The Philadelphia Eagles (6-2) are set to clash with their NFC East rivals, the Dallas Cowboys (3-5), at AT&T Stadium this Sunday at 4:25 p.m. EST. With the Eagles riding high on a four-game winning streak, they have the chance to deliver a crushing blow to the Cowboys’ already struggling season. The stakes couldn’t be higher for Dallas, whose playoff hopes are hanging by a thread.
Eagles’ Momentum and Injury Status
The Eagles are in the midst of their best stretch of football in 2024. They’ve not only won four consecutive games but have done so with an impressive plus-4 turnover margin and a staggering plus-54 point differential. Their offense is firing on all cylinders, and they seem poised to capitalize on the Cowboys’ woes.
In terms of injuries, the Eagles have managed to keep their roster relatively intact. They had their full 53-man roster on the practice field this week, including key players like tight end Dallas Goedert and wide receiver A.J. Brown. This depth is crucial as they prepare to face a Cowboys team that has been plagued by injuries.
Cowboys’ Struggles and Injury Report
The Cowboys, on the other hand, have been reeling. They’ve lost three straight games, and the situation has worsened with starting quarterback Dak Prescott dealing with a potentially serious hamstring injury. The uncertainty surrounding Prescott’s availability casts a shadow over Dallas’s chances, as they look to backup quarterback Cooper Rush to step up in a critical matchup.
The Dallas injury report has been extensive this season, with star players like Micah Parsons and DaRon Bland missing significant time. Bland, who led the NFL in interceptions last season, has yet to play in 2024 due to a stress fracture injury sustained during training camp. His absence has left a significant hole in the Cowboys’ secondary, which has struggled to contain opposing offenses, currently ranking seventh in the NFL for yards allowed per game.
Injury Breakdown: Dallas Cowboys
- Out
- QB Dak Prescott (hamstring)
The Cowboys are bracing for the possibility of being without Prescott for an extended period. He is currently seeking opinions on how to best address a partial avulsion of the hamstring tendon. Until he is placed on injured reserve, the team’s fate rests heavily on Rush’s shoulders.
- DB Juanyeh Thomas (concussion)
Thomas suffered a concussion while making a tackle on special teams last week. His absence would be felt, especially in the special teams unit, as he has been a valuable contributor despite being an undrafted free agent find in 2023.
Questionable Players for the Cowboys
- CB Trevon Diggs (calf, illness)
Diggs, the Cowboys’ top cornerback, was limited in practice this week due to a calf issue but was downgraded to a DNP on Friday and is now questionable for Sunday. The team is being cautious, especially after running back Rico Dowdle was a late scratch due to illness last week.
- LT Tyler Guyton (neck, shoulder)
Guyton has been battling shoulder ailments, but it’s the neck issue that has slowed him in practice this week. If he can’t go, the Cowboys may need to rely on second-year player Asim Richards or even shift guard Tyler Smith to left tackle.
Key Players Returning for the Cowboys
Despite the injury woes, there is a glimmer of hope for the Cowboys. Micah Parsons returned to practice this week and is expected to be on the field against the Eagles. His presence is vital for a defense that has struggled to stop the run and ranks 24th in sacks. Parsons, who has not played since September, could provide the spark the Cowboys desperately need.
- LB Eric Kendricks (shoulder)
Kendricks has had a challenging first season with the Cowboys, but he appears to be trending in the right direction after sitting out Wednesday’s practice. If he can’t play, special teamer Buddy Johnson may need to step up.
Injury Breakdown: Philadelphia Eagles
- Questionable
- LB Ben VanSumeren (concussion)
VanSumeren is the only Eagles player on the injury report, as he continues to navigate the NFL’s concussion protocol. However, he returned to full practice on Friday, which opens the door for his potential availability on Sunday. His versatility as a backup linebacker and special teams player will be crucial.
On a positive note, key players like Goedert, Brown, Smith, quarterback Jalen Hurts, and pass rusher Nolan Smith have all avoided injury designations this week, allowing the Eagles to field their strongest lineup possible.
Looking Ahead: A Crucial Matchup
As the Eagles prepare to face the Cowboys, the stakes are high. Can the Eagles continue their winning streak and solidify their position in the NFC East? Or will the Cowboys find a way to rally and keep their season alive? With both teams facing their unique challenges, this matchup promises to be an exciting showdown filled with drama and intensity.
The NFL is all about moments like these, where every play counts and every decision could change the course of a season. Fans will not want to miss this electrifying clash between two storied rivals.
