With the NFL season heating up, the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles are gearing up for a crucial Week 17 face-off on December 29, 2024. This matchup at Lincoln Financial Field isn’t just another game in their long-standing rivalry; it’s a key moment that could impact playoff spots in the NFC. Both teams have strong lineups and have been playing well lately, so fans are in for an exciting battle.
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys are heading into this game with a 7-8 record. Dak Prescott has been the key player for their offense, showing he can deliver when the pressure’s on. This season, he’s passed for more than 3,500 yards and racked up 25 touchdowns. He’s got a great connection with standout receiver CeeDee Lamb, who’s piled up over 1,200 receiving yards and is always a threat to go deep.
The Cowboys’ backfield just got a serious upgrade with running back Dalvin Cook joining the team. His skills in breaking tackles and picking up extra yards after contact really amps up their running game. On the defensive side, linebacker Micah Parsons is a standout, though the defense has had its ups and downs. Parsons, with his incredible speed and versatility, is the team’s top tackler and sack leader, so he’s definitely someone to keep an eye on.
Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles are rolling into this game with a solid 12-3 record, thanks to a well-rounded offense and a tough defense. Quarterback Jalen Hurts has really stepped up as one of the top dual-threat QBs in the league. This season, he’s passed for more than 3,800 yards and rushed for almost 1,000 yards, making him a real headache for defenses trying to stop him.
Wide receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith have played a huge role in the Eagles’ success. Brown tops the team with more than 1,300 receiving yards, and Smith is a dependable target all over the field. On the defensive side, cornerback Darius Slay Jr. is a key player, known for his coverage skills and ability to shut down the best receivers.
Betting Odds
As game day gets closer, the current betting lines show just how competitive this matchup is:
Spread: Eagles favored at -2.5
Total (Over/Under): 47 points
Moneyline Odds: Cowboys +120, Eagles -142
The predictive models show that the Eagles have about a 60% chance of winning, while the Cowboys are around 40%, based on a bunch of simulations for this matchup. This info indicates that both teams have a shot at victory, but playing at home could really tip the scales in favor of the Eagles.
Strategic Matchup Breakdown
Offensive Strategies
The Cowboys are probably going to focus on getting their run game going right off the bat with Dalvin Cook. This should help set up some play-action chances for Dak Prescott. By making good use of Cook’s abilities to keep the defense on their toes, they can set up some nice matchups for CeeDee Lamb down the field.
The Eagles are counting on Jalen Hurts to use his skills as both a passer and a runner to keep the defense on their toes. Look for them to draw up some plays specifically for Hurts to run, while also taking advantage of A.J. Brown’s height and speed to take advantage of any weaknesses in Dallas’s secondary.
Defensive Strategies
Dallas really needs to keep Jalen Hurts in check. They should concentrate on sticking to their coverage while also putting pressure on him to make quick throws or slip up. Micah Parsons is going to be crucial in this, as he aims to mess up plays whether it’s a pass or a run.
The Eagles have to keep the heat on Dak Prescott to throw him off his game. Darius Slay Jr. stepping up to cover CeeDee Lamb could be key in stopping those big plays from the Cowboys’ offense.
Sports Betting Ace’s Final Score Prediction: Cowboys 22 – 25 Eagles