The NFL is BACK as it kicks off its 2025 season with a highly anticipated NFC East showdown. The Philadelphia Eagles host the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday night at Lincoln Financial Field. Last season the Eagles dominated this matchup on both sides of the ball and with Parsons gone, most fans anticipate the same.
The Eagles enter the season with a target on their backs as defending Super Bowl champions. They return a core of elite players, led by quarterback Jalen Hurts and running back Saquon Barkley. Hurts will look to connect with star receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith while relying on a strong running game.
Philadelphia’s offense has the versatility to attack defenses in multiple ways, making them difficult to contain. On the defensive side, the Eagles remain a top unit. Last season, they ranked 2nd in the league in scoring average allowing 17.9, allowing the fewest 1st downs and passing yards per game. I expect them to bring that same intensity into the new season.
Dallas, meanwhile, is aiming to rebound after a disappointing 7-10 record last year. Their offense sputtered, ranking 21st in scoring just 20.6 per game, ranking 2nd to last in red zone efficiency. Cowboys face key personnel changes, including the departure of standout linebacker Micah Parsons, which could weaken their pass rush and overall defensive effectiveness.
Questions also remain about quarterback Dak Prescott’s consistency and whether the supporting cast on offense can step up in critical situations. Adding George Pickens can ignite this passing offense, but can he really be trusted for an entire season? Despite these challenges, the Cowboys have shown resilience in the past, particularly in close divisional games, we will see what they are made of under a new coaching staff.
Philadelphia opens the season as 7 to 7.5 point favorites, showing the books respecting what they did last season and the Cowboys’ offensive and defensive concerns. The Eagles have a history of performing exceptionally well at home, and with Dallas dealing with uncertainty on defense, the spread appears attainable over the course of four quarters.
Philadelphia’s offensive versatility, and ability to wear a team down with the running game can put the Eagles in a position to open this game up. If their defense stays disciplined and opportunistic we could see a repeat of last season.
The Cowboys scored just 7 and 6 in their two games, losing by a combined 62 points! Until I see otherwise from this Cowboys team, especially under a new head coach, and new defensive coordinator, I will ride with the champs.
DeVonta Smith has consistently been a top target, especially in home games. He is one of the league’s top second WR’s and has a chance for another great year. Last season, he exceeded 49.5 receiving yards in his first 4 games, six of his first seven games and seven of his first nine home games.
Head-to-head, he has cashed this line in three of his last four games against the Cowboys. The Cowboys’ pass defense, which ranked 21st in receiving yards allowed last season, presents an opportunity for Smith to thrive.
They are led by new defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus and it will take them time to gel. Given Smith’s ability to find soft spots in coverage and create separation, he is well-positioned to surpass this receiving yards prop. Barkley and Hurts should establish the running game, allowing shots for Smith and company!
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