Philly Leader

The Philadelphia Eagles are preparing for their upcoming game against the Dallas Cowboys, marking the 131st meeting in a rivalry that began in 1960. The Eagles, with a current record of 6-2, have won four consecutive games and are closely trailing the Washington Commanders in the NFC East standings. Meanwhile, the Cowboys face challenges with three straight losses and an injured starting quarterback, Dak Prescott.

Despite the heightened emotions surrounding "Dallas Week," Eagles players and coaches maintain a focus on treating it as just another important divisional game. Right tackle Lane Johnson emphasized this mindset by stating, "We know it's a game in our division, but it's just another game. That's how you have to treat it."

As the NFL trade deadline passed without any moves from the Eagles, they remain committed to their current roster built since spring and refined through Training Camp. The team has faced various challenges throughout the season but continues to strive for success under new coordinators Vic Fangio and Kellen Moore.

Quarterback Jalen Hurts highlighted the significance of trust and continuity within the team: "Trust, continuity, these are words that I've said 1,000 times; those things are important. Those things are important for success."

The Eagles have dealt with several injuries impacting key players like wide receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith and left tackle Jordan Mailata. Despite these setbacks, players such as Fred Johnson have stepped up when needed. Johnson noted the team's readiness: "Everyone prepares to be a starter...there are no excuses, only expectation."

The upcoming match against Dallas is significant not only due to its historical context but also because of its implications for both teams' standings in the NFC East. With Prescott sidelined by injury, backup Cooper Rush is expected to start for Dallas.

This game begins a challenging stretch for Philadelphia as they face several tough opponents over coming weeks. As always in this unpredictable division where there hasn't been a repeat winner since 2004—all possibilities remain open.

"Division game—that always means something," reiterated Johnson about facing Dallas once more at AT&T Stadium—a venue where Philadelphia has struggled recently—emphasizing that victory requires exceptional performance every time out against familiar foes.

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