in divisional matchups with a 10-5 ATS record. Conversely, the Eagles have struggled as home favorites, with a 2-7 ATS record when favored by 7.5 to 14 points. These trends provide valuable insights for bettors looking to make informed decisions.
Key Injuries
Injuries could play a pivotal role in this matchup. The Cowboys have several players sidelined, including J. Lewis (CB), E. Kendricks (MLB), and C. Lamb (WR). The Eagles are also dealing with injuries, with Jalen Hurts (QB) and Saquon Barkley (RB) among those affected. These absences could significantly impact team dynamics and performance on game day.
Notable Quotes
Dallas Cowboys’ head coach Mike McCarthy emphasized the team’s recent form, stating, “We’re playing really dang good football these past four, five weeks. Let’s grind this thing out.” Meanwhile, Saquon Barkley of the Eagles acknowledged their shortcomings, saying, “We didn’t do enough. We left a lot of plays out there, including myself.” These quotes reflect the mindset and determination of both teams heading into this crucial game.
Starting Lineups
The Cowboys’ starting lineup features key players like Cooper Rush at QB, CeeDee Lamb at WR, and Rico Dowdle at RB. For the Eagles, Kenny Pickett will start at QB, with A.J. Brown and Saquon Barkley leading the receiving and rushing departments, respectively. These lineups highlight the talent and potential impact players for each team.
Statistical Leaders
Dallas Cowboys’ statistical leaders include Dak Prescott with 1,978 passing yards, Rico Dowdle with 903 rushing yards, and CeeDee Lamb with 1,194 receiving yards. For the Eagles, Jalen Hurts has thrown for 2,903 yards, Saquon Barkley has rushed for 1,838 yards, and A.J. Brown has 1,043 receiving yards. These stats underscore the key contributors for both teams this season.
As the Cowboys and Eagles prepare to face off, fans and bettors alike are in for an exciting showdown. With playoff implications and pride on the line, this game promises to deliver drama, excitement, and plenty of action.
