What to watch for, bold predictions for Eagles vs. Cowboys

All the need-to-know information for this week’s matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles.

What to watch for

Can the Cowboys continue to make the explosive play on offense? Through two games, the Cowboys have 35 plays of 10 or more yards, the third-most in the NFL. But the Eagles’ defense has not allowed many big plays in its first two games, with just 19 against going for 10 yards or more, which is the third-fewest,” wrote Todd Archer “It’s also worth noting that Cowboys QB Dak Prescott has seven interceptions in eight games against the Eagles, his most against any opponent.”

The Cowboys enter the game with a top ten offense in both the run and the passing game. They’re ranked sixth passing the ball thanks to the return of Prescott. And in the run, they are up to seventh; despite all the commotion behind the lack of a rushing attack against the Buccaneers. The Eagles on the other hand have successfully defended the big play ability. Their defense is ranked fourth in the NFL allowing just 283 yards per game. In the passing game is where their defense accel allowing 162.5; good for third.

Bold predictions

“Dallas running back Tony Pollard will have more than 150 total yards. That’s well within the realm of possibility after he rushed for 109 yards and a touchdown with 31 receiving yards last week against the Chargers,” said Tim McManus. “The Eagles’ zone-based scheme forces the opponent to methodically work its way down the field. There are yards to be had in the run game and underneath in the pass game, and Pollard will take advantage.”

A lot of noise has been made in the media about Elliot’s play over the two weeks. In Week 2 against the Chargers, Elliott had 16 attempts, 71 yards, and a touchdown. However, fellow running back Tony Pollard had a better performance against the Chargers, rushing for 109 yards and a touchdown on 13 carries.  Pollard led the way in Dallas’ win in Los Angeles averaging 8.4 yards per carry; four yards more than the incumbent starter Elliott. Which could be the reason ESPN believes Pollard will have the better performance. But in general, for the Cowboys, both backs could have a field day against the Eagles’ run defense. If their defense has one weakness it is trying to slow down their opponent’s rushing attack.

The Cowboys face NFC East rival Philadelphia at 8:15 p.m. ET on Monday. The Dallas Cowboys are favored but 4 points in this game.